The Microsoft 70-764 exam is a significant step for professionals looking to establish themselves in database administration using SQL Server 2016. As part of the requirements for the MCSA: SQL 2016 Database Administration credential, passing this exam not only helps you gain industry recognition but also proves your hands-on skills in managing, securing, and supporting SQL Server databases. This certification is ideal for individuals who aim to be more than just SQL practitioners and want to be recognized as reliable database professionals.
The Microsoft 70-764 exam validates your ability to handle a broad range of responsibilities. These include configuring data access, implementing auditing and encryption, maintaining backups, restoring data, and monitoring SQL Server environments. This practical focus ensures that certified professionals are ready to meet real-world challenges in enterprise database infrastructure.
The Value of Earning the Microsoft 70-764 Certification
Earning a Microsoft certification is about much more than passing an exam. For many professionals, it marks a turning point in their careers. It can make the difference between remaining in a support role and advancing into higher-level administrative or engineering positions. The Microsoft 70-764 exam, in particular, certifies that you have the skills to administer a secure, stable, and high-performing SQL Server environment.
This certification also enhances your profile when applying for new roles. Employers view certified professionals as having verified expertise in their chosen area, and this credential makes it easier for hiring managers to trust in your capabilities. But the benefits go beyond hiring. Preparing for the exam ensures that you develop a deep understanding of SQL Server’s features—knowledge that can save time, reduce errors, and prevent critical security issues.
Skills Measured by the Microsoft 70-764 Exam
The 70-764 exam assesses your ability to handle four major functional areas within SQL Server database administration. These skills are critical for managing complex database systems and ensuring they meet the demands of modern applications and data governance requirements.
You are expected to demonstrate your ability to configure access control using authentication and authorization techniques, manage user roles and permissions, implement encryption solutions to protect sensitive data, and configure auditing to monitor access and usage. You’ll also need to understand how to manage backup and restore operations efficiently, choose the right recovery models, and ensure minimal data loss during failure events.
Additionally, the exam tests your capacity to monitor and maintain the health of SQL Server instances. This includes using tools such as SQL Server Agent, Extended Events, and PowerShell to automate tasks, monitor performance, and address issues before they escalate. These abilities are essential to keep mission-critical applications running with minimal downtime.
Overview of the Microsoft 70-764 Exam Structure
The 70-764 exam is structured with 46 to 60 questions and has a duration of 120 minutes. The questions are typically multiple-choice or scenario-based, requiring not only factual recall but also analytical thinking. Microsoft uses a scaled scoring system, and a score of 700 is required to pass.
Candidates should expect scenario-driven questions that mirror real-world use cases. These questions might involve interpreting SQL scripts, identifying correct backup strategies, or choosing appropriate access control mechanisms for a given scenario. The exam is only offered in English and currently costs USD 165, including applicable taxes.
Preparing for the Exam: Know the Prerequisites
Before diving into study materials, it’s important to assess whether you’re a good fit for this exam. While Microsoft doesn’t mandate prerequisites, it’s strongly recommended that you have hands-on experience with SQL Server, particularly with administration, configuration, and security tasks.
You should be comfortable with tasks such as creating and managing databases, configuring user permissions, scheduling jobs using SQL Server Agent, and writing basic PowerShell and Transact-SQL scripts. Familiarity with SQL Server 2016 features is especially useful, as the exam is centered on this version of the platform.
If you’ve worked with database systems in any operational capacity—installing, maintaining, or troubleshooting—you already have a foundation to build upon. The exam serves to validate and expand that foundation with Microsoft’s standards.
Key Topics Covered in the Exam
Understanding what topics are tested is essential to efficient preparation. The Microsoft 70-764 exam evaluates your proficiency in the following four domains:
Configuring Data Access and Auditing
This domain covers creating logins and users, assigning roles and permissions, implementing authentication methods, and configuring auditing mechanisms. It also includes securing data using transparent data encryption, column-level encryption, and dynamic data masking.
Managing Backup and Restore of Databases
This area tests your ability to plan and implement a backup strategy, including full, differential, and transaction log backups. You must know how to perform restore operations, such as point-in-time recovery, and recover from media failures.
Managing and Monitoring SQL Server Instances
This section focuses on maintaining performance and availability. Topics include setting up alerts, scheduling jobs, monitoring system health using SQL Server logs, and using tools like Extended Events for diagnostics.
Managing High Availability
Although less heavily weighted, this section still requires a solid understanding of basic high availability concepts. You’ll be tested on configuring AlwaysOn availability groups, database mirroring, and failover clustering.
Scoring and Feedback Process
Once you complete the exam, you’ll receive a provisional score. If you pass, Microsoft will send your certification badge via email within a few days, along with a performance report that breaks down your scores by domain. This report is valuable for identifying areas where you excelled or underperformed.
If you do not pass, the report provides clear guidance on what to improve. Use it to target your weakest areas in your next round of preparation.
Scheduling the Exam with Microsoft
Registering for the 70-764 exam can be done through Microsoft’s certification website. From there, you’ll be redirected to Pearson VUE, the official exam delivery provider. You can choose between taking the exam at a local test center or from the comfort of your home with an online proctored session.
During scheduling, you’ll provide personal details, select your preferred language and testing environment, and pay the exam fee. Make sure your test environment meets all technical requirements if you choose to take the exam online.
Rescheduling and Cancellation Policy
Microsoft’s cancellation policy is fair and flexible, but it’s important to understand the timelines. If you cancel or reschedule more than six business days before your exam, there are no penalties. Changes made within five business days will incur a fee. Failing to appear without canceling in advance results in a forfeited exam fee.
Make sure to cancel or reschedule at least 24 hours before your exam to avoid losing your payment. Business days are considered Monday through Friday, not including holidays.
Maintaining Your Certification: Recertification Policy
Microsoft certifications need to be kept current to reflect evolving technologies. If Microsoft updates the certification objectives or retires the exam, you may be required to take a renewal assessment. These updates help ensure that certified professionals remain up to date with the latest SQL Server capabilities and best practices.
You are typically given a 90-day window to meet the new requirements once they are announced. Staying active in the certification community and monitoring your Microsoft account regularly will help you avoid surprises.
Laying the Groundwork for Success
Now that you have a comprehensive understanding of what the Microsoft 70-764 exam entails, the next step is to build a solid study plan. This means aligning your current skills with the exam objectives, selecting appropriate learning resources, and establishing a timeline for your preparation.
You should commit to a structured learning approach that includes instructor-led sessions, hands-on labs, and online training. A combination of self-paced courses, official documentation, and simulation exams will create a well-rounded preparation experience.
In the article, we’ll explore Microsoft’s recommended training resources, including instructor-led courses, hands-on labs, and self-paced online options designed specifically to help you succeed in the 70-764 exam.
Why Structured Training Is Essential for the 70-764 Exam
Preparing for the Microsoft 70-764 exam without a clear learning strategy can be overwhelming. The exam demands deep knowledge of SQL Server administration, including security, data recovery, access control, and monitoring practices. While real-world experience helps, structured training ensures that you’re fully aligned with what Microsoft expects.
This part of your preparation journey is where official learning paths and structured content become valuable. Microsoft provides curated courses and materials that focus on the exact technologies and practices the exam covers. By following a systematic training approach, you reduce gaps in your understanding and increase your chances of passing on the first attempt.
Instructor-Led Course: 20764 – Administering a SQL Database Infrastructure
One of the most effective starting points is the 20764: Administering a SQL Database Infrastructure course. This is a five-day instructor-led program tailored specifically for database administrators preparing for the 70-764 certification.
It is designed to cover real-world tasks and responsibilities of SQL Server professionals. This includes user authentication, role-based access, audit configuration, encryption techniques, backup management, and task automation. Instructors are typically Microsoft-certified experts with deep experience in SQL Server 2016 and beyond.
This format allows you to ask questions in real time, gain insights from other learners, and interact with practical scenarios under expert supervision. You’re not just reading theory—you’re applying it in simulated environments similar to what the exam tests.
Who Should Attend the Instructor-Led Training
This course is suitable for:
- Database professionals are responsible for administering and maintaining SQL Server databases.
- Developers who build applications that interact with SQL Server data.
- System administrators are aiming to expand into database infrastructure.
- IT professionals preparing for the 70-764 exam as part of the MCSA: SQL 2016 Database Administration path.
If you fit into any of these categories, instructor-led training gives you a solid base from which to launch the rest of your study plan.
What You Will Learn from the 20764 Course
The 20764 course is structured to mirror the exam objectives, making it an efficient way to align your training with what will be tested. By the end of the course, you’ll have practical knowledge and hands-on experience with:
- Authenticating and authorizing users and logins.
- Managing server and database-level roles.
- Granting permissions to resources securely.
- Encrypting data using SQL Server’s built-in capabilities.
- Setting up audits to track changes and access.
- Understanding backup strategies and recovery models.
- Automating administrative tasks using SQL Server Agent.
- Performing health monitoring and performance tuning using built-in utilities.
Each topic area includes lab exercises to reinforce the concepts through hands-on practice.
Self-Paced Online Training Options
If instructor-led training isn’t feasible due to time or budget constraints, Microsoft offers self-paced online courses that align with the 70-764 exam objectives. These courses are designed by industry experts and allow you to learn at your speed. They are perfect for professionals with tight schedules who prefer flexible study hours.
Securing Data in Azure and SQL Server (DAT243x)
This course focuses on securing SQL Server environments both on-premises and in the cloud. It explores how to configure login and user authentication, authorize user access to resources, and use encryption and auditing tools.
You’ll also explore concepts like transparent data encryption, Always Encrypted, and dynamic data masking, which are critical to protecting sensitive information. By mastering these tools, you’ll be better equipped to answer security-related questions on the exam.
Recovering Data in Azure and SQL Server (DAT244x)
Another vital skill for passing the 70-764 exam is understanding how to implement a reliable backup and restore strategy. This course offers a deep dive into SQL Server recovery models, differential and transaction log backups, and disaster recovery techniques.
You’ll also gain hands-on experience in performing point-in-time restores and evaluating recovery point and recovery time objectives.
Managing SQL Server Operations (DAT247x)
This course covers the daily maintenance and operational responsibilities of a database administrator. You’ll learn to configure SQL Server Agent for job automation, monitor system activity using Extended Events, and maintain performance using indexing and statistics.
You’ll also explore methods to monitor and troubleshoot errors efficiently, which is crucial for exam scenarios related to system monitoring and alerts.
Combining Learning Methods for Maximum Impact
While each course provides valuable knowledge, the best results come from combining different types of learning. You might begin with instructor-led training to understand the core concepts, then move on to self-paced courses to reinforce specific areas where you feel less confident.
Hands-on practice is the glue that binds everything together. It transforms passive knowledge into actionable skills. For every concept you study—whether it’s configuring access control or planning a backup strategy—make sure you practice it in a SQL Server test environment.
Use either your local machine with SQL Server Developer Edition or a virtual lab hosted online. The goal is to simulate real-life scenarios similar to those you’ll encounter during the exam.
Setting a Study Timeline
Time management is a major factor in certification success. Even with the best learning resources, disorganized study habits can reduce your effectiveness. Set aside dedicated time each week for study, review, and hands-on practice.
Here’s a suggested 6-week timeline for those using a combination of resources:
- Week 1–2: Complete the 20764 instructor-led course or its equivalent online.
- Week 3: Focus on access control and encryption concepts using the DAT243x course.
- Week 4: Study backup, restore, and recovery using the DAT244x course. Practice restoring test databases.
- Week 5: Tackle monitoring and maintenance using DAT247x. Set up alerts, automate jobs, and simulate failure scenarios.
- Week 6: Take practice tests, revisit weak areas, and reinforce your hands-on skills.
You may adjust this based on your availability and how familiar you are with SQL Server. But always aim for a balance between learning and application.
The Role of Practice in Reinforcing Training
No training is complete without proper review. As you work through each course, make summary notes for each topic, write sample scripts, and build mini projects using SQL Server. Repetition and practice ensure that your knowledge isn’t just theoretical—it becomes part of your skill set.
Use practice labs to test backup plans, simulate failed login attempts, configure server roles, or test monitoring alerts. These tasks not only prepare you for the exam but also boost your professional confidence in the workplace.
Getting the Most Out of Microsoft’s Learning Resources
Microsoft’s learning ecosystem is constantly evolving. Their online documentation, quick starts, and knowledge base articles are all excellent supplemental resources. If a concept from one of the courses seems unclear, chances are you’ll find an example or explanation in Microsoft Learn or the official SQL Server Docs.
You can also visit forums, read blog posts from Microsoft MVPs, and follow discussions around SQL Server security and infrastructure. These insights from real-world experts can deepen your understanding and even offer shortcuts to mastering certain tasks.
Choosing the right training resources is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when preparing for the 70-764 exam. With Microsoft-backed instructor-led courses, self-paced learning options, and hands-on practice labs, you can tailor your preparation to match your strengths and weaknesses.
In the article, we’ll focus on the best tangible resources—books and manuals that have stood the test of time and can act as reliable companions throughout your exam journey.
Why Books Still Matter in Certification Prep
In the fast-paced world of online courses, interactive labs, and video tutorials, it’s easy to underestimate the power of traditional books. However, when it comes to passing a detailed and technical certification exam like Microsoft 70-764, books remain a critical part of your learning strategy. They offer structured knowledge, in-depth coverage, and the kind of detailed explanations that are hard to find in shorter-form content.
Books let you revisit complex topics repeatedly, annotate key points, and develop a long-term understanding. They also often include scenario-based questions that reflect the exam format, helping you think like a database administrator facing real-world challenges.
For the 70-764 certification, certain reference books stand out due to their alignment with the official exam objectives and their ability to present complicated technical subjects in an accessible way.
The Official Exam Ref 70-764: Administering a SQL Database Infrastructure
The most authoritative resource for this exam is the Exam Ref 70-764 published by Microsoft Press. It’s written specifically for candidates preparing for the SQL Server certification and is structured according to the exam domains.
This book doesn’t just dump content on the reader—it uses a scenario-based approach that tests how you would respond in real-world administrative situations. You’re encouraged to think through decisions such as when to use certain encryption options, how to design your backup plan, and how to manage user access efficiently.
Some of the key topics it covers include:
- Configuring data access and auditing
- Managing backups and recovery
- Implementing security through roles, permissions, and encryption
- Monitoring SQL Server instances and configuring alerts
Each chapter includes thought-provoking questions and tasks to test your comprehension. It’s particularly useful in the final stages of exam prep when you’re tightening your knowledge and practicing exam-style reasoning.
SQL Server 2016 Administration Inside Out
If you want a broader, more comprehensive understanding of SQL Server that goes beyond just the exam requirements, SQL Server 2016 Administration Inside Out is a highly recommended title. Written by Microsoft MVPs and experts, this guide digs into every aspect of managing SQL Server, from installation and configuration to tuning and troubleshooting.
This book is particularly useful for building your foundational knowledge and understanding the “why” behind the “how.” While it may contain more information than strictly necessary for the exam, having this extra context strengthens your technical judgment, especially in areas such as:
- Performance tuning and indexing
- High availability and disaster recovery planning
- SQL Server Agent and automation
- Maintaining data integrity and consistency
When you read this book alongside more exam-focused content, you get a complete picture that supports both test success and on-the-job competency.
Pro SQL Server Administration by Apress
Another well-regarded resource is Pro SQL Server Administration by Apress. This book balances theory with practice and provides solutions to many administrative challenges faced in production environments. It’s written in a practical tone, making it ideal for those who prefer hands-on learning.
Topics include:
- Managing SQL Server security effectively
- Monitoring and optimizing server performance
- Executing robust backup and recovery strategies
- Using PowerShell for automation
While this book is not written specifically for exam prep, the scenarios and solutions it presents align closely with real questions you might see on the 70-764 exam. Using it as a supplemental resource helps bridge gaps and introduce new techniques that may help during both study and practical implementation.
SQL Server Security Cookbook
The 70-764 exam places a heavy focus on securing SQL Server infrastructure. The SQL Server Security Cookbook is a focused resource that offers step-by-step solutions to common security problems within SQL Server environments.
Each “recipe” outlines a specific challenge, such as encrypting data, configuring transparent data encryption, or auditing login attempts, followed by clear steps to implement a solution. This approach mirrors the type of task-based thinking required during the exam.
Using this book helps sharpen your practical skills in:
- Implementing role-based security
- Managing authentication methods
- Encrypting sensitive data
- Setting up audit logs and monitoring user access
Because these areas are weighted heavily in the exam objectives, mastering them through this type of targeted content will improve both your confidence and score.
Building a Study Plan with Books
Simply reading a book cover-to-cover isn’t enough. You need to make your study time efficient and aligned with your learning goals. Use the following strategy to incorporate books into your preparation:
- Match chapters with exam objectives: Focus on sections that map directly to domains like data access, security, backups, and monitoring.
- Annotate and highlight: Note down essential commands, flowcharts, and decision-making criteria that may appear on the exam.
- Summarize with your own notes: Rewrite key concepts in your own words to reinforce retention.
- Apply what you read: After finishing a topic like Transparent Data Encryption (TDE), set it up in a test SQL Server environment.
- Revisit difficult sections: Go back to chapters that cover your weak areas and rework their examples or case studies.
By approaching your books as working manuals rather than reading material, you convert passive learning into active understanding.
What to Look For in Additional Study Guides
Not all study guides are created equal. When choosing any additional titles, look for those that:
- Are updated for SQL Server 2016 (the version used in the 70-764 exam)
- Align directly with Microsoft’s official exam objectives.
- Include hands-on exercises and a script.s
- Provide exam-like questions or scenario-based challenges.
Avoid books that are too general or too outdated, as they may not reflect the latest exam format or feature set. Always verify that the material is relevant to the technologies and configurations tested in the Microsoft certification.
The Power of Printed vs. Digital Formats
Choosing between print and digital books is a personal decision, but each format offers different advantages:
- Printed books are great for deep focus. They’re easier on the eyes and ideal for note-taking and tabbing.
- Digital versions are searchable and portable. You can access them anywhere, mark up text, and copy commands easily.
Many professionals find it useful to use a digital version for fast reference and a printed copy for focused study sessions.
Final Review and Revision Using Books
As your exam date approaches, books become your revision toolkit. Use them to revisit core areas like:
- Permissions and roles
- Backup types and restore procedures
- Server monitoring and alerts
- Encryption methods and auditing techniques
Go over your annotated notes, revisit highlighted concepts, and rework practice scenarios. Doing so helps reinforce memory and sharpens your readiness.
In particular, the Exam Ref 70-764 can act as your checklist, ensuring you’ve covered every topic thoroughly before walking into the test center or logging in for the online proctored exam.
Books remain one of the most powerful tools in your arsenal as you prepare for the Microsoft 70-764 exam. When selected and used wisely, they give you deep, scenario-rich insights into SQL Server administration that align perfectly with what the exam requires.
Whether you choose Microsoft’s official study guides, comprehensive administration handbooks, or targeted security cookbooks, be consistent and deliberate in your approach. Supplement your reading with practice labs, summaries, and real-world testing to make the most of each resource.
Why Practice Tests Are Essential for Exam Readiness
You’ve studied the concepts, gone through instructor-led or self-paced training, and read the recommended books. Now what?
Before you attempt the actual Microsoft 70-764 exam, it’s critical to validate your knowledge under exam-like conditions. That’s where practice tests and exam simulators come in. These tools not only check your recall of concepts but also test your ability to apply knowledge in a timed and pressured environment, just like the real exam.
Practice tests bridge the gap between theory and readiness. They reveal weak areas, help you manage time effectively, and build the confidence you need to pass.
Features of a High-Quality Practice Test
Not all practice exams are created equal. Look for tools that include:
- Timed simulations that match the length and structure of the actual exam (typically around 40–60 questions in 120 minutes).
- Question formats similar to the real test, including multiple-choice, case studies, drag-and-drop, and scenario-based items.
- Explanations for correct and incorrect answers so you can understand your mistakes and learn from them.
- Reporting and analytics to track your performance over time by category (e.g., data access, security, backup, monitoring).
Tools with these features allow for realistic dry runs and ensure your preparation is complete, not just theoretical.
Recommended Practice Test Platforms
Here are a few of the most trusted platforms for Microsoft 70-764 practice tests:
1. MeasureUp
MeasureUp is Microsoft’s official practice test provider. Its 70-764 exam package is a reliable, accurate simulation of the real test. It includes:
- Timed and untimed modes
- Detailed answer explanations
- Randomized questions and question pools
- Scenario-based case studies
MeasureUp is more expensive than some alternatives, but it’s considered the gold standard for Microsoft exam prep. If you’re serious about passing on the first attempt, this is a smart investment.
2. Whizlabs
Whizlabs offers affordable practice tests that closely align with the exam blueprint. Their platform includes:
- Practice question sets organized by objective domain
- Customizable practice modes (timed or review)
- Clear breakdowns of correct answers
While not as polished as MeasureUp, Whizlabs can be a helpful supplemental tool, especially if you’re looking to drill specific knowledge areas repeatedly.
3. Boson
Boson is another well-respected provider of practice exams for Microsoft certifications. Their tests are known for being particularly challenging and insightful. Features include:
- Advanced explanations that often go beyond what’s required for the exam
- High-fidelity question formats
- A test engine that mimics the actual exam UI
Boson is especially useful if you want to stretch your skills and identify edge-case knowledge gaps.
4. Exam-Labs and PrepAway (Use with Caution)
Sites like Exam-Labs and PrepAway sometimes offer free or community-uploaded practice tests. However, they may include outdated or unauthorized content that can violate Microsoft’s certification policies.
Avoid using “braindumps” or illegally shared exam questions. Microsoft strictly prohibits this and may revoke certifications if you’re caught using such materials. Always prioritize reputable and legal practice test sources.
How to Use Practice Tests Effectively
Doing a practice test is not about chasing a score. It’s about discovering what you know, what you think you know, and what you need to review. Follow these strategies to get the most out of your practice exams:
1. Simulate Exam Conditions
Take your first full practice test in a quiet environment with a 2-hour timer. Don’t pause. Don’t use notes. This helps replicate the pressure of the actual exam and tests your pacing.
2. Review Every Answer – Right or Wrong
After the test, go through every question—even the ones you got right. Read the explanations and understand why an answer is correct. Often, learning happens more during review than during the test itself.
3. Track Patterns of Mistakes
Are you repeatedly missing questions on backup strategies? Are role-based permissions giving you trouble? Keep a log of topics where you struggle, and revisit those in your books or hands-on labs.
4. Set a Baseline and Improve Over Time
Take one or two practice exams early in your final study phase to set a benchmark. Then retake different or updated tests every few days. You should see your score and confidence improve over time.
A good rule of thumb: Don’t schedule the real exam until you’re consistently scoring 85% or higher on trusted practice tests.
Using Exam Simulators
In addition to standard practice tests, consider using full exam simulators. These tools mimic the actual look and feel of the Microsoft certification environment.
Some platforms (like MeasureUp and Boson) offer simulators where you’ll experience:
- Drag-and-drop interfaces
- Drop-down answer formats
- Question flagging and review
- Instant feedback after exam completion
Simulators help you get comfortable with the flow of the test and reduce exam-day anxiety. If you’ve never taken a Microsoft certification before, using a simulator is a smart step.
Exam-Day Strategy and Final Tips
As you enter the final week of prep, focus on strengthening weak spots and maintaining consistency rather than trying to cram. Here’s what your exam-week strategy might look like:
5 Days Before:
- Take a full-length practice exam and review all questions.
- Spend 2–3 hours reviewing your notes or rewatching key modules.
3 Days Before:
- Do hands-on labs on security, permissions, and backups.
- Take a second full-length practice test and compare performance.
1 Day Before:
- Light review of notes.
- Rest. Do not cram. Sleep and mental clarity are more important.
On Exam Day:
- Eat a light meal.
- Arrive (or log in) early.
- Use the first 1–2 minutes to skim the exam layout.
- Don’t get stuck—mark questions and return to them later if needed.
Final Thoughts
The Microsoft 70-764 exam isn’t just about memorizing commands—it’s about thinking like a SQL Server administrator. Practice tests and simulators are your proving ground. They allow you to test your knowledge, refine your strategy, and walk into the exam room with confidence.
When combined with solid training, hands-on labs, and the right books, practice tests complete the circle of preparation. Whether you’re aiming to upgrade your career, verify your skills, or earn your MCSA: SQL 2016 Database Administration certification, these tools ensure you’re truly ready.