This guide is designed to help you decide between the AZ-104 and AZ-204 exams by offering an in-depth comparison of both certifications, their respective topics, and the career opportunities they unlock. Whether you’re a seasoned IT professional looking to specialize or a newcomer seeking a career change, this article will provide you with the clarity you need.

What is AZ-104?

The AZ-104 exam, also known as the Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate certification, is designed for professionals who want to manage Azure resources. It focuses on implementing, managing, and monitoring Azure services such as virtual machines, storage, networks, and identities.

Key Topics in AZ-104:

• Managing Azure identities and governance (20-25%)
• Implementing and managing storage (15-20%)
• Deploying and managing Azure compute resources (20-25%)
• Implementing and managing virtual networking (15-20%)
• Monitoring and maintaining Azure resources (10-15%)

Target Audience: This certification is ideal for individuals interested in roles such as Azure Administrator, Cloud Engineer, or Systems Administrator.

What is AZ-204?

The AZ-204 exam, also called the Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate certification, is tailored for developers who are responsible for building and deploying applications on the Azure platform. This certification is for professionals focused on designing, developing, testing, and maintaining cloud applications and services.

Key Topics in AZ-204:

• Develop Azure compute solutions (25-30%)
• Develop for Azure storage (15-20%)
• Implement Azure security (15-20%)
• Monitor and troubleshoot Azure solutions (5-10%)
• Connect to and consume Azure services and third-party services (20-25%)

Target Audience: This certification is ideal for developers who want to work with cloud-based solutions and developers in roles such as Azure Developer, Cloud Developer, or Cloud Engineer.

AZ-104 vs AZ-204: Key Differences

1. Role Focus

• AZ-104: Primarily focused on administrative tasks like managing resources, networks, and identities within Azure.
• AZ-204: Primarily focused on development tasks, including the creation of cloud applications, using Azure SDKs, and working with databases.

2. Skills and Responsibilities

• AZ-104: Requires knowledge of infrastructure services such as virtual networks, storage accounts, and Azure Active Directory.
• AZ-204: Focuses more on coding skills, APIs, and integrating cloud-based solutions within applications.

3. Exam Content and Syllabus

• AZ-104: Topics include infrastructure management, storage management, networking, and governance.
• AZ-204: Topics focus on building cloud applications, integrating services, and securing Azure-based solutions.

4. Career Paths

• AZ-104: Leads to roles such as Azure Administrator, Cloud Engineer, and IT Manager.
• AZ-204: Leads to roles such as Azure Developer, Cloud Developer, and Solution Architect.

5. Difficulty Level

• AZ-104: Slightly easier for those with IT operations backgrounds, focusing more on operational management of cloud infrastructure.
• AZ-204: More suited for those with development experience, as it requires a deeper understanding of application development and services integration.

Which Certification Should You Take?

Choosing between the AZ-104 and AZ-204 depends on your career goals and expertise. Here are some considerations to help you decide:

If you enjoy managing and maintaining IT infrastructure:

The AZ-104 is a great choice. This certification will prepare you to handle Azure’s infrastructure services, allowing you to manage and monitor Azure resources effectively.

If you are more interested in cloud development:

The AZ-204 certification would be more suitable. If you are passionate about building applications, coding, and integrating with Azure’s various services, the AZ-204 is ideal for you.

Career Change:

If you are switching careers into IT or cloud computing, AZ-104 might be a better starting point as it focuses on core Azure services and operations.

Experience Level:

If you’re already a developer and want to expand your skills into Azure development, AZ-204 is the more relevant certification. On the other hand, if you have IT operational experience and want to move towards cloud administration, AZ-104 would be the better fit.

Resources to Prepare for AZ-104 and AZ-204

Regardless of which exam you choose, proper preparation is key to success. Here are some useful resources to help you prepare for both exams:

Practice Exams:

Get hands-on with practice exams to familiarize yourself with the format and question types. Check out AZ-104 Practice Exam and AZ-204 Practice Exam to test your knowledge.

Microsoft Learn:

Microsoft’s official learning platform offers free, comprehensive learning paths for both AZ-104 and AZ-204. Explore the full list of learning resources on the Microsoft AZ-104 Certification Page and Microsoft AZ-204 Certification Page.

Study Guides and Books:

Consider using guides such as the AZ-104 Exam Guide and AZ-204 Study Materials to deepen your understanding of the exam topics.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between AZ-104 and AZ-204?
AZ-104 is focused on cloud administration tasks like managing infrastructure, whereas AZ-204 is geared towards developing and deploying applications on the Azure platform.

2. Is AZ-104 easier than AZ-204?
AZ-104 is generally considered less difficult for those with an IT background, as it covers administrative roles. AZ-204 requires programming skills and application development expertise, making it more challenging for those without a development background.

3. Can a beginner take AZ-204?
While beginners can take AZ-204, it is recommended to have some programming experience before attempting this exam, as it covers application development and cloud integration.

4. Which exam is better for a cloud career?
Both exams are valuable, but AZ-104 is often seen as a better starting point for those new to Azure, while AZ-204 is suited for those pursuing development roles.

5. Can I take both AZ-104 and AZ-204 certifications?
Yes, many professionals choose to pursue both certifications to enhance their skills in both administration and development.

6. What is the cost of the AZ-104 and AZ-204 exams?
Both exams are priced at $165 USD each.

Conclusion

Both the AZ-104 and AZ-204 exams open doors to exciting career opportunities in the cloud industry. Choosing the right certification depends on your skills, career goals, and passion for either administration or development. Whatever path you choose, ensure you are well-prepared by utilizing the right resources and dedicating enough time for study and practice.

Take the next step in your career today and enhance your Azure expertise by exploring AZ-104 Practice Tests or AZ-204 Practice Tests.

The post AZ-104 vs AZ-204: Key Differences and Which Certification to Pursue appeared first on Certification Box.

What is AZ-204 Certification?

The AZ-204 certification, officially known as Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate, is designed for professionals who develop and maintain applications running on Microsoft Azure. This certification validates the knowledge and skills required to build cloud-based applications, including deploying and managing Azure resources, implementing Azure services, and troubleshooting solutions.

By obtaining the AZ-204 certification, developers prove their proficiency in developing scalable, resilient, and secure applications that are optimized for the cloud.

Exam Format and Key Domains

The AZ-204 exam is designed to test your expertise in several critical areas of Azure development. Here’s a breakdown of the key domains, so you know where to focus your preparation:

• Develop Azure compute solutions (25-30%)
• Develop for Azure storage (15-20%)
• Implement Azure security (15-20%)
• Monitor and troubleshoot Azure solutions (5-10%)
• Connect to and consume Azure services and third-party services (20-25%)

Key Exam Details:

• Exam Name: Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate
• Exam Code: AZ-204
• Price: $165 USD
• Duration: 120 minutes
• Number of Questions: 40-60
• Passing Score: 700 / 1000

Why the AZ-204 Certification Matters

Whether you’re a career changer, experienced developer, or recent graduate, AZ-204 is more than just a badge—it’s proof of your proficiency in Microsoft Azure, a leading cloud computing platform used by Fortune 500 companies worldwide.

Benefits of AZ-204 Certification:

• Job Readiness: Validates skills that employers actually need.
• Career Growth: Increases chances of promotions and better pay.
• Credibility: Boosts trust and credibility among clients and peers.
• Networking Opportunities: Access to the global Microsoft certified community.

According to Microsoft, Azure is used by 95% of Fortune 500 companies, and the demand for certified Azure professionals has skyrocketed in recent years.

5 Study Habits That Guarantee AZ-204 Exam Success

1. Master the AZ-204 Syllabus with a Strategic Study Plan

Before diving into code or mock tests, spend time understanding the AZ-204 certification syllabus. Break it down into manageable weekly goals.

• Start with topics that carry higher exam weight.
• Use a mix of AZ-204 PDF study guides and official Microsoft learning paths.
• Dedicate more time to “Develop Azure compute solutions” and “Connect to and consume Azure services” since they make up nearly 50% of the exam.

Tip: Use a calendar or study planner to track your syllabus completion by domain.

2. Leverage Realistic AZ-204 Practice Tests

Mock tests are your secret weapon. They mimic the actual exam structure and pressure, helping you become exam-ready.

Use AZ-204 Practice Test to:

• Identify your strengths and weaknesses.
• Improve time management.
• Gain familiarity with the AZ-204 exam question patterns.

Bonus: Regularly practicing questions helps you retain more and feel confident walking into the exam.

3. Apply What You Learn Through Hands-On Labs

Azure is practical—your learning should be too.

• Set up a free Azure account and build small projects that reflect real-world applications.
• Focus on developing Azure Functions, deploying App Services, and integrating with third-party APIs.
• Use Microsoft Learn sandbox environments to avoid extra costs.

Insight: Applying concepts via labs not only reinforces your understanding but also prepares you for scenario-based questions.

4. Join a Learning Community and Share Insights

Surround yourself with a network that supports your journey.

• Join LinkedIn groups, Reddit forums, and Discord servers related to Microsoft Azure certifications.
• Share your learnings, quiz each other with AZ-204 exam questions, and exchange notes or AZ-204 exam guides in PDF format.

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” — Helen Keller Learning with others keeps you motivated, accountable, and exposed to new resources you might have missed.

5. Manage Stress and Stay Consistent

Even the best plans fail if you’re not mentally prepared.

• Follow a balanced schedule—include breaks, exercise, and sleep.
• Use mindfulness or journaling to keep exam stress at bay.
• Celebrate small milestones like completing a topic or scoring well on a practice test.

Motivation: The AZ-204 isn’t just an exam—it’s a career milestone. Stay consistent and keep your end goal in sight.

FAQs

1. What is the AZ-204 exam?

The AZ-204 is the Developing Solutions for Microsoft Azure certification exam. It validates your skills in designing, building, and maintaining Azure applications.

2. How much does the AZ-204 certification cost?

The AZ-204 exam price is $165 USD globally. Prices may vary based on location and currency.

3. What is the best way to prepare for the AZ-204 exam?

Combine structured study using the AZ-204 syllabus, hands-on practice, and AZ-204 practice tests to prepare effectively.

4. Are there sample AZ-204 exam questions available?

Yes! You can find sample AZ-204 exam questions online that help simulate the actual test experience.

5. How long should I study for AZ-204?

Most candidates spend 6–8 weeks preparing thoroughly, depending on their experience with Azure services.

Final Thoughts

Passing the AZ-204 exam doesn’t require magic—it requires method. Whether you’re aiming for a new job, switching careers, or proving your expertise, these five habits will help you stay organized, confident, and ready to succeed.

Combine structured learning, hands-on practice, and mental resilience to crush the AZ-204 certification and unlock new cloud development opportunities.

Ready to take the next step?
Start your journey today with this trusted Practice Test and prepare like a pro. (TAP IMAGE)

The post 5 Study Habits That Guarantee AZ-204 Certification Success appeared first on Certification Box.

Understanding the Role of Azure Developers

Azure Developers play a crucial role in the development of cloud solutions. They work closely with cloud solution architects, cloud DBAs, cloud administrators, and clients to implement and manage these solutions. Their responsibilities include.

• Designing and building cloud applications and services.
• Participating in the entire development lifecycle.
• Ensuring the deployment and maintenance of cloud solutions.
• Collaborating with other cloud professionals to implement effective solutions.

Prerequisites for the AZ-204 Certification

Although there are no formal prerequisites for the AZ-204 exam, it is highly recommended that candidates have.

• At least one year of experience in developing scalable solutions through all phases of software development.
• A foundational understanding of Azure and cloud concepts, services, and the Azure Portal.
• Proficiency in C#, .NET Framework, and HTML, as well as experience with REST APIs.
• Familiarity with PowerShell and/or Azure CLI.

AZ-204 Certification Exam Overview

The AZ-204 Certification course covers a broad range of topics essential for developing solutions on Microsoft Azure. Below is a detailed breakdown of the exam components.

• Exam Name: Microsoft Certified – Azure Developer Associate
• Exam Code: AZ-204
• Exam Price: $165 (USD)
• Duration: 120 minutes
• Number of Questions: 40-60
• Passing Score: 700 / 1000

Microsoft AZ-204 Certification Exam Syllabus Topics

• Develop Azure compute solutions (25-30%)
• Develop for Azure storage (15-20%)
• Implement Azure security (15-20%)
• Monitor and troubleshoot Azure solutions (5-10%)
• Connect to and consume Azure services and third-party services (20-25%)

Benefits of the AZ-204 Certification

Achieving the AZ-204 certification offers numerous career advantages.

1. Enhanced Job Opportunities

The certification demonstrates your ability to design, build, and maintain cloud solutions, making you a strong candidate for roles in Azure development and implementation. It increases your visibility and can help you secure job interviews.

2. Increased Earning Potential

Certified Azure Developers often see a boost in their salary. The credential validates your skills and expertise, which can lead to higher compensation.

3. Skill Development

The certification process enhances your programming skills, particularly in cloud environments. These skills are globally recognized and can be applied in your current role, even if you do not immediately pursue the certification.

4. Career Advancement

Holding the AZ-204 certification can open doors to advanced career opportunities. It demonstrates your commitment to professional growth and can lead to promotions or new roles within your organization.

5. Prerequisite for DevOps Certification

The AZ-204 certification is a stepping stone towards other advanced certifications, such as those in DevOps. It provides a solid foundation for pursuing further specialization.

6. Job Security

With cloud technologies continually evolving, having a recognized certification like AZ-204 can offer job security and demonstrate your ability to adapt to new technologies.

Effective Preparation Strategies for the AZ-204 Certification Exam

To prepare effectively for the AZ-204 exam, consider the following strategies.

1. Use Official Study Materials

Microsoft offers a range of official study materials, including.

• Microsoft Learn Modules: Interactive learning paths designed to help you grasp key concepts.
• Microsoft Official Curriculum: Comprehensive resources and practice exams provided by certified trainers.

2. Practice with Virtual Labs

Engage in hands-on practice by using virtual labs. These labs simulate real-world scenarios and provide practical experience with Azure services and tools.

3. Join Study Groups

Participate in online forums and study groups. Engaging with peers and experts can provide additional insights and help you stay motivated.

4. Complete Azure Exercises

Perform exercises that mimic real-world tasks you’ll encounter in the exam. This includes building and managing Azure solutions, as well as troubleshooting and optimizing services.

5. Explore Online Forums

Join forums and discussion groups focused on Azure certification. These platforms offer valuable tips, study resources, and advice from individuals who have successfully passed the exam.

Conclusion

The AZ-204 Certification is a pivotal credential for Azure Developers, providing the skills and knowledge required to design, build, and maintain cloud solutions effectively. By understanding the exam details, preparing thoroughly, and leveraging the benefits of certification, you can advance your career and demonstrate your expertise in Microsoft Azure development.

FAQs

1. What is the AZ-204 Certification?

The AZ-204 Certification, officially known as the Microsoft Certified – Azure Developer Associate, is designed for developers who build, test, and maintain cloud solutions using Microsoft Azure. It validates your skills in developing Azure compute solutions, implementing Azure storage, and integrating with Azure services.

2. What are the prerequisites for taking the AZ-204 exam?

There are no formal prerequisites for the AZ-204 exam. However, it is recommended that candidates have at least one year of experience in developing scalable solutions and a foundational understanding of Azure and cloud concepts, as well as familiarity with C#, .NET Framework, HTML, REST APIs, PowerShell, or Azure CLI.

3. How long is the AZ-204 exam, and how many questions are there?

The AZ-204 exam is 120 minutes long and consists of 40-60 questions. The questions may include multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and case studies.

4. How can I prepare for the AZ-204 exam?

To prepare effectively, use official study materials such as Microsoft Learn modules and Microsoft’s official curriculum. Engage in hands-on practice with virtual labs, join study groups, and participate in online forums to gain additional insights and support.

5. How often is the AZ-204 exam updated?

The AZ-204 exam is updated periodically to align with changes in Azure technologies and practices. It is important to check the official Microsoft certification page for the latest exam objectives and updates.

6. What are the benefits of obtaining the AZ-204 certification?

The AZ-204 certification can enhance your job opportunities, increase your earning potential, develop globally recognized skills, advance your career, and provide job security. It also serves as a prerequisite for further specialization, such as DevOps certification.

The post Why the AZ-204 Certification is Essential for Aspiring Azure Developers appeared first on Certification Box.