Microsoft Azure Fundamentals Quick Facts (2025)

Microsoft Azure Fundamentals Quick Facts

The Microsoft Azure Fundamentals certification opens the door for anyone eager to build a strong foundation in cloud technology. This overview provides a clear path through the exam essentials, helping you focus on what matters most and prepare with genuine confidence.

Why pursue the Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) certification?

The Microsoft Azure Fundamentals certification (exam code AZ-900) validates your understanding of the core principles of cloud computing and how they come to life within Azure. It is designed for individuals in both technical and non-technical roles who want to strengthen their knowledge of cloud concepts, Azure architecture, management tools, and governance features. By earning this certification, you gain the ability to explain key concepts like cloud service models, Azure’s global infrastructure, cost management strategies, and security fundamentals, empowering you to engage effectively with teams and projects that depend on Azure.

Exam Domains Covered (Click to expand breakdown)

Exam Domain Breakdown

Domain 1: Describe cloud concepts (28% of the exam)

Describe cloud computing

• Define cloud computing
• Describe the shared responsibility model
• Define cloud models, including public, private, and hybrid
• Identify appropriate use cases for each cloud model
• Describe the consumption-based model
• Compare cloud pricing models
• Describe serverless

Summary: This section lays the foundation for understanding how cloud computing works by clarifying its key models and approaches. You will explore how public, private, and hybrid setups provide unique advantages for different needs, and why the shared responsibility model ensures both the provider and user have clear roles in security and management. Just as importantly, you will grasp concepts such as pay-as-you-go consumption and serverless computing, which reshape how organizations design modern solutions.

The knowledge gained here helps you explain real-world scenarios where cloud fits best. For example, you might align hybrid cloud with companies wanting a mix of on-premises and cloud resources, or serverless with workloads that need rapid, cost-effective execution without infrastructure overhead. By drawing clear connections between cloud options and use cases, you build the ability to recommend approaches that bring measurable value.

Describe the benefits of using cloud services

• Describe the benefits of high availability and scalability in the cloud
• Describe the benefits of reliability and predictability in the cloud
• Describe the benefits of security and governance in the cloud
• Describe the benefits of manageability in the cloud

Summary: This section emphasizes why organizations adopt cloud services by introducing the benefits that help workloads perform at their best. You will understand how high availability delivers consistent access, how scalability ensures resources grow or shrink as needed, and how manageability simplifies everyday operations. Reliability and predictability are also highlighted, reinforcing how cloud helps businesses anticipate costs and performance in a stable way.

These benefits make cloud adoption an accelerant for innovation and growth. You will be able to connect terms like governance and security not just to compliance, but to peace of mind for organizations handling critical data. With these insights, you can clearly convey how the cloud removes uncertainty for businesses striving for agility and operational confidence.

Describe cloud service types

• Describe infrastructure as a service (IaaS)
• Describe platform as a service (PaaS)
• Describe software as a service (SaaS)
• Identify appropriate use cases for each cloud service type (IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS)

Summary: This section introduces the three primary cloud service models—Infrastructure as a Service, Platform as a Service, and Software as a Service. You will see how IaaS provides flexibility for those managing their own infrastructure, PaaS supports developers with managed application platforms, and SaaS delivers ready-to-use applications. Each has distinctive use cases, ranging from virtual machines in IaaS to application hosting in PaaS, to productivity tools in SaaS.

The value comes from knowing when each model makes sense. For instance, a development team deploying applications quickly may prefer PaaS for its reduced maintenance, while companies needing operational control at the infrastructure level may select IaaS. This knowledge helps ensure recommendations align with business goals and technical requirements.

Domain 2: Describe Azure architecture and services (38% of the exam)

Describe the core architectural components of Azure

• Describe Azure regions, region pairs, and sovereign regions
• Describe availability zones
• Describe Azure datacenters
• Describe Azure resources and resource groups
• Describe subscriptions
• Describe management groups
• Describe the hierarchy of resource groups, subscriptions, and management groups

Summary: This section gives an overview of Azure’s global footprint and organizational design. You will learn how regions and availability zones enable resilience, while datacenters ensure resources are both strategically located and secured. Resource groups, subscriptions, and management groups then provide layers of organization, helping users manage everything from small projects to enterprise-scale workloads.

By understanding this structure, you can describe how Azure achieves both scalability and governance across organizations of any size. The hierarchy allows clean separation of workloads, cost tracking, and security enforcement, ensuring clarity in managing resources while still benefiting from Azure’s worldwide reach and resiliency.

Describe Azure compute and networking services

• Compare compute types, including containers, virtual machines, and functions
• Describe virtual machine options, including Azure Virtual Machines, Virtual Machine Scale Sets, availability sets, and Azure Virtual Desktop
• Describe the resources required for virtual machines
• Describe application hosting options, including web apps, containers, and virtual machines
• Describe virtual networking, including the purpose of Azure Virtual Networks, subnets, peering, DNS, VPN Gateway, and ExpressRoute
• Define public and private endpoints

Summary: This section focuses on compute and networking essentials within Azure. You’ll understand the many ways workloads can be hosted, from traditional virtual machines to containers and serverless functions. Networking topics include how Azure’s virtual networks, gateways, and peering strategies create secure, efficient connectivity.

These capabilities combine to deliver flexible deployment options for all types of solutions. Teams building scalable websites, distributed applications, or hybrid solutions will find appropriate tools within Azure’s compute and networking offerings, ensuring they can select solutions aligned with performance, cost, and connectivity needs.

Describe Azure storage services

• Compare Azure Storage services
• Describe storage tiers
• Describe redundancy options
• Describe storage account options and storage types
• Identify options for moving files, including AzCopy, Azure Storage Explorer, and Azure File Sync
• Describe migration options, including Azure Migrate and Azure Data Box

Summary: This section introduces the storage backbone of Azure, helping you understand the different services, tiers, and redundancy options. You’ll see how Azure provides object, file, and disk storage, as well as tools for migration and hybrid access. Storage tiers further extend flexibility by matching cost and performance with data usage patterns.

With these concepts, you can recommend storage approaches that meet business demands. For example, organizations with hot frequently accessed data may use premium storage, while archival cold data fits cost-effective tiers. Migration tools further demonstrate Azure’s ability to align with both on-premises and cloud-first strategies.

Describe Azure identity, access, and security

• Describe directory services in Azure, including Microsoft Entra ID and Entra Domain Services
• Describe authentication methods including SSO, MFA, and passwordless
• Describe external identities such as B2B and B2C
• Describe Microsoft Entra Conditional Access
• Describe Azure RBAC
• Describe the concept of Zero Trust
• Describe the defense-in-depth model
• Describe Microsoft Defender for Cloud

Summary: This section highlights how Azure builds security into every aspect of identity and access control. You will learn about Microsoft Entra ID, Conditional Access, and authentication methods that improve both security and user experience. Role-based access control (RBAC) ensures appropriate permissions, while Zero Trust and defense-in-depth underscore Azure’s layered security approach.

By mastering these concepts, you can describe how organizations protect applications and data with confidence. From enabling multi-factor authentication to deploying monitoring with Defender for Cloud, these tools help achieve both compliance and resilience. Overall, this section emphasizes security as a cornerstone of Azure success.

Domain 3: Describe Azure management and governance (34% of the exam)

Describe cost management in Azure

• Describe factors that can affect costs in Azure
• Compare the pricing calculator and the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) Calculator
• Describe cost management capabilities in Azure
• Describe the purpose of tags

Summary: This section focuses on aligning financial accountability with Azure usage. You will learn about the factors that influence costs, such as resource type and location, and how to estimate future expenses with the Pricing and TCO calculators. Tags are introduced as a way to associate costs with projects, teams, or business units.

When paired with cost management tools, organizations gain transparency and accountability across their environments. Stakeholders can then forecast, monitor, and optimize their spend while making informed design or purchasing decisions that match strategic goals.

Describe features and tools in Azure for governance and compliance

• Describe the purpose of Microsoft Purview
• Describe the purpose of Azure Policy
• Describe the purpose of resource locks

Summary: This section explains how governance is enabled through built-in tools. Microsoft Purview helps organizations manage compliance and data governance, while policies establish guardrails to ensure resources align with standards. Resource locks are introduced as safeguards to prevent accidental modification or deletion of critical assets.

Altogether, these tools show how governance maintains alignment with corporate and regulatory requirements while remaining flexible enough for development and operations. This ensures organizations retain both control and agility as their environments expand.

Describe features and tools for managing and deploying Azure resources

• Describe the Azure portal
• Describe Azure Cloud Shell, including CLI and PowerShell
• Describe the purpose of Azure Arc
• Describe infrastructure as code (IaC)
• Describe Azure Resource Manager (ARM) and ARM templates

Summary: This section introduces the tools available for effective deployment and management of Azure resources. From the Azure portal for intuitive management to automation through ARM templates or infrastructure as code, you will see how teams can streamline their operations. Tools like Cloud Shell and Azure Arc help maintain consistent governance across hybrid and multi-cloud setups.

These tools empower organizations to adopt repeatable, reliable, and automated methods of resource creation. This improves efficiency, reduces errors, and provides consistency in environments that may span multiple regions or even multiple platforms.

Describe monitoring tools in Azure

• Describe the purpose of Azure Advisor
• Describe Azure Service Health
• Describe Azure Monitor, including Log Analytics, Alerts, and Application Insights

Summary: This section highlights Azure’s capabilities for continuous monitoring and optimization. Azure Advisor provides tailored recommendations, while Service Health communicates ongoing issues or maintenance events. Azure Monitor brings together infrastructure and application telemetry, providing alerts and deep insights to aid proactive decision-making.

These monitoring tools help ensure workloads perform reliably over time. Combined, they provide real visibility across environments, enabling organizations to optimize performance, ensure uptime, and address operational needs before they impact users.

Who Should Pursue the Microsoft Certified Azure Fundamentals Certification?

The Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) certification is perfect if you are exploring a career in cloud technology or simply want to validate your understanding of how cloud platforms like Azure work. This entry-level exam is designed for those who may be new to cloud computing, but it is also valued by business professionals, managers, and students who want to speak the language of modern cloud technology. It is approachable for anyone with an interest in IT infrastructure, software development, or database management, and it establishes a strong foundation for more advanced Microsoft certifications.

Even if you are not in a technical role, this certification can boost your ability to make informed decisions about digital transformation, cloud adoption, and IT strategies for your team or organization.

Which career opportunities can Azure Fundamentals open for me?

While this certification is an entry point, it can open doors in a variety of career paths. You may find it especially relevant for introductory or hybrid roles such as:

• Cloud Support Associate
• Junior Azure Administrator
• Cloud Sales Specialist or Account Executive
• Technical Recruiter with a cloud focus
• Cloud Project Coordinator or Analyst

Over time, this credential serves as the first step toward becoming an Azure Administrator, Solutions Architect, DevOps Engineer, or Cloud Developer. By mastering these fundamentals, you position yourself for exciting growth as cloud computing continues to transform industries.

What exam code should I register for?

The official exam you need to register for is AZ-900: Microsoft Azure Fundamentals. This exam represents the most up-to-date knowledge expectations at the foundational level and covers cloud concepts alongside Azure architecture, security, management, and governance features. You will want to make sure you are preparing for AZ-900 specifically, as this demonstrates that you have studied the current body of knowledge tested by Microsoft.

What is the cost of the Microsoft Azure Fundamentals exam?

The exam cost is $99 USD. The final price may vary depending on your country, local currency conversions, or added taxes. It is considered an affordable option compared to more advanced certifications, making it an excellent investment for anyone looking to begin their cloud learning path. Students or educators may also qualify for discounted pricing by registering through Certiport.

How many questions will I face on exam AZ-900?

The AZ-900 exam contains approximately 60 questions. These questions are a mix of multiple-choice and multiple-select formats, with some interactive elements such as drag-and-drop or scenario-based items. Because the exam is only 45 minutes long, pacing yourself carefully is important. By practicing in advance, you will gain comfort with the exam flow and question styles.

How long do I have to complete the exam?

You are given 45 minutes to complete all questions on the AZ-900 exam. While that may sound like a short amount of time, the questions are designed for individuals at the beginner level. Efficient time management is key, and Microsoft ensures the exam flow gives you fair opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge without requiring extensive memorization.

What score do I need to pass?

The passing score is 700 out of 1000. This means you need to achieve at least 70 percent to earn the certification. The scoring system uses Microsoft’s compensatory model, which means you don’t need to pass each section individually. As long as your overall score crosses 700, you will officially earn the Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals credential.

In which languages is the AZ-900 exam available?

Microsoft offers the exam in a wide list of languages to make it accessible worldwide. The AZ-900 certification can be taken in English, Japanese, Chinese (Simplified), Korean, Spanish, German, French, Indonesian, Arabic, Chinese (Traditional), Italian, Portuguese (Brazil), and Russian. This ensures that whether you prefer local-language preparation or English, you will find resources and testing comfort that meets your needs.

How much experience should I have before attempting the exam?

There are no strict prerequisites for AZ-900, which makes it one of the most approachable cloud certifications available. However, Microsoft recommends that you should have familiarity with at least one area of IT, such as infrastructure, database management, or software development. Even if you come from a non-technical role, spending time with cloud fundamentals study materials will set you up for success.

What topics are covered on the AZ-900 Microsoft Azure Fundamentals exam?

The AZ-900 exam blueprint is organized into three main domains, each with a significant weighting:

1. Describe cloud concepts (28 percent)

   • Benefits of the cloud
   • Shared responsibility model
   • Cloud models: public, private, hybrid
   • IaaS, PaaS, SaaS

2. Describe Azure architecture and services (38 percent)

   • Compute, networking, storage
   • Virtual machines, containers, functions
   • Azure regions, availability zones
   • Identity and access management (Entra ID, RBAC, Zero Trust)

3. Describe Azure management and governance (34 percent)

   • Azure Portal, CLI, PowerShell
   • Azure Policy, Microsoft Purview, tags
   • Cost management and calculators
   • Monitoring with Azure Monitor and Service Health

Understanding these areas not only helps you pass the exam, but also gives you practical cloud knowledge that can be applied immediately in the workplace.

What are the benefits of taking the Microsoft Certified Azure Fundamentals exam?

This certification validates that you understand the building blocks of cloud computing and Azure. That recognition boosts your credibility whether you are pursuing a new technical career or working in a business-aligned role. Beyond career credentials, it fosters confidence in cloud discussions and decision-making, allowing you to engage with engineers, customers, and stakeholders about Microsoft Azure’s role in modern businesses.

Is this a difficult exam to pass?

The AZ-900 is intentionally designed to be beginner-friendly. Microsoft wants newcomers to cloud computing to succeed and advance onto more specialized certifications. You will still need to prepare, but with structured practice and a clear study approach, most candidates find the exam to be well within reach. To sharpen your skills, make time for top-rated Microsoft Azure Fundamentals practice exams that recreate the types of questions and timing you will face.

How long is my Microsoft Azure Fundamentals certification valid?

Your certification does not expire immediately after you pass. Like most Microsoft credentials, it establishes a valuable milestone on your career path. While foundational certifications are not subject to strict expiration timelines like some advanced certifications, Microsoft encourages continuous learning and renewing through advanced certifications as your skills progress.

Will I receive college credit for passing exam AZ-900?

Yes. If you pass the AZ-900 exam, you may be eligible for ACE college credit. This benefit allows you to potentially apply your certification achievement toward academic credit at participating academic institutions. It adds meaningful educational value to the credential outside of professional recognition.

Can students and educators take exam AZ-900 through different programs?

Yes. Microsoft partners with Certiport to offer discounted or special access for students and educators. This provides an excellent opportunity for academic institutions and learners to incorporate the Microsoft Azure Fundamentals exam into their skill-building or career-preparation journeys at an affordable cost.

Can I retake the exam if I do not pass on the first try?

Absolutely. Microsoft’s exam retake policy is designed to give you another chance quickly. If you don’t pass the first attempt, you can retake the exam after 24 hours. For future retries, the waiting period increases slightly, but ultimately you can attempt the exam multiple times until you pass.

Where can I schedule and take the Microsoft Azure Fundamentals exam?

You can schedule your exam through Pearson VUE testing centers or take it online with a remote proctor. Remote proctored exams allow you to test from home, provided you have a quiet space, webcam, and reliable internet connection. Students and educators can register through Certiport instead.

What should I study to feel confident for the AZ-900 exam?

Focus on these knowledge areas:

• Cloud fundamentals like scalability, high availability, and global cloud models
• Azure services including compute, storage, networking, and databases
• Security and identity principles like RBAC and Conditional Access
• Governance and cost management using Azure Policy, tags, and cost calculators
• Monitoring and operations with Azure Monitor, Service Health, and Advisor

Hands-on labs combined with structured study paths will make these topics stick. Microsoft Learn offers excellent, interactive modules to practice core skills.

What preparation resources does Microsoft offer?

Microsoft Learn provides learning paths dedicated to AZ-900, complete with videos, labs, and quizzes. The Microsoft Azure Fundamentals learning path is broken into manageable units, so you can pace yourself. In addition, you can explore the Azure free account to gain hands-on experience with key services like virtual machines, storage accounts, and identity.

What steps should I take after earning Azure Fundamentals?

Once you have secured the AZ-900, the next natural steps are certifications aligned with your career goals:

• Azure Administrator Associate for infrastructure-focused roles
• Azure Developer Associate for building and deploying in the cloud
• Azure Security Engineer Associate for securing environments
• Azure Solutions Architect Expert for high-level cloud design leadership

Every path builds further into Microsoft’s certification hierarchy and enhances your career potential in cloud computing.

Where can I learn more about the official Microsoft documents for AZ-900?

The best place to get detailed certification insights, register for the exam, and review official Microsoft prep resources is directly from the official Microsoft Azure Fundamentals certification page. This resource will guide you through registration, policies, and structured learning paths managed by Microsoft themselves.

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The Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals exam is one of the best ways to begin your journey into the cloud. It sets the foundation for future growth, demonstrates initiative to employers, and brings clarity to the fast-moving world of cloud computing. With structured preparation, hands-on learning, and the right practice tools, you’ll be exam-ready and Azure-certified in no time.