Do you know that the global cloud computing market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 21.8% by 2030, especially in India. This rapid growth has created room for plenty of cloud computing roles.

Azure Cloud Engineer earns an average salary of ₹6–7 lakh per annum (LPA) for entry-level roles. In fact, the highest reported salaries for senior Azure Cloud Engineer can reach up to ₹25–30 lakh per annum. 

In this blog, you’ll learn beginner to advanced Microsoft Azure certifications, best career roadmap to land a high-paying job and the available job roles in the market.

What are Microsoft Azure Certifications?

Microsoft Azure certifications are globally-recognized official credentials that validate cloud computing skills specializing in the Azure platform. Microsoft certifications follow a level of hierarchy, starting with certifications that are for beginners to advanced-level certifications.

Here is how the Microsoft Azure certifications are bifurcated:

• Fundamental-Level Certifications

The fundamental-level certifications are entry-level certifications designed for non-technical professionals or beginners who want to learn about core cloud computing concepts, Azure architecture and basic services. 

For example, Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) and AI Fundamentals (AI-900).

• Associate-Level Certifications

Once you get some experience with Azure cloud services, you can start focusing on specific job roles. You can choose jobs like Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104), Azure Developer Associate (AZ-204), and Azure Security Engineer Associate (AZ-500).

• Expert-Level Certifications

When you get versed with Azure technologies for over 2-3 years, you become a seasoned cloud professional. This is when expert-level Azure certifications come in handy. These certifications aim at validating advanced skills in Cloud architecture, DevOps and solution Design.

• Specialty-Level Certifications

Once you gain over 4-5 years of experience in the industry, you become a cloud professional. These certifications are for professionals who seek specialization in specific domains in Azure such as IoT, SAP workloads, or specific data roles.

What is the Best Azure Certification Path?

We understand that it is a daunting task to choose the right Azure certification path, especially when you’re a beginner and just starting out. We have specially created a roadmap that you can follow if you are a mere beginner and planning to either be an expert or specialize in a particular Azure cloud niche.

1. Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)

AZ-900 is the most basic Azure certification. This certification is the best choice when you have no knowledge about cloud or you hail from a non-technical background. 

The benefits of this certification are as follows:

• You get hands-on experience with the Azure environment.

• You learn about the Azure portal and Command Line Interface (CLI).

Prerequisites:

There are no prerequisites to this certification.

Estimated time: 2 months

Job opportunities:

You can land the job role of an Azure Administrator. 

2. Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104)

AZ-104 or Azure Administrator Associate is one of the most popular Microsoft Azure certifications. As mentioned, it is an associate-level certification that helps you validate your skills to configure, manage, secure, and administer key professional functions in Microsoft Azure environments.

The benefits of this certification are as follows:

• You can apply for the role of Microsoft Azure Administrator.

• You learn about the Azure environment including virtual networks, storage, compute, identity, security and governance.

Prerequisites:

You must be familiar with the following:

• PowerShell

• Azure CLI

• The Azure portal

• Azure Resource Manager templates

• Microsoft Entra ID

Estimated time: 2 months

Job opportunities:

• Azure Administrator

• Cloud Engineer

• Cloud Security Engineer

• Cloud Solutions Architect

• DevOps Engineer

3. Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate (AZ-500)

The AZ-500 certification is designed for professionals who want to specialize in Azure security. This azure training and certification validates your ability to implement security controls, maintain security posture, and identify vulnerabilities across hybrid and cloud environments.

The benefits of this certification include:

• Advanced knowledge of Azure security solutions and threat protection

• Skills in implementing identity and access management

• Understanding of platform protection and data security

Prerequisites:

• Strong understanding of security best practices

• Experience with Azure networking and compute services

• Knowledge of scripting and automation

Estimated time: 3 months

Job opportunities:

• Azure Security Engineer

• Cloud Security Architect

• Information Security Analyst

4. Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate (AZ-204)

This azure course focuses on developing cloud solutions using Azure services. It's perfect for developers who want to build applications on the Azure platform.

Prerequisites:

• Programming experience in Azure-supported languages

• Understanding of Azure services and architecture

• Knowledge of development tools and practices

Estimated time: 3 months

Advanced Azure Certification Path

1. Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305)

This expert-level certification validates advanced skills in designing solutions on Azure. It requires passing the AZ-104 or AZ-204 as prerequisites.

2. Azure DevOps Engineer Expert (AZ-400)

Perfect for professionals focusing on DevOps practices, this certification requires either AZ-104 or AZ-204 as prerequisites.

How to Choose the Right Azure Training?

When selecting your azure online training, consider these factors:

1. Azure Online Training Certification Programs: Look for comprehensive programs that offer hands-on labs and real-world scenarios.

2. Instructor-Led vs. Self-Paced: Choose based on your learning style and schedule flexibility.

3. Practice Labs: Ensure your azure training includes access to live Azure environments for practical experience.

4. Azure Networking Certification Focus: If you're interested in networking, look for specialized tracks that cover Azure networking services in depth.

Note: If you’re looking for best Azure training, look no further than Career Security’s Network Automation and Cloud Security Program.

Tis for Azure Certification Success

1. Start with Azure Fundamentals: Even experienced IT professionals benefit from understanding Azure's core concepts.

2. Hands-On Practice: Theoretical knowledge alone isn't sufficient. Use Azure free tier accounts for practical experience.

3. Join Study Groups: Connect with other professionals pursuing Microsoft Azure certification for peer support.

4. Regular Updates: Azure services evolve rapidly, so stay updated with the latest features and best practices.

5. Practice Exams: Take multiple practice tests to familiarize yourself with the exam format and identify knowledge gaps.

Career Opportunities After Azure Certification

The azure administrator role is one of the most in-demand positions in the current job market. With proper azure training, you can explore various career paths including cloud architecture, security engineering, and DevOps specialization.

Companies across industries are actively seeking professionals with azure certification path expertise, making it an excellent investment for career growth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to complete the Azure certification path?

The timeline varies based on your background and chosen path. Beginners typically need 6-12 months to complete fundamental and associate-level certifications, while experienced professionals might complete them in 3-6 months.

Is Azure online training as effective as classroom training?

Yes, azure online training can be equally effective if it includes hands-on labs, interactive content, and instructor support. Many professionals prefer online training due to its flexibility and cost-effectiveness.

Which Azure certification should I start with?

Start with Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) regardless of your technical background. It provides essential foundational knowledge for all other azure course paths.

How much does Azure certification cost?

Microsoft Azure certification exams typically cost between $99-$165 USD. Training costs vary depending on the provider and format you choose.

Do Azure certifications expire?

Yes, most Azure certifications are valid for one year from the date of certification. You need to complete renewal requirements to maintain your certification status.

Can I get a job with just Azure Fundamentals certification?

While Azure Fundamentals demonstrates basic knowledge, most employers prefer associate-level certifications like AZ-104 for azure administrator positions.

What's the difference between AZ-104 and AZ-204?

AZ-104 focuses on administration and infrastructure management, while AZ-204 is designed for developers building applications on Azure.

Is prior cloud experience necessary for Azure certifications?

No, you can start with no prior cloud experience. Azure Fundamentals is specifically designed for beginners to cloud computing.