When considering which certification is best for Azure, evaluating your current skill level, career goals, and the specific areas of Azure you wish to specialize in is essential. Microsoft offers a variety of certifications tailored to different roles and expertise levels, making it necessary to choose one that aligns with your aspirations. Here's a breakdown of some of the top Azure certifications to consider in 2025:
Best Azure Certifications
1. Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)
- The Azure Fundamentals certification is an excellent starting point for anyone new to cloud computing or Microsoft Azure. This entry-level certification covers essential cloud concepts, core Azure services, security, privacy, compliance, and pricing. It's ideal for individuals from non-technical backgrounds or those looking to gain foundational knowledge about Azure.
- Who Should Take It: Beginners, sales and marketing professionals, and managers.
- Skills Covered: Core cloud concepts, Azure services, security, compliance, and pricing.
- Exam Fee: Approximately $99.
2. Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104)
- The Azure Administrator Associate certification is designed for IT professionals who manage cloud services that span storage, security, networking, and computing capabilities. This certification validates your skills in implementing and managing Azure environments.
- Who Should Take It: IT professionals with experience in managing cloud resources.
- Skills Covered: Managing Azure subscriptions and resources, implementing storage solutions, and configuring virtual networks.
- Exam Fee: Approximately $165.
3. Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305)
- The Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification is highly valuable for those looking to design solutions on Azure. This certification focuses on designing infrastructure solutions that meet business requirements.
- Who Should Take It: Experienced IT professionals with expertise in designing and implementing solutions.
- Skills Covered: Designing compute solutions, networking solutions, and storage solutions.
- Exam Fee: Approximately $165.
4. Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate (AZ-204)
- The Azure Developer Associate certification is aimed at developers who build applications and services on the Azure platform. It covers various aspects of development, including APIs, cloud storage options, and security.
- Who Should Take It: Developers looking to enhance their skills in cloud application development.
- Skills Covered: Developing for the cloud using Azure services.
- Exam Fee: Approximately $165.
5. Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate (AZ-500)
- As security becomes increasingly important in cloud environments, the Azure Security Engineer Associate certification focuses on implementing security controls and threat protection.
- Who Should Take It: IT professionals focused on security within Azure.
- Skills Covered: Managing identity and access, implementing platform protection.
- Exam Fee: Approximately $165.
Conclusion
Choosing the best Azure certification depends on your career goals and existing knowledge. For beginners, starting with the Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) is recommended. If you have some experience or want to specialize further, consider certifications like the Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104) or the Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305). Each certification enhances your skills and significantly boosts your employability in the growing field of cloud computing.
By investing time in obtaining these certifications, you position yourself as a valuable asset in the tech industry, ready to take advantage of the opportunities that Microsoft Azure offers.
