If you are a newbie in the cloud domain or about to begin your journey with Azure, then the high chances are that you are digging deep into a massive list of certifications and don’t know where to start.
Speaking of which, two of the most sought-after certifications are the AZ-900: Microsoft Fundamentals certification and DP-900 certification (Microsoft Azure Data Fundamentals).
While both these certifications belong to the starter pack of Azure certs and hold some similarities, they differ in terms of skills imparted, domain covered, target audience, scope, and more.
This blog will give a panoramic view of DP-900 vs. AZ-900: certification overviews, similarities, differences, and factors to consider while opting for one.
Let’s dig in.
Overview of the AZ-900 exam
AZ-900 exam or Microsoft Fundamentals certification helps you showcase a fundamental understanding of cloud concepts, focusing on Microsoft Azure. This examination serves as a typical entry point for those pursuing a career in Azure.
Your proficiency should extend to elucidating Azure’s architectural components and services, encompassing:
- Compute
- Networking
- Storage
Furthermore, your capabilities should extend to describing the features and tools employed to ensure the security, governance, and administration of Azure.
Your qualifications should demonstrate competence and practical experience in specific areas of IT, including:
- Infrastructure management
- Database management
- Software development
Why the AZ-900 exam?
The main intent of taking AZ-900 certification is to validate foundational knowledge and skills in cloud services and Microsoft Azure specifically. And some other reasons such as:
Enhances Fundamental Knowledge
- Ideal for those starting a career in cloud computing
- Strengthens foundational understanding of cloud concepts
Informed Decision-Making
- Clarifies areas of specialization within Microsoft, such as administration, solution development, security, data, and Azure AI
- Helps candidates choose a specific focus based on personal interests
Salary Advancement
- Increases earning potential compared to non-certified peers.
- Positions individuals for higher responsibilities in cloud computing roles
| Azure Certified | Salary (USD) |
| Azure DevOps Engineer | 110365 |
| Azure Cloud Architect | 120275 |
| Azure Data Engineer | 111526 |
| Azure Cloud Engineer | 114631 |
Skill Improvement
- Enhances cloud computing skills, contributing to company security and staying updated on the latest technologies.
- Requires yearly renewal to ensure ongoing proficiency.
Access to Higher Certifications
- Serves as a stepping stone to associate-level certificates.
- Helps individuals qualify for advanced topics, associate-level, and Azure administrator certifications
Also Read: Tips for passing the AZ-900 exam: Microsoft Azure Fundamentals Certification
Domains covered
The Microsoft Fundamentals certification covers three domains:
| Domains | Weightage |
| Azure architecture and services | 35–40% |
| Cloud concepts | 25–30% |
| Azure management and governance | 30–35% |
Overview of the DP-900 certification
The DP-900 Certification or Microsoft Azure Data Fundamentals certification allows you to showcase your understanding of core data concepts and associated Microsoft Azure data services. As an exam candidate, you are expected to be acquainted with the self-paced or instructor-led learning materials of Exam DP-900.
Designed for individuals entering the realm of cloud-based data work, this exam requires familiarity with:
- Relational and non-relational data concepts.
- Various data workloads, including transactional and analytical tasks.
While Azure Data Fundamentals serve as valuable preparation for other Azure role-based certifications like Azure Database Administrator Associate or Azure Data Engineer Associate, it is not a prerequisite.
Why the DP-900 certification?
Knowledge Enrichment with Azure Data Fundamentals Certification
- Gain a comprehensive understanding of data management in the Azure cloud.
- Learn how to implement data concepts using relevant Azure services.
Pathway to Associate-Level Certifications
- Attaining Azure DP-900 certification opens doors to applying for associate-level certifications.
Validation of Skills through Certification
- DP-900 certification validates your skills in the database field.
- Enhance career prospects with recognized proficiency in Azure data management.
Comprehensive Database Knowledge
- Gain insightful knowledge of various database types, including semi-structured, unstructured, and structured.
Lucrative Salaries in Database Roles:
- Azure Data Engineer and Azure Database Administrator roles offer average salaries of $140,000 and $110,000 per year, respectively.
- Combine Azure Data Fundamentals with role-based certifications for competitive fresher salaries.
Mandatory Certification for Entry into the Data Field:
- Experience is crucial for growth, but Azure Data Fundamentals DP-900 certification is mandatory for entry.
- Essential for individuals passionate about understanding and working with data
Domains Covered in DP-900 Exam
The Microsoft Azure Data Fundamentals Certification covers four domains.
| Domains | Weightage |
| Core data concepts | 25–30% |
| considerations for non-relational data on Azure | 15–20% |
| Analytics workload on Azure | 25–30% |
| Considerations for Relational Data on Azure | 20–25% |
DP-900 vs AZ-900: Similarities
The AZ-900 exam and DP-900 certifications cater to individuals seeking an entry-level understanding of Azure’s diverse services and cloud computing principles. Despite their distinct focuses, DP-900 and AZ-900 share several commonalities, making them accessible gateways for beginners exploring the expansive realm of Microsoft Azure.
Foundational Level
Both DP-900 and AZ-900 are foundational certifications designed for those new to Azure and eager to establish fundamental knowledge of Microsoft’s cloud services.
No Prerequisites
Candidates can pursue DP-900 and AZ-900 without stringent prerequisites, making these certifications accessible to individuals without prior Azure experience.
Understanding Azure Basics
Both exams assess candidates’ grasp of crucial Azure concepts, services, and fundamental cloud computing principles, ensuring a solid foundation in Azure technologies.
Preparation Materials
Microsoft provides comprehensive, self-paced, and instructor-led learning materials for DP-900 and AZ-900, including documentation, online courses, and practice exams to aid candidates in their preparation.
Gateway Certifications
Earning DP-900 or AZ-900 is a gateway to advanced Azure certifications, offering a natural progression for individuals aspiring to delve deeper into specific Azure domains such as data, development, or administration.
Beneficial for Various Roles
DP-900 focuses on Azure’s data concepts and services, while AZ-900 provides a broader overview of Azure services across various domains. Both certifications, however, prove beneficial for individuals pursuing roles in cloud computing, data, development, or administration within the Azure ecosystem.
Also Read: Free Practice Microsoft AZ-900 exam questions
DP-900 vs AZ-900: Difference
DP-900 certification (Microsoft Azure Data Fundamentals) is tailored for those interested in data-related roles within Azure, focusing on core data concepts and services. On the other hand, the AZ-900 exam (Microsoft Azure Fundamentals certification) provides a generalized overview of Azure services across various domains, suitable for beginners exploring different roles within the Azure ecosystem.
Here’s a detailed analysis of the differences between DP-900 and AZ-900:
| Aspect | DP-900 | AZ-900 |
| Focus | Data-related concepts within Azure | Broad overview of various Azure services |
| Content Areas | Relational and non-relational data, different types of data workloads, working with data using Azure services | Compute, storage, networking, security, cloud concepts, Azure pricing, basic governance |
| Target Audience | Individuals working with data in the cloud, interested in data-related roles | Individuals seeking a general understanding of Azure services, suitable for beginners |
| Path to specialization | Foundational step for roles like Azure Data Engineer or Azure Database Administrator | Acts as a foundation but doesn’t specialize, serves as a stepping stone for various Azure roles |
| Key Distinctions | Focuses on data-specific aspects of Azure | Offers a broad introduction to Azure services |
DP-900 vs AZ-900: Technical knowledge required
The AZ-900 exam and DP-900 certifications demand distinct levels of technical knowledge, aligning with their respective areas of emphasis.
The AZ-900 exam is designed for individuals new to cloud computing and Azure services, necessitating minimal technical knowledge.
It provides a comprehensive overview of cloud computing concepts and Azure services, validating foundational understanding without requiring hands-on experience with the Azure platform. The certification avoids delving into technical details, programming languages, or tools.
In contrast, the DP-900 certification mandates a basic understanding of data concepts and entails technical knowledge. Covering a wide array of topics related to data and data services on the Azure cloud platform, it includes core data concepts, data analytics, and data integration.
The DP-900 aims to validate foundational knowledge of core data concepts and their implementation using Azure data services. While not requiring extensive technical expertise or programming skills, it does demand familiarity with data processing concepts and some technical knowledge related to data services.
DP-900 vs AZ-900: Background Enhancement
Deciding between the AZ-900 and DP-900 certifications hinges on your background, experience, and career goals.
For those with limited to no experience in cloud computing or data services, the AZ-900 certification offers a broad introduction to fundamental concepts, making it an excellent starting point. Individuals aspiring to cloud administration, architecture, or engineering roles will benefit from AZ-900’s comprehensive coverage.
On the other hand, if you possess some experience in cloud computing or data services, the DP-900 certification may be more fitting.
Focused on data services, DP-900 requires a basic understanding of data concepts, catering to those with a foundational technical background. Moreover, for individuals interested in pursuing careers in data analytics or data engineering, the DP-900 certification provides a solid foundation in these areas.
If you are uncertain about the best fit, considering taking practice exams for AZ-900 and DP-900 can provide valuable insights into the content covered, aiding you in making a well-informed decision. Ultimately, the choice between these certifications should align with your specific level of experience, professional interests, and long-term career aspirations.
Read More: Microsoft Azure Fundamentals: AZ-900 hands-on labs
DP-900 vs AZ-900: Job Outlook
According to research findings, obtaining the Azure Fundamentals certification (AZ-900 exam) can significantly impact salary negotiations, with a salary range spanning $80,000 to $116,500. In 2023, research indicated that individuals holding the Azure Fundamentals certification earned an average salary of $110,635.
Job opportunities associated with this certification include:
- Cloud DevOps Engineer
- Cloud Systems Engineer
- Cloud Security Engineer
- Cloud Consultant
Indeed.com lists specific positions requiring the Microsoft Certified Azure Fundamentals certification, such as Microsoft Security Consultant, MS Dynamics 365 CRM Developer, Admin, Engineer, IT Network Administrator, and MSP Consultant specializing in Microsoft 365 & CyberSecurity.
Conversely, Glassdoor reports that the average salary for roles requiring the Microsoft Azure Data Fundamentals (DP-900 certification) is approximately $121,000 annually. The Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Fundamentals certification is tailored for individuals new to working with data in the cloud.
The Azure Fundamentals certification encompasses fundamental Azure concepts, while the DP-900 certification is designed for those new to working with data in the cloud. Candidates are encouraged to be familiar with the exam’s self-paced or instructor-led learning materials.
Top job opportunities associated with DP-900 include:
- Cloud Administrator ($95,000 per year)
- Data Analyst ($71,000 per year)
- Data Engineer ($117,000 per year)
- BI Developer ($91,000 per year)
- Cloud Solution Architect ($142,000 per year)
- Data Scientist ($121,000 per year)
Also Read: Free Practice Exam Questions on Microsoft DP-900 Exam
Factors to consider when going DP-900 vs AZ-900
The choice between the AZ-900 exam and DP-900 certifications should be made by carefully weighing several factors, including long-term career goals, prior experience, technical proficiency, available time and resources, and personal interests.
This thoughtful consideration will assist you in determining the certification that aligns best with your circumstances. Key factors to bear in mind include:
Career Goals
- DP-900: Suitable for those interested in data analytics or data engineering.
- AZ-900: Ideal for those drawn to cloud administration, cloud engineering, or cloud architecture.
Prior Experience
- DP-900: Suited for individuals with more experience in data services or cloud computing.
- AZ-900: A good starting point for those with limited experience in either area.
Technical Knowledge
- DP-900: Requires a basic understanding of data concepts and some technical knowledge related to data services.
- AZ-900: Demands less technical knowledge.
Time and Resources
- DP-900: More focused but may require additional time and effort due to its narrower scope.
- AZ-900: Covers a broader range of topics, potentially necessitating more preparation time.
Personal Interests
- Consider your interests and explore which areas of cloud computing or data services intrigue you the most.
Summary
I hope this blog helps you get a holistic view of the DP-900 vs AZ-900 scenario. While both are fundamental courses, helping you step into the Azure world and paving the way for advanced skill sets and certifications, both differ in domain knowledge, job outlook, technical knowledge, and target audience. Also, before you choose one, make sure you know the core concepts covered and if they align with your overall career goals.
If you want to dive deeper into these courses and see which best fits you, join Whizlabs training programs – nuanced prep gateways for the AZ-900 exam and DP-900 certification. We bring you practice papers with exhaustive answers, video lectures designed by the industry’s best minds, and hands-on labs and Azure sandboxes for you to put theory into practice.
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