Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals: Complete Guide 2026
AZ-900
Azure Fundamentals validates foundational knowledge of cloud services and how those services are provided with Microsoft Azure, ideal for individuals beginning their cloud journey.
Exam Details
Resources
Everything you need to pass
Comprehensive preparation materials for your Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals exam
Exam Content
Exam Domains & Topics
Master these 4 domains to pass your exam
Describe Cloud Concepts
Describe Azure Architecture and Services
Describe Azure Management and Governance
Describe Azure Security and Compliance
Who Should Take This Exam?
- Individuals new to cloud computing and Azure services
- IT professionals transitioning to cloud technologies
- Business stakeholders evaluating Azure for their organization
- Students and career changers entering the IT field
Study Timeline
4-6 weeks
Recommended duration
Foundation · Weeks 1-2
Review exam objectives & core concepts
Deep Dive · Weeks 3-6
Study each domain with hands-on labs
Practice & Review · Weeks 7-8
Take practice exams & target weak areas
Study Guide
AZ-900 Study Plan
The Azure Fundamentals certification is an entry-level credential that validates foundational knowledge of cloud services and how those services are provided with Microsoft Azure. This certification is ideal for individuals beginning their cloud journey and demonstrates understanding of cloud concepts, Azure services, workloads, security, privacy, pricing, and support.
Week 1
Cloud Concepts and Azure Basics
Build foundational understanding of cloud computing and Azure's global infrastructure
- Complete the Cloud Concepts learning path
- Understand cloud service models and deployment types
- Learn Azure regions, availability zones, and resource groups
- Create free Azure account and explore the portal
Week 2
Azure Core Services - Compute, Networking, and Storage
Deep dive into Azure's primary service offerings
- Learn all compute service options and use cases
- Understand networking fundamentals including VNets and VPN Gateway
- Master storage account types and tiers
- Explore database service options
- Create a Virtual Machine and storage account in the portal
Week 3
Azure Management, Governance, and Monitoring
Learn how to manage, monitor, and govern Azure resources
- Master cost management tools (Pricing Calculator, TCO Calculator, Cost Management)
- Understand Azure Policy, Blueprints, and resource locks
- Learn management tools: Portal, CLI, PowerShell, Cloud Shell
- Explore Azure Monitor and Service Health
- Practice with Pricing Calculator scenarios
Week 4
Security, Compliance, and Exam Preparation
Complete security topics and consolidate knowledge with practice exams
- Understand Azure security services and defense in depth
- Learn about compliance resources and Trust Center
- Review all four exam domains
- Take multiple practice exams and identify weak areas
- Create summary notes and flashcards for key concepts
Study tips
Hands-On Practice
- Create a free Azure account immediately and explore the portal - familiarity with the interface helps on the exam
- Complete all hands-on labs in Microsoft Learn modules, even though the exam is theoretical
- Use the Azure Pricing Calculator regularly to understand cost optimization scenarios
- Practice navigating between different resource types in the portal to understand relationships
- Set up and delete resources multiple times to understand the creation process
Understanding Over Memorization
- Focus on WHEN to use each service rather than technical configuration details
- Understand the differences between similar services (e.g., Blob vs File Storage, VMs vs App Service)
- Learn the shared responsibility model thoroughly - many questions test this concept
- Grasp the 'why' behind cloud concepts like elasticity and high availability with business examples
- Create comparison tables for IaaS vs PaaS vs SaaS with real-world examples
Exam-Specific Strategies
- The exam includes multiple choice, drag-and-drop, and case study questions - practice all formats
- You cannot return to case study sections once submitted, so take your time on those
- Many questions test your knowledge of which service to recommend for specific scenarios
- Understand Azure's global infrastructure (regions, availability zones) as this appears frequently
- Know the purpose of management tools (Portal, CLI, PowerShell, CloudShell) and when each is used
- Study the cost management tools in detail - Pricing Calculator, TCO Calculator, Cost Management, and Azure Advisor
Microsoft Learn Mastery
- Complete all three official Microsoft Learn paths - they're free and comprehensive
- Use the built-in sandbox environments in Learn modules for risk-free experimentation
- Take notes on the knowledge checks at the end of each module - similar questions appear on the exam
- Review the summary sections of each module as they highlight key concepts
- The Learn platform tracks your progress - aim for 100% completion of AZ-900 paths
Practice Test Approach
- Take the official Microsoft practice assessment first to identify knowledge gaps
- Use practice tests to learn, not just to score - review all explanations thoroughly
- Retake practice exams until you consistently score above 85%
- Focus extra study time on domains where you score lowest
- Practice under timed conditions to prepare for the 85-minute exam window
- If you see unfamiliar terms in practice tests, research them immediately in official documentation
Concept Mapping
- Create a mind map of all Azure services organized by category (compute, storage, networking, database)
- Make flashcards for key terms, especially acronyms (RBAC, NSG, ARM, VNet, TCO)
- Build a comparison matrix for compute options showing when to use each
- Document the layers of defense in depth security with specific Azure services at each layer
- Create a visual diagram of Azure hierarchy: Management Groups > Subscriptions > Resource Groups > Resources
Time Management
- For a 2-week intensive study plan, dedicate 3-4 hours daily to studying
- For a 4-week relaxed plan, 1-2 hours daily is sufficient for this foundational exam
- Prioritize domains by weight: 35% on Azure Services, 30% on Management/Governance, 25% on Cloud Concepts, 10% on Security
- Schedule your exam 3-4 weeks out to create accountability and motivation
- Do a final review session 2-3 days before the exam, not the night before
Exam day checklist
- Arrive 15 minutes early if testing at a center, or start your online check-in 30 minutes before your scheduled time
- Read each question carefully - Microsoft exams often include 'all that apply' questions requiring multiple selections
- Flag difficult questions for review rather than getting stuck - you can return to them except for case studies
- For case study sections, read the scenario thoroughly as all questions in that section relate to it
- Remember you cannot go back to case study sections once you proceed, so double-check all answers before continuing
- Eliminate obviously wrong answers first, then choose between remaining options
- If you're unsure, apply the shared responsibility model or think about which Azure service is purpose-built for that scenario
- Trust your preparation - your first instinct is often correct, don't second-guess excessively
- Manage your time: 85 minutes for 40-60 questions means roughly 1.5-2 minutes per question
- Stay calm if you encounter unfamiliar topics - not every question counts toward your score (some are unscored pilot questions)
- Review all flagged questions if time permits, but don't change answers unless you're confident you made a mistake
- The passing score is 700/1000, which typically means you need to answer correctly about 70% of scored questions
Career
Career Opportunities
Roles and salary potential for Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals certified professionals
Related Job Titles
$85,000
Average Annual Salary
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Prerequisites
No formal prerequisites required Basic understanding of technology concepts recommended Familiarity with general IT concepts is helpful but not required
Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals FAQs
Common questions about the AZ-900 certification exam
The Azure Fundamentals certification (AZ-900) is an entry-level credential that validates foundational knowledge of cloud concepts and Azure services. It's designed for individuals new to cloud computing and demonstrates understanding of core Azure services, pricing, support, and the fundamentals of cloud security, privacy, compliance, and trust.
The AZ-900 exam is considered beginner-friendly and is the easiest Azure certification. It focuses on conceptual understanding rather than hands-on technical implementation. With 4-6 weeks of study using Microsoft Learn resources and practice exams, most candidates with basic IT knowledge can pass successfully. The exam tests foundational concepts rather than deep technical expertise.
While the Azure Fundamentals certification alone typically supports entry-level positions with salaries ranging from $50,000-$85,000, it serves as a stepping stone to more advanced certifications. Combined with experience and additional Azure certifications (Associate or Expert level), professionals can earn $100,000-$150,000+ annually in cloud architect, administrator, or engineering roles.
No, the Azure Fundamentals certification does not expire. Once earned, it remains valid indefinitely. However, Microsoft regularly updates its technologies, so staying current with Azure developments through continuous learning is recommended even though recertification is not required.
The Azure Fundamentals certification can help you secure entry-level positions such as Cloud Support Specialist, Junior Cloud Administrator, IT Help Desk with cloud responsibilities, or Technical Sales roles. It's often the first step in a cloud career path, demonstrating foundational knowledge to employers and preparing you for more advanced Azure certifications.
About the Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals Certification
The Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) is a foundational-level certification offered by Microsoft Azure. This certification validates your expertise in cloud computing and is recognized globally by employers seeking qualified professionals. The exam consists of 40-60 questions to be completed in 85 minutes, with a passing score of 700/1000. The exam fee is $99, and the certification is valid for Does not expire.
Why Get Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals Certified?
- Career Advancement: Certified professionals earn an average of $85,000 per year. Microsoft Azure-certified professionals are among the most sought-after in the cloud computing industry.
- Industry Recognition: Microsoft Azure certifications are respected worldwide by employers, demonstrating verified competency in cloud computing technologies and practices.
- Skill Validation: The Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals exam rigorously tests your knowledge across 4 domains, ensuring you have the practical skills employers demand.
Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals Exam Format & Details
The AZ-900 exam is designed to test both theoretical knowledge and practical application. Candidates are given 85 minutes to complete the exam, which contains approximately 40-60 questions. A score of 700/1000 is required to pass. As a foundational-level exam, it focuses on core concepts and terminology, making it accessible to professionals new to the field. Prerequisites include: No formal prerequisites required Basic understanding of technology concepts recommended Familiarity with general IT concepts is helpful but not required.
Exam Domains & Topics
The Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals exam covers 4 key domains. Understanding the weight of each domain helps you allocate your study time effectively:
- Describe Cloud Concepts (25% of exam)
- Describe Azure Architecture and Services (35% of exam)
- Describe Azure Management and Governance (30% of exam)
- Describe Azure Security and Compliance (10% of exam)
Who Should Take the Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals Exam?
This certification is designed for professionals in the following roles:
- Individuals new to cloud computing and Azure services
- IT professionals transitioning to cloud technologies
- Business stakeholders evaluating Azure for their organization
- Students and career changers entering the IT field
Career Opportunities & Salary
Earning the Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals certification opens doors to roles such as Cloud Support Specialist, Junior Cloud Administrator, IT Support Analyst, Cloud Sales Associate. Certified professionals earn an average salary of $85,000 per year, reflecting the high demand for cloud computing skills in today's job market.
Recertification & Renewal
The Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals certification is valid for Does not expire. To maintain your credential, you will need to meet Microsoft Azure's renewal requirements before your certification expires. This may include earning continuing education credits, passing a recertification exam, or earning a higher-level certification.
Exam Registration & Cost
The AZ-900 exam costs $99. You can register through Microsoft Azure's official website or an authorized testing center. Most candidates choose between in-person testing at a Pearson VUE or PSI center and online proctored exams taken from home. Be sure to review the exam policies, including identification requirements and prohibited items, before your test date.
How to Prepare for AZ-900
We recommend 4-6 weeks of dedicated study time to prepare for the Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals exam. Start by reviewing the official exam objectives, then work through each domain systematically. Regular practice with exam-style questions is essential for building confidence and identifying weak areas. Combine reading with hands-on practice to develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
HydraNode publishes free exam dumps with answers and explanations for more than 80 certification exams. Every question is written to the published objectives, so what you practise matches the format and difficulty of the actual AZ-900 exam.