Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate Certification: Complete Guide 2025
Exam Code: AZ-104
The Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate certification validates skills in implementing, managing, and monitoring an organization's Microsoft Azure environment, including virtual networks, storage, compute, identity, security, and governance.
Exam Details
Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate Resources
Everything you need to prepare for and pass your exam
Practice Exam
Full-length Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate practice test
Exam Simulator
Realistic exam simulation experience
Mock Exam
Full-length timed mock exam
Study Guide
Comprehensive study materials
Exam Objectives
Official exam domains and topics
Free Practice Test
Free sample questions to try
Exam Domains & Topics
Master these 5 domains to pass your exam
Manage Azure identities and governance
of exam
Implement and manage storage
of exam
Deploy and manage Azure compute resources
of exam
Implement and manage virtual networking
of exam
Monitor and maintain Azure resources
of exam
Who Should Take This Exam?
This certification is ideal for the following professionals
- IT professionals with 6+ months of hands-on experience administering Azure
- System administrators looking to transition to cloud infrastructure
- Those responsible for implementing, monitoring, and maintaining Azure solutions
- Professionals seeking to validate their Azure administration skills
Recommended Study Timeline
Plan your preparation effectively
8-12 weeks
Recommended study duration
Weeks 1-2: Foundation
Review exam objectives & core concepts
Weeks 3-6: Deep Dive
Study each domain with hands-on practice
Weeks 7-8: Practice & Review
Take practice exams & focus on weak areas
Practice by Difficulty
Choose your challenge level
Practice Question Banks
Extensive question collections for thorough preparation
2025 Exam Resources
Latest materials updated for the current exam version
Career Opportunities
Related Job Titles
$95,000-$125,000
Average Annual Salary
Prerequisites
6+ months of hands-on experience administering Azure Understanding of core Azure services, workloads, security, and governance Experience with PowerShell, Azure CLI, Azure Portal, and ARM templates Familiarity with operating systems, networking, servers, and virtualization
Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate FAQs
Common questions about the AZ-104 certification exam
The Azure Administrator Associate certification validates your expertise in implementing, managing, and monitoring an organization's Microsoft Azure environment. It demonstrates proficiency in managing Azure identities, governance, storage, compute resources, and virtual networks. This intermediate-level certification is ideal for administrators responsible for day-to-day Azure infrastructure management.
The AZ-104 exam is considered intermediate difficulty and requires hands-on experience with Azure administration. It includes scenario-based questions, case studies, and performance-based tasks. Most candidates find it challenging but achievable with 6+ months of practical Azure experience and dedicated study. The exam tests both theoretical knowledge and practical application of Azure administration skills.
Azure Administrators with this certification typically earn between $95,000 and $125,000 annually in the United States, with variations based on experience, location, and organization size. Entry-level positions start around $75,000, while experienced administrators in major tech hubs can earn $140,000 or more. The certification often leads to 10-15% salary increases for existing professionals.
The certification is valid for one year from the date you earn it. Microsoft requires annual renewal to maintain active status, which involves passing a free online renewal assessment. This ensures certified professionals stay current with Azure's rapidly evolving features and best practices.
While there are no formal prerequisites, Microsoft recommends at least 6 months of hands-on experience administering Azure, along with strong understanding of core Azure services, workloads, security, and governance. Familiarity with PowerShell, Azure CLI, ARM templates, and the Azure Portal is essential. Many candidates also complete the Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) certification first.
About the Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate Certification
The Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104) is a associate-level certification offered by Microsoft Azure. This certification validates your expertise in cloud computing and is recognized globally by employers seeking qualified professionals.
Why Get Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate Certified?
- Career Advancement: Certified professionals earn an average of $95,000-$125,000 per year
- Industry Recognition: Microsoft Azure certifications are respected worldwide
- Skill Validation: Demonstrate your expertise to employers and clients
How to Prepare for AZ-104
Hydranode offers comprehensive preparation materials including practice exams, study guides, and free practice tests to help you pass on your first attempt.