New Microsoft Azure Certifications Path in 2020 [Updated]

In 2018 at Ignite Conference, Microsoft announced and released few major changes in the existing Azure certification path. This announcement was referred to as the modern era of technology. The changes in the certification tracks were made to make the Azure certifications more role-based.

Along with the arrival of the new Azure certifications, the news contains the retirement of some of the existing Microsoft Azure exams at the end of 2018.

Even in 2020, Microsoft replaced some of the new role-based Azure certifications and launched the new ones, on the basis of the feedback received from the exam takers. Go through this Azure Certification Path to get the most recent updates of Azure Certifications.

New Microsoft Azure Certifications Path 

The new role-based Azure certifications establish a learning path from the Fundamental level to the Associate level and then to the Expert level. There are five Microsoft Azure Certifications path for five different roles particularly based on Azure; the roles are –

• Azure Fundamentals
• Azure Administrator Associate
• Azure Developer Associate
• Azure Solutions Architect Expert
• Azure DevOps Engineer Expert
• Azure Security Engineer Associate
• Azure Data Engineer Associate
• Azure AI Engineer Associate
• Azure Data Scientist Associate
• Azure IoT Developer
• Azure Architect for SAP Workloads

In this article, you will get to know about these new Azure certifications path along with the useful information. Before getting into the details of these Azure certifications, you can check all the azure certifications preparation guides here –

• Azure Exam AZ-900 Preparation Guide
• Azure Exam AZ-103 Preparation Guide
• Azure Exam AZ-104 Preparation Guide
• Azure Exam AZ-203 Preparation Guide
• Azure Exam AZ-204 Preparation Guide
• Azure Exam AZ-300 Preparation Guide
• Azure Exam AZ-301 Preparation Guide
• Azure Exam AZ-400 Preparation Guide
• Azure Exam AZ-500 Preparation Guide
• Azure Exam DP-200 Preparation Guide
• Azure Exam DP-201 Preparation Guide
• Azure Exam DP-100 Preparation Guide
• Azure Exam AI-100 Preparation Guide

1. Azure Fundamentals

Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) is the foundational level exam in the new Azure certifications path. This exam is intended for those who want to demonstrate their basic knowledge of cloud services with Microsoft Azure. Even if you are from the non-technical background but if you have some basic understanding of the concepts of cloud, you can take this certification exam.

Exam AZ-900: Microsoft Azure Fundamentals

This exam is considered as the first step in associate level and expert level Azure certifications path. Although it’s an optional step, validating your foundational knowledge will benefit you to some extent.

Let’s have a look at the details of the Azure AZ-900 exam.

Prerequisites: There are no particular prerequisites for the Microsoft Azure Fundamental exam but one should be familiar and have a basic understanding of the cloud services and the Microsoft Azure platform.

Domains Covered in AZ-900 Exam are –

Domain	% Weight
Understand Cloud Concepts	15-20%
Understand Core Azure Services	30-35%
Understand Security, Privacy, Compliance, and Trust	25-30%
Understand Azure Pricing and Support	25-30%

Exam Languages: English, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, and Korean

Certification Cost: USD 99

Preparing for Exam AZ-900: Microsoft Azure Microsoft Azure Fundamentals? Check your current level of preparation with the Azure AZ-900 Practice Tests.

2. Azure Administrator Associate

As per the new updates, one needs to pass only one certification exam i.e. Exam AZ-103: Microsoft Azure Administrator to become Azure Administrator Associate. After passing the certification exam for AZ-103, you will become a Microsoft Certified Azure Administrator Associate and receive a badge of Azure Administrator Associate. 

Exam AZ-104: Microsoft Azure Administrator is the latest version of Microsoft Azure Administrator AZ-103 exam. AZ-104 exam has been available from April 2, 2020 but the AZ-103 exam will remain available until August 31, 2020. So you can take either AZ-103 or AZ-104 until August 31, 2020. 

AZ-103: Microsoft Azure Administrator

From May 1, 2019, the aspirants only need to pass AZ-103: Microsoft Azure Administrator exam to earn the Azure Developer Associate certification. The exam AZ-103 combines the skills and domains covered in the exams AZ-100 and AZ-101; more from the AZ-100 exam. This exam also acts as a prerequisite for the Microsoft Certified Azure DevOps Engineer Expert exam. 

Prerequisites: Prerequisites for Microsoft Azure Infrastructure and Deployment are –

• You should have prior knowledge of Azure applications, Operating Systems, Cloud and Storage Infrastructure.
• You should also have a basic knowledge of networking components and virtualization tools.
• If you know PowerShell and the Command Line Interface, then it will be an added advantage.

Domains Covered in the Exam are –

Domain	% Weight
Manage Azure subscriptions and resources	15-20%
Implement and manage storage	15-20%
Deploy and manage virtual machines (VMs)	15-20%
Configure and manage virtual networks	30-35%
Manage identities	15-20%

Exam Languages: English, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, and Korean

Certification Cost: USD 165 

Try Now: Free Practice Test For AZ-103: Microsoft Azure Administrator Exam

AZ-104: Microsoft Azure Administrator

The AZ-104 certification exam is the ideal Azure certification for the role of Microsoft Azure Administrator. AZ-104 is the updated version of the existing exam for the Microsoft Azure Administrator exam (AZ-103). The exam tests the capabilities of candidates in implementation, management, and monitoring of identity, storage, virtual networks, compute and governance in cloud environments.

Prerequisites

The important prerequisites for the AZ-104 exam are as follows.

• At least six months of practical experience in Azure administration.
• Formidable understanding of core Azure services, security, governance, and Azure workloads.
• Hands-on experience with the use of PowerShell, ARM templates, Command Line Interface and Azure Portal.

Domains Covered in the Exam

Domain	Weighting
Manage Azure identities and governance	15-20%
Implementation and management of storage	10-15%
Deployment and management of Azure compute resources	25-30%
Configuring and managing virtual networks	30-35%
Monitoring and backup for Azure resources	10-15%

Exam Languages – English

Registration Cost – $165 USD

Try Now: Microsoft Azure Administrator AZ-104 Free Test

3. Azure Developer Associate

For the Azure Developer Associate role,  you need to pass only one certification Exam AZ-203: Developing Solutions for Microsoft Azure.  After passing the certification exam for AZ-203, you will become Microsoft Certified Azure Developer Associate and will receive a badge of Azure Developer Associate. 

AZ-203: Developing Solutions for Microsoft Azure

AZ-203: Developing Solutions for Microsoft Azure exam released on September 24, 2018. Developing Solutions for Microsoft Azure exam (AZ-203) is the only exam for the Azure Developer Associate role. It also acts as a prerequisite for the Microsoft Certified Azure DevOps Engineer Expert exam. 

Whether you have already passed the 70-532 exam or not,  you will receive the badge of Microsoft Certified Azure Developer Associate on passing the AZ-203 exam.

Exam AZ-204: Developing Solutions for Microsoft Azure is the latest version of Microsoft Azure Developer AZ-203 exam. AZ-204 exam has been available from February 26, 2020 but the AZ-203 exam will remain available until May 31, 2020. So you can take either AZ-103 or AZ-104 until May 31, 2020. 

Prerequisites: AZ-203 exam is for the Azure developers who are responsible for designing and building cloud solutions on the Azure platform. Prerequisites for Developing Solutions for Microsoft Azure (AZ-203) are –

• The candidate should have the proficiency to develop services and apps by the implementation of Azure tools and technologies
• The candidate should have at least one year of experience in developing scalable solutions
• The candidate should be skilled in at least one cloud-supported programming language

Domains Covered in the Exam are –

Domain	% Weight
Develop Azure Infrastructure as a Service Compute Solutions	10-15%
Develop for Azure Storage	15-20%
Develop Azure Platform as a Service Compute Solutions	20-25%
Implement Azure Security	10-15%
Monitor, Troubleshoot, and Optimize Azure Solutions	15-20%
Connect and Consume Azure Services & Third-party Services	20-25%

Exam Languages: English, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, and Korean

Certification Cost: USD 165

Preparing for Exam AZ-203: Developing Solutions for Microsoft Azure exam? Check your current level of preparation with the Azure AZ-203 Practice Tests.

Developing Solutions for Microsoft Azure Beta Exam (AZ-204)

The AZ-204 Azure Certification is in the beta stage and is the new standard exam for Azure cloud developers. This certification is ideal for cloud developers involved in different phases of development, such as designing, building, deploying, and maintaining cloud solutions. 

Prerequisites

The important prerequisites for the AZ-204 beta exam are as follows,

• In-depth proficiency in Azure SDKs, APIs, data storage options, app authentication, and authorization, debugging, monitoring, compute and container deployment, data connections, monitoring, and performance tuning.
• At least one to two years of hands-on experience in professional development.
• Practical experience in working on the Microsoft Azure platform.
• Knowledge of at least one programming language supported by Azure.

Domains Covered in the Exam

Domain	Weighting
Develop Azure compute solutions	25-30%
Developing for Azure storage	10-15%
Implementation of Azure security	15-20%
Monitoring, troubleshooting and optimizing Azure solutions	10-15%
Connect to and consume Azure services and third-party services	25-30%

Exam languages – English

Registration Cost – $165 USD

Try Now: Microsoft Azure Developer AZ-204 Exam

4. Azure AI Engineer Associate

The Microsoft Certified Azure AI Engineer Associate certification is the latest addition in role-based Azure certifications path. The rising popularity of AI and machine learning is one of the prominent reasons for the emerging need for skilled AI professionals. The certification is suitable for IT professionals aspiring for the role of Azure AI Engineers. The responsibilities of an Azure AI Engineer would include analysis of the requirements of AI solutions alongside recommending proper tools and technologies. 

In addition, they should also implement the solutions that address the prerequisites of performance and scalability. The primary role of an Azure AI Engineer is the translation of the vision of solution architects for the development of end-to-end solutions. In the course of this process, the Azure AI Engineer should also work in collaboration with data engineers, AI developers, data scientists, and IoT specialists. 

The Azure AI Engineer Associate certification in the new Azure certifications path also evaluates the abilities of candidates for designing and implementing AI apps and agents. The certification exam tests the fluency of candidates in the use of Azure Bot Service and Microsoft Azure Cognitive Services. Another prominent exam topic refers to the components in the Azure AI portfolio alongside the available data storage options. 

Candidates aspiring for the role of Azure AI engineer would have to qualify one Azure certification exam. The title of the exam is “Designing and Implementing an Azure AI Solution.” The code for the exam is AI-100. Let us find out some additional details about the exam as follows.

Preparing for AI-100: Designing and Implementing an Azure AI Solution exam? Follow this comprehensive guide for the AI-100 EXAM PREPARATION and get ready to pass the exam.

AI-100: Designing and Implementing an Azure AI Solution

The AI-100 exam in the Azure certification path is the right option for aspiring Microsoft Azure AI professionals. Candidates could clear only one exam to achieve the credential of an “Azure AI Engineer Associate.” Candidates could find around 62 questions in which five questions would relate to a case study.

The format of the AI-100 certification exam can also include scenario-based questions with single and multiple response options. You could also find drag and drop questions as well as tasks for arranging in a proper sequence in the AI-100 exam. 

Prerequisites

There are no prerequisites for the “AI-100: Designing and Implementing an Azure AI Solution” certification exam. 

It is an associate-level exam, thereby implying that certification in Azure Fundamentals would be favorable. 

Domains covered in the AI-100 exam are:

Domain	Weightage
Analysis of Solution Requirements	25-30%
Designing AI Solutions	40-45%
Implementation and Monitoring of AI Solutions	25-30%

Exam Languages: The exam is available in four languages, such as English, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, and Korean.

Certification Cost: The total registration fee for the AI-100 certification exam is $165 USD.          

5. Azure Data Scientist Associate

The addition of Azure Data Scientist Associate track in the new Azure certifications path is also promising news for aspiring candidates. The role of an Azure data scientist involves the application of knowledge in data science and machine learning for implementing and running machine learning workloads on Azure. The specific abilities of an Azure Data Scientist Associate should be in the use of Azure Machine Learning Service. 

Azure Data Scientist would have to plan and create an ideal working environment for data science workloads on Microsoft Azure. In addition, they should also show their capabilities in conducting data experiments alongside training predictive models. The work of Azure Data Scientists also involves the management and optimization of machine learning models. Most important of all, they are also responsible for the deployment of machine learning models into production. 

Microsoft has only one Azure certification exam in the new role-based certification model for the Azure Data Scientist Associate job role. The title of the exam is “Designing and Implementing a Data Science Solution on Azure.” The code for the exam is DP-100. Let us reflect on some basic information regarding the certification exam.

DP-100: Designing and Implementing a Data Science Solution on Azure

DP-100 is the only exam in the new Azure certifications path which is suitable for the role of Azure Data Scientist Associate. Recently, Microsoft introduced some updates in the content of the DP-100 exam on January 22, 2020. The skills measured document on Microsoft Azure’s official website provides a clear idea regarding the updated exam format. 

The expected number of questions in the DP-100 exam is 40 to 60, and the response of different sources vary considerably. The total duration of the exam would be 180 minutes. The format of the exam involves multiple-choice questions as well as case studies with different questions. 

Single-choice questions based on the scenario could also be a part of the exam. In addition, candidates should also prepare for questions that require completion of code in the fill-in-the-blanks format. You could also find questions that involve tasks for arranging specific components in a particular sequence. 

Preparing for DP-100: Designing and Implementing a Data Science Solution on Azure exam? Follow this comprehensive guide for the DP-100 EXAM PREPARATION and get ready to pass the exam.

Prerequisites

The DP-100: Designing and Implementing a Data Science Solution on Azure is an associate-level certification exam. Therefore, candidates don’t need any previous certification to have eligibility to appear for the DP-100 exam. In addition, candidates should note that there are no associated exams with the DP-100 exam. You qualify the DP-100 exam, and you can earn the credential of an Azure Data Scientist Associate.       

Domains covered in the DP-100 exam are:

Domain	Weightage
Setting up an Azure Machine Learning Workspace	30-35%
Running Experiments and Training Models	25-30%
Optimization and Management of Models	20-25%
Deployment and Consumption of Models	20-25%

Exam Languages: The DP-100 exam is available in four languages, such as Korean, English, Simplified Chinese, and Japanese.

Certification Cost: The total registration fee for the DP-100 exam in the new Azure certifications path is $165 USD.

6. Azure Security Engineer Associate

Azure Security Engineer is the newest role added in the role-based Azure certification path. To become a Microsoft Certified Azure Security Engineer, you need to pass only one certification – Exam AZ-500: Microsoft Azure Security Technologies. On passing the certification exam for AZ-500, you will become a Microsoft Certified Azure Security Engineer and will receive a badge of Azure Security Engineer. Let’s have a look at the details of the AZ-500 exam.

Microsoft Azure Security Technologies (AZ-500)

Microsoft has recently launched AZ-500: Azure Security Technologies exam for Azure security engineers. You don’t need to pass any other certification to be eligible for the AZ-500 exam but it is recommended to pass AZ-900: Microsoft Azure Fundamentals exam. 

Prerequisites: Prerequisites for Microsoft Azure Security Technologies (AZ-500) exam are –

• Familiarity with the implementation of security controls on the Microsoft Azure platform
• In-depth knowledge of virtualization, cloud N-tier architecture, Amazon Kubernetes Service, and networking
• Ability to recognize and address vulnerabilities using several security tools; implementing security solutions for the protection of networks, applications, and data
• Expertise in scripting and automation, identity and access management, and maintaining security status

Domains Covered in the Exam are –

Domain	% Weight
Manage Identity and Access	20-25%
Implement Platform Protection	35-40%
Manage Security Operations	15-20%
Secure Data and Applications	30-35%

Exam Languages – English, Simplified Chinese, Japanese, and Korean

Certification Cost – USD 165 

Preparing for the exam AZ-500: Microsoft Azure Security Technologies? Check your current level of preparation with the Azure AZ-500 Practice Tests.

7. Azure Data Engineer Associate

The Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Engineer Associate is one of the latest additions to the Azure certifications path. The certification is ideal for individuals who want to pursue the role of Azure Data Engineers. Azure data engineers specialize in the design and implementation of data management, monitoring, security, and privacy.

Azure data engineers also show comprehensive fluency in the complete stack of Azure data services to address business requirements. Candidates have to clear two Azure certification exams to earn the tag of ‘Azure Data Engineer Associate.’ The two exams have the codes DP-200 and DP-201. Let us reflect further on the details of each certification exam.

DP-200: Implementing an Azure Data Solution

DP-200: Implementing an Azure Data Solution exam is suitable for Microsoft azure data engineers. The DP-200 came into the Azure certifications path on January 31st, 2019. The DP-200 certification exam is one out of the two exams for Azure Data Engineer Associate certification. It serves as a supporting examination for the other examination, i.e., DP-201 in the Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Engineer Associate exam.

Prerequisites

DP-200 exam is for the Azure data engineers responsible for implementing data solutions on the Azure cloud platform. The prerequisites for the DP-200 Azure certification exam are as follows.

1. The ability for implementing data solutions using Azure services.
2. No previous Azure certification is needed.

Domains covered in the DP-200 exam are – 

Domain	Weight
Implementing data storage solutions	40-45%
Managing and developing data processing	25-30%
Monitoring and optimization of data solutions	30-35%

Exam Languages: English, Japanese, Korean, and Simplified Chinese.

Certification Cost: $165 USD.

Preparing for DP-200: Implementing an Azure Data Solution exam? Follow this comprehensive guide for the DP-200 Exam Preparation and get ready to pass the exam.

DP-201: Designing an Azure Data Solution

Microsoft released the DP-201 exam in Azure certifications path on January 31st, 2019, alongside the DP-200 exam. The certification is a part of the Azure Data Engineer Associate job role in the new role-based certification path. Candidates have to clear DP-200 and DP-201 both to obtain the Azure Data Engineer Associate certification.

Prerequisites

The prerequisites for DP-201: Designing an Azure Data Solution exam are as follows.

1. The ability for designing solutions using Azure services.
2. No prior certification is needed.

One important highlight in the case of the DP-201 exam is the recommended practice of clearing the DP-200 exam before registering for DP-201.

Domains covered in the DP-201 exam are – 

Domain	Weight
Designing Azure data storage solutions	40-45%
Designing Azure data processing solutions	25-30%
Designing for data security and compliance	25-30%

Exam Languages: English, Simplified Chinese, Korean and Japanese.

Certification cost: $165 USD.

Preparing for DP-201: Designing an Azure Data Solution exam? Follow this comprehensive guide for the DP-201 Exam Preparation and get ready to pass the exam.

8. Azure Database Administrator Associate

The role of an Azure Database Administrator or Azure Database Management Specialist also includes implementation and management of operational aspects pertaining to cloud-native and hybrid data platform solutions on Microsoft SQL Server and Microsoft Azure data services.

In addition, Azure Database Administrators or database management specialists have to focus on management, performance monitoring, security, optimization of contemporary relational database solutions, and availability. 

Administering Relational Databases on Microsoft Azure Exam (DP-300) 

Microsoft DP-300: Administering Relational Databases on the Microsoft Azure certification exam is one of the new additions among existing role-based certifications. The new certification by Microsoft Azure would be the ideal exam for aspiring cloud-based database administrator and database management specialists.

Candidates will receive the Azure Database Administer Associate certification on clearing this exam. The role of certified candidates would primarily involve the management of relational databases on the cloud as well as on-premises, developed on top of Microsoft Azure data services and Microsoft SQL Server. The certification exam is presently in the beta stage, thereby implying that there would be no facility of immediate scoring.

Prerequisites

As you all know, there are no mandatory prerequisites for the Azure certification exams. The recommended prerequisites for the new Azure certification exam for the database administrator role include the following.

• Skills for using a variety of tools and methods for performing day-to-day database administration tasks.
• At least two years of industry involvement in database administration.
• Minimum of one year of hands-on experience with Microsoft Azure Cloud ecosystem.

Domains Covered in the Exam

Domain	Weighting
Planning and implementation of data platform resources	15% to 20%
Implementation of a secure environment	15% to 20%
Monitoring and optimization of operational resources	15% to 20%
Optimization of query performance	5% to 10%
Performing automation of tasks	10% to 15%
Planning and implementation of a High Availability and Disaster Recovery (HADR) environment	15% to 20%
Performing administration through the use of T-SQL	10% to 15%

Exam Languages- English

Registration Cost- $165 USD

9. Azure Architect for SAP Workloads

The addition of Azure Architect with SAP Workloads track in the new Azure certifications path is also promising news for aspiring candidates. The role of an Azure Architect with SAP workloads involves the application of knowledge in industry standards that are specific to the long-term operation of an SAP solution.

Microsoft has only one Azure certification exam in the new role-based certification model for the Azure Architect for SAP Workloads job role. The title of the exam is “Planning and Administering Microsoft Azure for SAP Workloads”. The code for the exam is AZ-120. Let us reflect on some basic information regarding the certification exam.

Planning and Administering Microsoft Azure for SAP Workloads (AZ-120)

The AZ-120 Azure certification exam is ideal for architects and engineers having knowledge regarding SAP Landscape Certification Process. In addition, it also tests the knowledge of candidates about the industry standards related to long-term operations of SAP solutions. The AZ-120 exam is the sole requirement to achieve the Microsoft Certified: Azure for SAP Workloads Specialty certification. 

Prerequisites

The prerequisites for Planning and Administering Microsoft Azure for SAP Workloads (AZ-120) exam are:

• In-depth experience and knowledge of SAP applications, SAP NetWeaver, S/4HANA, SAP HANA, OS Servers for SAP applications and databases, and SAP BW.
• Candidates should also have fluency in Azure Portal, virtualization, ARM templates, cloud infrastructure, operating systems, storage structures, disaster recovery design, networking, data protection concepts, and high availability design.
• An Azure Architect or Azure Administrator certification is highly recommended alongside Linux and SAP HANA certifications

Domains Covered in the Exam

Domain	Weighting
Migration of SAP Workloads to Azure	10-15%
Designing an Azure Solution for supporting SAP workloads	20-25%
Development and deployment of Azure for SAP workloads	35-40%
Validation of Azure infrastructure for SAP workloads	10-15%
Enabling operations of an Azure SAP architecture	10-15%

Exam Languages – English, Japanese, Korean, Simplified Chinese

Registration Cost – $165 USD   

10. Azure IoT Developer

Azure IoT developer is the new role added in the list of role-based Microsoft Azure certifications. This new role gives a promising career option to the IoT developers who are responsible for the implementation and coding required to develop and maintain the cloud and edge of an IoT solution, to set up the physical devices, and to maintain the devices throughout the life cycle.

Microsoft has only one Azure certification exam in the new role-based certification model for the Azure Architect job role. The title of the exam is “Microsoft Azure IoT Developer”. One who clears the exam receives the badge of Microsoft Certified:  Azure IoT Developer Specialty and becomes Microsoft Certified Azure IoT Developer Specialist. The code for the exam is AZ-220. Let us reflect on some basic information regarding the certification exam.

Microsoft Azure IoT Developer Exam (AZ-220)

The Microsoft Azure IoT Developer Beta Exam, AZ-220, is a specialty-level Azure certification. The exam is ideal for candidates aspiring to become an Azure IoT Developer. The job role of an Azure IoT Developer involves the implementation of IoT solutions as well as coding needed for creating and maintaining the cloud and edge aspects of an IoT solution.

Prerequisites

The prerequisites for AZ-220 Azure certification exam are,

• Thorough knowledge of the implementation of Azure services for developing an IoT solution.
• Ability to recognize Azure IoT service configuration settings in the code part of an IoT solution.
• Skills for performing particular IoT coding tasks in at least one programming language supported by Azure such as Python, C#, C or Node.

Domains Covered in the Exam

Domain	Weighting
Implementation of IoT solution infrastructure	15-20%
Provisioning and management of devices	20-25%
Implementation of Edge	15-20%
Data processing and management	15-20%
Monitoring, troubleshooting and optimizing IoT solutions	15-20%
Implementation of security	15-20%

Exam Languages – English

Registration Cost – $165 USD

11. Azure Solution Architect Expert

As per the new role-based Azure certifications path, for Azure Solution Architect Expert role,  you need to pass two certifications – Exam AZ-300: Microsoft Azure Architect Technologies and Exam AZ-301: Microsoft Azure Architect Design.  After passing the certification exams for AZ-300 and AZ-301, you will become Microsoft Certified Azure Solution Architect Expert and will receive a badge of Azure Solution Architect Expert.

AZ-303 and AZ-304 exams are the new replacements of the AZ-301 and AZ-302 exams for the Microsoft Azure Architect Expert role.

Microsoft Azure Architect Technologies (AZ-300) 

On September 24, 2018 – Microsoft released the beta version of Microsoft Azure Architect Technologies (AZ-300). This certification comes under the Azure Solutions Architect Expert role in the new role-based Azure certifications path. You need to pass the AZ-300 exam first to become an Azure Solutions Architect Expert. It provides knowledge in architecting solutions that are reliable and secure. 

Note that the beta version for the AZ-300 exam has been retired now.

Prerequisites: Prerequisites for Microsoft released Microsoft Azure Architect Technologies (AZ-300) are –

• You should have knowledge of security, identity, data management, and IT operations.
• One year experience is also required for this certification.
• You should also have knowledge of DevOps, Azure development and Azure administration.

Domains Covered in the Exam are –

Domain	% Weight
Deploy and Configure Infrastructure	25-30%
Implement Workloads and Security	20-25%
Architect Cloud Technology Solutions	5-10%
Create and Deploy Apps	5-10%
Implement Authentication and Secure Data	5-10%
Develop for the Cloud	20-25%

Exam Languages: English, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, and Korean

Certification Cost: USD 165

Preparing for Azure Exam AZ-300: Microsoft Azure Architect Technologies exam? Start with AZ-300 Free Test Now.

Microsoft Azure Architect Design (AZ-301)

Microsoft also released Microsoft Azure Architect Design (AZ-301) in beta on September 24, 2018. This certification also comes under the Azure Solutions Architect Expert role in the new role-based Azure certifications path. After the AZ-300 exam, you need to pass the AZ-301 exam to become an Azure Solutions Architect Expert.

Prerequisites: Prerequisites for Microsoft Azure Architect Design (AZ-301) are the same as in Microsoft Azure Architect Technologies (AZ-300). But one should have passed the AZ-300 exam to take the AZ-301 exam.

Domains covered in the exam are –

Domain	% Weight
Determine Workload Requirements	10-15%
Design for Identity and Security	20-25%
Design a Data Platform Solution	15-20%
Design a Business Continuity Strategy	15-20%
Design for Deployment, Migration, and Integration	10-15%
Design an Infrastructure Strategy	15-20%

Exam Languages: English, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, and Korean

Certification Cost: USD 165

Try Now: Free Practice Tests For AZ-301: Microsoft Azure Architect Design Exam

Microsoft Azure Architect Technologies Exam (AZ-303)

The AZ-303 Azure Certification exam is the updated version of the existing certification for Azure Solution Architects, AZ-300. The exam tests capabilities of candidates to advise stakeholders and convert business requirements into solutions with higher security, reliability, and scalability. The AZ-303 exam will be available on or around June 29, 2020. 

Prerequisites

The important prerequisites for the AZ-303 exam are as follows,

• Detailed knowledge and comprehensive experience in IT operations such as virtualization, business continuity, networking, identity, data platform, governance, disaster recovery, and budgeting.
• High-level expertise in Azure administration.
• Hands-on experience in DevOps processes and Azure development processes.

Domains Covered in the Exam

Domain	Weighting
Implement and monitor an Azure infrastructure	50-55%
Implementation of management and security solutions	25-30%
Implementation of solutions for apps	10-15%
Implementation and management of data platforms	10-15%

Exam Languages – English

Registration Cost – $165 USD

Microsoft Azure Architect Design Beta Exam (AZ-304)

The AZ-304 beta exam is the updated version of the existing Azure certification for Microsoft Azure solution architects, AZ-304. Candidates for this exam will have to prove their expertise in providing recommendations to stakeholders and translation of business requirements into highly secure, reliable, and scalable solutions. 

Prerequisites

The important prerequisites covered in the AZ-304 exam are as follows,

• Expertise in skills for Azure administration.
• Practical experience in Azure development processes and DevOps processes.
• In-depth knowledge and experience regarding IT operations such as networking, identity, governance, security, virtualization, disaster recovery, budgeting, and business continuity.

Domains Covered in the Exam

Domains	Weighting
Design monitoring	10-15%
Designing identity and security	25-30%
Designing data storage	15-20%
Designing for business continuity	10-15%
Designing infrastructure	25-30%

Exam Languages – English

Registration Cost – $165 USD

12. Azure DevOps Engineer Expert

One who has already received the badge of Azure Administrator Associate or Azure Developer Associate can become an Azure DevOps Engineer Expert. Whether be the Azure Administrator Associate or Azure Developer Associate, the candidate needs to pass Exam AZ-400: Microsoft Azure DevOps Solutions to become Azure DevOps Engineer.

Let’s have a look at the details of the AZ-400 exam.

Microsoft Azure DevOps Solutions (AZ-400) 

Microsoft also released Microsoft Azure DevOps Solutions (AZ-400) – BETA Version in beta on September 24, 2018. This certification also comes under the Azure DevOps Engineer Expert role. After receiving the badge of Azure Administrator Associate or Azure Developer Associate, one needs to pass the AZ-400 exam to become an Azure DevOps Engineer Expert.

Prerequisites: Prerequisites for Microsoft Azure DevOps Solutions (AZ-400) exam are –

• Familiarity with both the Azure development and Azure administration and expertise in at least one of these areas
• Ability to design and implement DevOps practices for infrastructure as code, version control, configuration management, compliance, release, build, and testing with the use of Azure technologies.
• Proficiency in Agile practices

Domains Covered in the Exam are –

Domain	% Weight
Design a DevOps Strategy	20-25%
Implement DevOps Development Processes	20-25%
Implement Continuous Integration	10-15%
Implement Continuous Delivery	10-15%
Implement Dependency Management	5-10%
Implement Application Infrastructure	15-20%
Implement Continuous Feedback	10-15%

Exam Languages – English, Japanese, Simplified Chinese, and Korean

Certification Cost – USD 165

Preparing for Azure Exam AZ-400: Microsoft Azure DevOps Solutions exam? Check your current level of preparation with the Azure AZ-400 Practice Tests.

13. Microsoft Certified Azure AI Fundamentals

The increasing emphasis of Azure on ML and AI has resulted in the creation of many AI-based job roles. Candidates should qualify the newly launched AI-900 certification exam for this fundamental level role.

AI-900: Microsoft Azure AI Fundamentals

The AI-900: Microsoft Azure, AI Fundamentals certification, is one of the recent additions in Azure’s certification model. It is helpful in proving the fundamental knowledge of candidates in artificial intelligence and machine learning concepts. You would receive the Microsoft Certified Azure AI Fundamentals certifications by qualifying this exam.

Prerequisites

Candidates should note that there are no specific prerequisites for the AI-900 Azure certification. AI-900 exam is suitable for candidates from technical and non-technical backgrounds. However, the following prerequisites can help you gain a better chance of qualifying the exam.

• General programming knowledge or experience.
• Knowledge of at least one high-level programming language.
• Basic awareness of common ML and AI concepts and their relation with Azure.

Domains Covered in the Exam are,

Domain	%Weight
Describe AI workloads and considerations	15% to 20%
Describe fundamental principles of machine learning on Azure	30% to 35%
Describe features of computer vision workloads on Azure	15% to 20%
Describe features of Natural Language Processing (NLP) workloads on Azure	15% to 20%
Describe features of conversational AI workloads on Azure	15% to 20%

Exam languages: English

Certification Cost: $99 USD

Preparing for the AI-900: Azure AI Fundamentals exam? Follow this comprehensive guide for the AI-900 Exam Preparation and get ahead to pass the exam.

14. Microsoft Certified Azure Data Fundamentals

Candidates aspiring to work with data on the Azure Cloud platform could turn to this fundamental role introduced recently in Azure certifications. You have to qualify the newly launched DP-900 certification exam only for this role.

DP-900: Microsoft Azure Data Fundamentals

The DP-900 Microsoft Azure Data Fundamentals is the ideal certification for any aspiring cloud professional who wants to work with data. The certification proves the skills and knowledge of candidates about core data concepts. You can earn the Microsoft Certified Azure Data Fundamentals certifications by qualifying the DP-900 certification.

Prerequisites

Candidates don’t need any specific prerequisites for the DP-900 certification exam. On the other hand, the following knowledge and experience requirements can be helpful for candidates in their exam preparations.

• Familiarity with basic concepts on relational and non-relational data.
• Knowledge of different types of data workloads.

Domains Covered in the Exam are,

Domain	%Weight
Describe core data concepts	15% to 20%
Describe how to work with relational data on Azure	25% to 30%
Describe how to work with non-relational data on Azure	25% to 30%
Describe an analytics workload  on Azure	25% to 30%

Exam Languages: English

Certification Cost: $99 USD

Preparing for the DP-900: Microsoft Azure Data Fundamentals exam? Follow this comprehensive guide for the DP-900 Exam Preparation and get ahead to pass the exam.

List of the Recently Expired Role-based Azure Certifications

In 2018, when Microsoft first brought the role-based Azure certifications, there were two certifications for each role. But now, as per the feedback from the candidates, Microsoft has expired few certification exams and launched the new ones. We’ve covered all the latest certifications for each role above, let’s have a look at the expired Azure certifications for the Administrator Associate and Developer Associate role:

• AZ-100 Microsoft Azure Infrastructure and Deployment
• AZ-101 Microsoft Azure Integration and Security
• AZ-200 Microsoft Azure Developer Core Solutions
• AZ-201 Microsoft Azure Developer Advanced Solutions
• AZ-202 Microsoft Azure Developer Certification Transition
• AZ-302: Microsoft Azure Solutions Architect

Other Newly Launched Microsoft Azure Certifications

There are 7 other newly launched or modified Microsoft Azure certifications that contribute credit towards MCP, MCSA or MCSE. Let’s have a quick look over these new Microsoft Azure certifications.

Exam 70-473: Designing and Implementing Cloud Data Platform Solutions

The exam 70-473 is intended for those who have expertise in designing and implementing Microsoft data platform solutions. The candidates should have some relevant experience with cloud-based platform solutions.

The exam 70-473 includes the exam objectives such as Design and implement database solutions for Microsoft SQL Database and Microsoft Azure SQL Server (20-25%), Design for high availability, scalability, and disaster recovery (25-30%), Designing and Implementing Security (25-30%), and Monitoring and Managing Database Implementations in Azure (25-30%).

Note that the exam 70-473 is already retired on June 30, 2019.

Exam 70-475: Designing and Implementing Big Data Analytics Solutions

The exam 70-475 is intended for the data architects, data scientists, data management professionals, and data developers who are experts in designing big data analytics solutions on Microsoft Azure. The candidates are required to have some significant work experience in big data analytics solutions.

The exam 70-475 includes the exam objectives such as Designing big data real-time processing solutions (30-35%), Designing big data batch processing and interactive solutions (30-35%), Operationalizing end to end cloud analytics solutions (30-35%).

Note that the exam 70-475 will be retired on June 30, 2019.

Exam 70-487: Developing Microsoft Azure and Web Services

The exam 70-487 is intended for the developer who has a minimum of 3-5 years of experience in developing web services along with at least one year of experience in developing Azure solutions and web APIs.

The exam 70-487 includes the exam objectives such as Querying and Manipulating data by using Entity Framework (20-25%), Accessing Data (20-25%), Designing and Implementing Web Services (!5-20%), Creating and Consuming Web API based services (20-25%), and Deploying Web Applications and Services (15-20%)

Exam 70-537: Configuring and Operating a Hybrid Cloud with Microsoft Azure Stack

The exam 70-537 is intended for the infrastructure administrators and service administrators who provide cloud services by using Microsoft Azure Stack. The candidates should have some significant experience in operating and managing Azure Stack environments. The candidate should also have an understanding of hybrid cloud resources, Windows Server 2016, and Microsoft Azure.

The exam 70-537 includes the exam objectives such as Configuring IaaS and PaaS for an Azure Stack Environment (25-30%), Deploying and Integrating an Azure Stack Environment (20-25%), Monitoring and Maintaining an Azure Stack Environment (20-25%), and Providing Services to and Enabling DevOps for Azure Stack Tenants (25-30%).

Exam 70-774: Perform Cloud Data Science with Azure Machine Learning

The exam 70-774 is intended for the data analysts or data scientists who are experts in building and deploying intelligent solutions using Azure cloud services. The candidates should have good knowledge of machine learning, Azure data services, and data science processes.

The exam 70-774 includes the exam objectives such as Developing Machine learning Models, Preparing Data for Analysis in Azure Machine Learning and Export from Azure Machine Learning, Using Other Services for Machine Learning, and Operationalizing and Managing Azure Machine Learning Services.

Exam 70-775: Perform Data Engineering on Microsoft HD Insight

The exam 70-775 is intended for the data architects, data engineers, data developers and data scientists who are responsible for the implementation of big data engineering workflows on HDInsight. The candidates should have some relevant work experience in big data analytics solutions.

The exam 70-775 includes the exam objectives such as Implementing Big Data Batch Processing Solutions, Administrating and Provisioning HDInsight Clusters, Implementing Big Data Real-Time Processing Solutions, and Implementing Big Data Interactive Processing Solutions.

Note that the exam 70-775 will be retired on June 30, 2019.

Exam 70-776: Engineering Data with Microsoft Cloud Services

The exam 70-776 is intended for the candidates who are responsible for designing analytical solutions and building operationalized solutions on Azure. The candidates should have some relevant work experience in handling data engineering issues.

The exam 70-776 includes the exam objectives such as Designing and Implementing Analytics by Using Azure Data Lake (25-30%), Designing and Implementing Cloud-based Integration by using Azure Data Factory (15-20%), Designing and Implementing Complex Event Processing by Using Azure Stream Analytics (15-20%), Designing and Implementing Azure SQL Data Warehouse Solutions (25-30%), Managing and Maintaining Azure SQL Data Warehouse, Azure Data Factory, Azure Data Lake, and Azure Stream Analytics (20-25%).

How to Prepare for New Microsoft Azure Certifications?

To prepare for new Microsoft Azure certifications, Online classes and classroom training are the best way to get prepared. After certification training, you can also take practice tests for this certification on various platforms. Below are the few steps you can choose to prepare well for the new Microsoft Azure Certifications Path.

1. Go through the exam detail: You can obtain information about the certifications that come under the new Microsoft Azure Certifications Path. This will be helpful for you to check the criteria.
2. Check Course Content and Prerequisites: Course content is the key aspect to prepare for any Azure certifications. You should also check prerequisites before opting the new Microsoft Azure Certification Path.
3. Check Exam Overview: Exam overview contains exam information, objectives, and domains. Before opting Microsoft Azure certification training, check exam overview.
4. Take help of Exam Guide: To know more deeply about Microsoft Certification roadmap, also take help of exam guide. It will help you to understand the various components of Microsoft Azure Certification Path.
5. Study Certifications Whitepapers: Whitepapers are the key points to prepare for the Microsoft Azure Certifications Path. You should study certification Whitepapers to clear your view about the exam objectives in the Microsoft Azure Certification Path.
6. Read recommendation books: To know more about Microsoft Azure Certifications, you must read the recommended books. It will be great to follow instructions given in books to follow Microsoft Azure Certifications Path.
7. Take sample questions and practice tests: After preparing for new Azure certifications path, you can also check sample questions and take practice tests.

Final Words

The need for professional certifications for the Microsoft Azure platform is prominently evident due to the increasing expanse of Azure services. The new assortment of certification exams by Microsoft Azure provides considerable opportunities for aspiring IT professionals to establish their careers.

Professional development becomes an easier task with the help of certifications, especially from market leaders such as Microsoft Azure. Candidates should choose the right certification track according to their skills and career preferences. The key to success in the exams in the Azure certifications path is the right guidance, training, and support. Choose the right training course and ensure a bright career for yourself!   

If you were confused about ‘which azure certification should I do first’ this article would have helped you. You can also write your queries in the comment section. We will be happy to assist you to understand the latest Azure certification path along with azure career path. If you are preparing for these new role-based Azure certifications, Whizlabs Azure Certifications training courses will help you prepare and pass the new Azure certifications. Join us now to become a Microsoft Certified Azure professional.

Want to know more about these new Microsoft Azure certifications? Just submit your questions in the comment section below or start a discussion at Whizlabs Forum to get answers by the experts.