The Azure Certification Path_ What You Need to Know

1. The Azure Certification Path: What You Need to Know As Microsoft’s cloud offerings continue to grow, the number of IT professionals interested in Azure certification has also increased. In fact, the ever-increasing demand for cloud-savvy professionals has led to the proliferation of numerous types of Azure certifications, from associate to specialist and even expert level credentials. As you begin your journey toward becoming certified on Microsoft’s Azure platform, it’s important to understand which of these different levels is right for you. In this guide, we will explain the differences between each type of certification and point you in the right direction toward your future career as an Azure-certified professional. Azure Certifications Overview Microsoft currently offers a number of certification tracks for IT professionals interested in pursuing careers in working with Microsoft’s cloud technology and software. These include Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Expert (MCE), Architect (MCA), and Developer (MCSD) certifications, which range from entry-level to expert-level expertise. To help you understand what these different certifications mean, we’ve provided an overview of each track and a list of recommended prerequisite courses. For those interested in pursuing cloud certifications, we also offer a few tips on how to prepare for and tackle these exams. Depending on your level of experience, you might already know a lot about these skills. For example, if you’re an expert with Windows Server and Active Directory, that may qualify you for some portions of Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) certifications for cloud technologies. However, it’s always a good idea to brush up on any weak areas or fill in any gaps in your knowledge.

2. If you’re planning on pursuing any of these certifications, we recommend starting with our list of Microsoft Training and Certification paths. These outlines provide a general overview of each track and highlight common areas where training is recommended. Note that these are just general recommendations; you may need additional or different training based on your own experience level. How Many Exams Are Required To earn an MCSE certification in cloud and enterprise applications, you need to pass three exams: one of your choices from each group. Each exam is worth 270 points, so you can focus on a topic that interests you or spread out your studies. For example, if you want to specialize in cloud solutions engineering, choose two exams from that area: Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA): Cloud Platform Applications and Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA): Cloud Platform & Infrastructure, and one of your choice. The Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) certification exams determine which track you choose to test your knowledge and skills in a specific technology area. To become MCSA certified, you must pass one exam from each of these three tracks: cloud platform applications, infrastructure, and data platform. Once you have earned an MCSA certification, you can earn more advanced certifications by passing corresponding exams in these three tracks. The Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) certification exams are tailored to experienced IT professionals. To earn an MCSE certification, you must pass three corresponding exams in these five tracks: cloud infrastructure and enterprise applications, data platform, mobility, business intelligence, and security. Achieving an MCSE certification requires passing a wide range of exams across many technology areas. Exam Format and Structure The exam is made up of multiple-choice questions and can be taken via computer (Windows or Mac) with internet access. It’s a hands-on test, which means you’ll be performing tasks that simulate real-world scenarios on an Azure system using various Microsoft tools and services. The exam takes approximately 90 minutes and has a maximum score of 300 points. Although all of your tasks need to be completed in 90 minutes, if you complete them before time runs out, you can begin new tasks. There is no penalty for clicking on a task that’s still loading and taking a few extra seconds or minutes. It’s not an open-book test; all of your answer options will be preloaded into your computer screen when you start each task. After you have completed all of your tasks, you will be asked a series of questions about exam topics. To answer these questions, you’ll need to drag and drop answers into three different pools one for each of three categories:

3. 1) Planning and Designing; 2) Developing; 3) Deploying and Operations. Each question pool has five choices, but only one choice is correct. If you choose an incorrect answer, you'll have to choose another one. However, if you take too long and don’t answer in time, your exam will end and you won’t be able to review your answers. At that point, you can then either retake it or apply for an exam retake voucher. It takes approximately two weeks after scheduling an exam date for a retake voucher application to be approved by Microsoft before you can schedule another appointment. Exam breakdown by topic Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll be tested on in each exam category, and some sample questions. Please note that actual questions may vary slightly from those shown here, but they will focus on these areas. Earning A Certificate Earning an Azure certification is a great way to prove your skills and knowledge in implementing Microsoft’s cloud services. Earning your first certificate on the path can be a little overwhelming. Thankfully, there are many different ways you can get started toward your certification you just need to know where to look! Let’s take a look at several paths you can take on your journey through Microsoft certifications. In addition to earning individual Microsoft certifications, you can also earn multiple certificates in a single area. For example, you could take two exams in order to earn your Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) - Windows Server 2016 certification or three exams for your MCSA - Cloud Platform certification. Another option for earning multiple certificates is to pursue a specialist track. These tracks follow a specific focus and provide more in-depth learning than most certifications, making them valuable additions to your profile as well as being valuable skills on their own. Once you have an idea of what kind of track you want to pursue, it’s time to find out where and how you can earn your Microsoft certification. The best way is by earning a passing score on one or more Microsoft exams. Earning your first certification can be a big step on your journey toward an exciting and rewarding career in cloud technology. Remember, there are plenty of different ways you can pursue your certification.

4. Microsoft Official Courses vs Self-Study When starting down your certification path, you have two options for learning. First, there are Microsoft Official Courses (MOCs). These immersive and fast-paced courses are taught by Microsoft-certified professionals who teach both onsite and online; you’ll learn from instructors who know how to break down complicated subjects and present them in a way that’s easy to understand. The second option is self-study; no classroom means you’re free to go at your own pace. Either of these options will help you prepare to pass your exams. Choosing between MOCs and self-study will depend on your learning style and preferred study method. Self-study is entirely free, but it takes more time; MOCs offer structure and a supportive learning environment, but they cost money and require more travel. Both methods have a purpose and can be equally helpful in their respective areas. If you’re looking for a structured learning environment, you should consider MOCs; if budget is a concern or if you prefer learning at your own pace, self-study might be a better option. Once you pick your course format, it’s time to start studying! Either way, Microsoft offers free resources designed to help ensure your success on exams. Alternatively, you can for sure choose Thinkcloudly for their courses on azure certification, live projects, and many services required in your journey. Feel free to put up your doubts. Concluding words: In this blog, I mentioned the exam structure, the perfect path you need to follow, and modes of studies with their preferable requirements. It was a complete guide needed before starting your Azure certification journey. Feel free to reach Thinkcoudly for your doubts. We are happy to listen from you. You can book a free demo session. Good luck with your journey. Keep learning. Happily Thinkcloudly!