Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) is an entry-level certification for the Azure cloud platform that provides "zero barriers to entry and access to cloud fundamentals."

1. Introduction to the AZ-900 certification

Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) is an entry-level cloud computing certification launched by Microsoft, focusing on verifying practitioners' understanding of the core concepts, service types, pricing models, security compliance, and basic usage scenarios of the Microsoft Azure cloud platform.

AZ-900 does not require programming or operations experience, and is an entry-level qualification that is entirely focused on "cloud basics." It is suitable for all those who want to learn about Azure cloud platform and embark on the path of cloud computing learning, and is also the "starting point certification" of Microsoft Azure certification system.

Against the backdrop of cloud computing becoming the mainstream trend in enterprise IT, both technical and non-technical positions require a basic understanding of cloud platforms. The core positioning of AZ-900 is to cultivate "fundamental cognitions of Azure cloud platform" rather than "practitioners of cloud technology."

It does not examine complex configuration or development capabilities, but helps learners establish an overall understanding of cloud computing, including basic concepts of cloud, core services of Azure, how to choose services based on needs, and security and compliance knowledge in cloud environments, laying the foundation for subsequent learning of Azure technology certification or engaging in cloud related work.

In the enterprise IT department, AZ-900 certificate holders can understand why it is necessary to migrate local servers to Azure; Can distinguish the applicable scenarios of Azure virtual machines and App Services; Can understand Azure pricing calculator and make preliminary estimates of the cost of using cloud services; When communicating with the technical team, be able to understand basic terms such as "storage account" and "virtual network" to avoid communication barriers.

2. The Competitive Edge of an AZ-900 Certification

AZ-900 is Microsoft's only cloud certification without any threshold, with low exam difficulty and cost. It can quickly help beginners establish cloud computing awareness and avoid being discouraged by "technical complexity." It is the best starting point for embarking on the path of cloud learning.

Although it does not directly correspond to technical positions, the AZ-900 certificate can prove a basic understanding of cloud computing. When recruiting non-technical or junior technical positions, holding this certificate can make the resume more prominent, especially in Microsoft partners or enterprises using Azure, where it is highly recognized.

The cloud concept, service classification, and security foundation covered by AZ-900 are the core foundations for learning higher-level Azure certification. Taking AZ-900 first can significantly reduce the difficulty of subsequent certification learning and avoid the frustration of "learning complex technologies directly from scratch."

Holders of AZ-900 certification can join the Microsoft Developer Community, access free learning resources, participate in cloud technology introductory activities, meet new players in the same field, and accumulate resources for further in-depth learning or career development.

3. Core Components of the AZ-900 Certification

For all those who wish to enter the Microsoft Azure cloud ecosystem, regardless of their technical background or professional role, the Microsoft Azure Fundamentals certification is a perfect starting point and an indispensable entry credential.

Unlike certifications that require a strong technical foundation and practical experience, the core goal of AZ-900 is not to train you to become a cloud architect or administrator, but to build a unified and clear conceptual framework for cloud computing and Azure platform. It provides you with an accurate 'cloud world map,' allowing you to understand core terminology, grasp basic logic, and gain insights into core values when discussing cloud projects with technical teams, clients, or management.

The fundamental concept of cloud computing is the cornerstone of the entire certification process. You will first learn the essence of cloud computing and understand how its core advantages such as "on-demand self-service, elastic scalability, and pay as you go," bring agility and cost-effectiveness to enterprises. At the same time, you will have a clear understanding of the differences and applicable scenarios of the three major service models of IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS, and be able to make preliminary judgments based on business needs; in addition, the characteristics and selection criteria of deployment models such as public cloud, private cloud, and hybrid cloud are also the focus of this section.

Azure Core Services provides you with a "tour" of the vast Azure service family, understanding the basic uses of the most commonly used services in key areas such as computing, storage, networking, and databases. You don't need to learn how to configure them, but you need to know what problems they can solve. At the same time, you will understand how Azure organizes and manages cloud resources through subscriptions and resource groups, which is the first step in understanding Azure's governance structure.

Cost is the key to cloud adoption decisions. This section will analyze Azure's core pricing model and teach you how to use the Azure pricing calculator, an important tool, to make preliminary cost estimates. You will learn about the main factors that affect billing and establish a preliminary awareness of cloud cost optimization.

Finally, you will become familiar with the basic operations of Azure Portal and know how to obtain assistance through rich learning resources and support channels such as Microsoft Learn when needed.

In summary, the AZ-900 certification is highly suitable for various groups of people. By obtaining this certification, you can not only demonstrate your commitment and basic understanding of cloud computing to current or future employers, but also lay an incredibly solid theoretical foundation for your future learning of more advanced Azure role certification.

It is a key that opens the door to the Azure world, designed to give you confidence and enable you to sail confidently in the cloud era.

4. What are the requirements to be a Microsoft Azure Fundamental?

(1) Qualification prerequisites:

There are no mandatory requirements for AZ-900 certification, which is suitable for people with zero foundation and professionals who want to switch to cloud computing.

AZ-900 does not require programming, operations, or Azure usage experience, only basic computer operation skills and English reading ability are needed.

(2) Training and examinations:

AZ-900 has approximately 40-60 questions, all of which are objective questions, including multiple choice questions and true/false questions; The exam lasts for 60 minutes; the full score of 1000 points, reaching 700 points or above to pass.
The exam fee is approximately $99, making it one of the cheapest exams in Microsoft certification. 

(3) Qualification maintenance:

The AZ-900 certificate is valid for life and does not require renewal. Although maintenance is not required, Azure services will continue to be updated. The official still recommends that you regularly follow Microsoft's official news to maintain a basic understanding of cloud technology.

5. Comparable Certifications to Microsoft Azure Fundamentals Certification

• AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
• Google Associate Cloud Engineer
• CompTIA Cloud+