Cloud computing has revolutionized how businesses operate, enabling more efficient infrastructure, scalable applications, and robust security models. Among the major cloud platforms, Microsoft Azure has emerged as a leader due to its wide range of services, integration capabilities, and enterprise trust. As organizations transition to cloud environments, the demand for skilled professionals capable of managing cloud infrastructure has increased significantly. To meet this demand, Microsoft introduced role-based certifications, with the Azure Administrator Associate certification being a critical milestone for those pursuing cloud expertise.
The Microsoft Azure Administrator certification (formerly AZ-103) validates the ability of IT professionals to manage cloud services, including computing, storage, networking, and security within Microsoft Azure. While AZ-103 has been replaced by AZ-104, understanding the AZ-103 exam structure, learning objectives, and preparation strategies still holds relevance, particularly for those seeking a strong foundational grasp of Azure administration. This certification ensures candidates possess the technical proficiency required to implement, monitor, and maintain Microsoft Azure solutions.
For many, pursuing certification is more than a formal credential; it is a way to gain industry-recognized skills, build confidence in handling cloud platforms, and improve career prospects. As businesses increasingly migrate workloads to the cloud, certified professionals with Azure knowledge stand out in a competitive job market. Whether you are a beginner or transitioning from another IT role, preparing for an Azure certification is a valuable investment in your future.
This guide explores the core elements of the AZ-103 exam across four detailed parts. In this first part, we will explore Azure fundamentals, the transition from AZ-100 and AZ-101 to AZ-103, and the structure and domains of the AZ-103 exam. Each section is designed to help you understand the core components required to begin your journey toward Azure expertise.
Transition from AZ-100 and AZ-101 to AZ-103
Before AZ-103 was introduced, Microsoft offered two separate exams: AZ-100 and AZ-101. These exams together covered the skill set necessary for Azure administrators. However, Microsoft identified overlap and redundancy between the two exams, which led to a redesign of the certification path. The AZ-103 exam emerged as a unified certification that combined and refined the core elements of both earlier exams.
AZ-100 focused on infrastructure services such as managing Azure subscriptions, storage, and virtual machines. AZ-101 concentrated on more advanced topics, including identity management and secure networking. With the evolution of Microsoft Azure services and growing feedback from the IT community, Microsoft decided to streamline the certification track to reduce complexity and improve relevance.
The resulting AZ-103 exam encompasses the essential knowledge areas from both retired exams, presenting a comprehensive and integrated skill set required for Azure administrators. This not only simplified the certification path but also ensured that the certification reflected real-world job roles more effectively. Candidates preparing for AZ-103 were required to understand a wide range of administrative tasks, including deploying resources, managing storage, configuring networking, and implementing security controls.
For those who studied for AZ-100 or AZ-101, much of the knowledge and learning materials remained applicable to AZ-103. As the changes were largely structural and not conceptual, transitioning to AZ-103 involved adjusting to the new exam format and refreshing knowledge across a slightly updated syllabus. This evolution demonstrated Microsoft’s commitment to maintaining relevant certifications aligned with industry trends and job role expectations.
Although AZ-103 has now been replaced by AZ-104, understanding this transition helps to appreciate the continuous development of Microsoft’s certification ecosystem. It also emphasizes the importance of keeping up-to-date with changes in the technology landscape and staying informed about evolving certification paths.
Exam Structure and Core Domains of AZ-103
The Microsoft Azure Administrator AZ-103 exam was structured to assess a candidate’s ability to perform specific technical tasks in the Azure environment. The exam measured proficiency in five key domains, each weighted according to its importance in an administrator’s daily responsibilities. These domains were:
- Managing Azure subscriptions and resources
- Implementing and managing storage
- Deploying and managing virtual machines
- Configuring and managing virtual networks
- Managing identities
Each of these domains covered distinct sets of skills that collectively ensured comprehensive knowledge of Azure administration. Candidates needed to demonstrate their ability to configure infrastructure, manage services, and support users in a cloud-first environment.
The exam typically consisted of 40 to 60 questions, with a passing score of 700 out of 1000. Question types included multiple-choice, case studies, drag-and-drop scenarios, and performance-based tasks. These varied formats were designed to simulate real-world problem-solving and decision-making that administrators would encounter in their roles.
The structure of the exam ensured that candidates had a practical understanding of Azure concepts. For example, rather than asking purely theoretical questions, the exam might present a scenario where an administrator must choose the most efficient way to configure a virtual network with security groups. This focus on applied knowledge made the AZ-103 exam both challenging and valuable, preparing candidates for the demands of a real Azure administrator role.
Additionally, the flexible exam format allowed candidates to take the test in a physical testing center or via online proctoring, offering convenience and accessibility. This flexibility was particularly helpful for working professionals managing preparation alongside job responsibilities. The exam could be taken in English and was priced at approximately USD 165, although costs varied by region.
The structure of the AZ-103 exam provided a solid foundation for cloud professionals and set the stage for more advanced certifications. For those continuing on the Microsoft certification path, passing the AZ-103 exam served as a prerequisite for higher-level certifications such as the Azure Solutions Architect Expert or the DevOps Engineer Expert.
Prerequisites and Candidate Profile
While the AZ-103 exam did not have formal prerequisites, Microsoft recommended that candidates have a certain level of practical experience and technical knowledge before attempting the test. This included hands-on experience with Azure Portal, Azure Resource Manager (ARM) templates, operating systems, networking, and storage solutions. Proficiency in PowerShell and the Azure Command-Line Interface (CLI) was also advised.
The ideal candidate for the AZ-103 certification was someone who had previously worked with cloud or on-premises infrastructure and was now transitioning into an Azure environment. Systems administrators, network engineers, and IT support professionals were common candidates pursuing this certification to validate their cloud administration skills.
For those new to Azure, it was beneficial to begin with foundational knowledge through self-paced learning, documentation, or instructor-led training. Azure’s documentation and learning paths were designed to support candidates at various experience levels, making the certification accessible to a wide audience.
Key personal attributes for success in the AZ-103 exam included problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and the ability to adapt to evolving cloud technologies. Because Azure is a dynamic platform with frequent updates, staying current with new features and best practices was critical for success both in the exam and on the job.
Candidates preparing for AZ-103 were encouraged to gain hands-on experience in a sandbox or trial environment. Setting up virtual networks, deploying virtual machines, configuring storage accounts, and testing backup strategies were all essential activities that reinforced theoretical understanding with practical skills. The ability to manage resources efficiently in the Azure environment requires familiarity with both the platform’s tools and administrative responsibilities.
By understanding the candidate profile and aligning preparation accordingly, individuals were better positioned to achieve success in the AZ-103 exam. The next section will explore in detail the specific modules covered by the exam, beginning with managing Azure subscriptions and resources.
Managing Azure Subscriptions and Resources
The first major module of the AZ-103 exam focuses on managing Azure subscriptions and resources. This area of the exam tests a candidate’s ability to organize, track, and control Azure resources efficiently. Resource management is a foundational task in any Azure administrator role, as it directly affects cost control, compliance, scalability, and security.
Azure subscriptions are containers used to provision resources in Azure. A subscription provides authenticated and authorized access to Azure services and allows users to manage resource usage and costs. In large organizations, multiple subscriptions might be used to separate billing, projects, or departments. Understanding how to manage these subscriptions is essential for proper resource governance.
One of the first steps in resource management involves organizing resources into resource groups. A resource group is a container that holds related resources for an Azure solution. Resource groups make it easier to manage and organize resources, apply policies, and monitor activity. Azure administrators must know how to create, manage, and delete resource groups using tools like the Azure Portal, PowerShell, or the Azure CLI.
Another important skill area is the ability to monitor resource usage and optimize cost. Azure provides various tools such as Cost Management + Billing, Azure Advisor, and Azure Monitor. These tools help administrators analyze spending patterns, identify underutilized resources, and make cost-effective decisions. Knowing how to interpret usage reports, set budgets, and create alerts is part of responsible resource management.
Azure also supports role-based access control, allowing administrators to control who has access to specific resources. Understanding RBAC is critical. Roles can be assigned at the subscription, resource group, or resource level, and permissions can be customized to follow the principle of least privilege. Being able to create and manage role assignments, define custom roles, and audit access permissions ensures a secure and manageable cloud environment.
The exam may also test the ability to tag resources. Tags are key-value pairs that help administrators categorize and identify resources based on department, environment, project, or owner. Effective use of tagging enables better cost tracking and resource organization, especially in environments with hundreds or thousands of assets.
Finally, familiarity with Azure Policies is necessary. Policies help enforce rules and effects over resources, such as limiting the types of virtual machines that can be deployed or ensuring that certain locations are not used. Azure Policy enables governance by automatically auditing and applying standards to ensure compliance.
This module requires both conceptual understanding and practical skills, as candidates must be able to execute administrative tasks and explain their impact on overall system governance and efficiency.
Implementing and Managing Storage
The second module of the AZ-103 exam focuses on implementing and managing storage in Azure. Storage services in Azure are essential for storing data, hosting virtual machine disks, managing backups, and supporting web applications. Understanding the various types of storage available and how to manage them is a key responsibility for any Azure administrator.
Azure Storage offers multiple services, including Blob Storage, File Storage, Queue Storage, and Table Storage. Blob Storage is used for storing large volumes of unstructured data such as images, videos, and documents. File Storage provides a managed file share for cloud or on-premises deployments. Queue Storage enables messaging between application components, and Table Storage offers a NoSQL key-value store.
The first step in using Azure Storage is creating and configuring a storage account. Administrators need to choose the appropriate replication strategy based on business requirements. Replication options include locally redundant storage, zone-redundant storage, geo-redundant storage, and read-access geo-redundant storage. Each option has trade-offs in terms of availability, cost, and data durability.
Once a storage account is created, configuring shared access signatures and access keys is important for secure access. Shared access signatures provide time-limited access to resources without exposing account keys, which is crucial for security. Understanding how to manage access using these features ensures that data remains protected while still being accessible to applications and users.
Another essential aspect of this module is Azure Files. This service allows administrators to create file shares that can be mounted by cloud or on-premises systems. It is especially useful for legacy applications that require traditional file shares. Knowing how to create, mount, and manage Azure file shares is necessary for handling enterprise workloads.
Administrators must also understand data transfer techniques. Azure provides several services and tools to move data into and out of the cloud, including AzCopy, Azure Import/Export, and Azure Data Box. These tools are used depending on the size of the data, network bandwidth, and urgency of the transfer.
Implementing Azure Backup is another important area. Azure Backup provides a simple and secure way to protect data. It supports backing up virtual machines, SQL databases, file shares, and more. Administrators must know how to configure backup policies, perform restores, and monitor backup jobs. Understanding retention policies and the recovery process is essential for maintaining data integrity.
Additionally, storage management includes monitoring storage account usage and performance. Azure Monitor and metrics provide insights into request latency, availability, and capacity. Administrators should regularly review these metrics to identify bottlenecks or storage limits.
In the AZ-103 exam, candidates may encounter scenarios where they need to decide the best storage type, configure access securely, or implement a backup strategy based on given requirements. Mastery of this module ensures administrators can effectively manage storage solutions that support business applications and data management strategies.
Deploying and Managing Virtual Machines
The third major area of focus in the AZ-103 exam involves deploying and managing virtual machines. Virtual machines (VMs) are fundamental to cloud infrastructure, providing the flexibility to run applications and services without investing in physical hardware. As an Azure administrator, understanding how to provision, configure, and maintain VMs is crucial.
Creating a virtual machine in Azure involves selecting the appropriate size, operating system, and availability options. Azure provides a wide variety of VM sizes tailored for different workloads, such as general-purpose, compute-optimized, memory-optimized, and storage-optimized VMs. The ability to choose the right VM size based on performance and budget requirements is a critical skill.
Administrators must also be able to configure VMs for Windows and Linux operating systems. This includes setting up user accounts, configuring networking options, and installing necessary software or scripts. The exam may include scenarios requiring the configuration of a VM using the Azure Portal, PowerShell, or Azure CLI.
Another important topic is managing the lifecycle of VMs. This includes starting, stopping, deallocating, resizing, and deleting VMs. Each action has specific cost and availability implications. For example, stopping a VM without deallocating it still incurs storage costs. Understanding these distinctions helps optimize resource usage and manage operational costs.
Automating VM deployment using ARM templates or VM Scale Sets is another key concept. ARM templates allow for repeatable, declarative deployment of infrastructure, ensuring consistency and reducing manual configuration errors. VM Scale Sets enable the deployment of a set of identical VMs with auto-scaling capabilities based on load or schedule.
Managing virtual machine backups is another critical responsibility. Azure Backup allows administrators to create restore points and perform point-in-time recovery. This ensures business continuity in case of failure or data loss. Knowing how to configure backup policies, monitor backup jobs, and restore VMs from backup is essential.
Administrators must also be familiar with VM monitoring tools such as Azure Monitor, Log Analytics, and VM Insights. These tools help identify performance bottlenecks, diagnose issues, and ensure optimal VM operation. The ability to configure alerts and analyze logs is an important part of operational monitoring.
Security management is also part of VM administration. This includes managing operating system updates using Update Management, implementing Just-In-Time VM access, and configuring Azure Security Center recommendations. Protecting VMs from threats and unauthorized access is a top priority for cloud administrators.
Scenarios in the exam may involve troubleshooting failed deployments, resizing VMs for performance, or configuring high availability using availability sets and zones. Each task reflects the real-world challenges of managing virtual machines in a dynamic cloud environment.
This module ensures candidates are capable of maintaining the performance, security, and availability of compute resources hosted in Azure.
Configuring and Managing Virtual Networks
The final and largest module of the AZ-103 exam covered in this part involves configuring and managing virtual networks. Networking is the backbone of Azure infrastructure, connecting resources, enabling secure communication, and supporting hybrid environments. Virtual networking in Azure allows organizations to create isolated and secure environments for applications and services.
A virtual network (VNet) in Azure is similar to a traditional on-premises network, with additional benefits like scalability, isolation, and security. Administrators must understand how to create and configure VNets, define IP address spaces, subnets, and route tables. This foundational knowledge is critical for designing efficient network topologies.
Another important task is configuring name resolution. Azure provides internal name resolution for resources within a VNet, but custom DNS servers can also be configured if needed. Understanding when and how to use Azure DNS or custom DNS is vital for application compatibility and resource accessibility.
Network security is managed using Network Security Groups (NSGs), which act like firewalls by allowing or denying traffic based on rules. Administrators must be able to configure NSGs, associate them with subnets or network interfaces, and audit their impact on traffic flow. NSGs play a crucial role in enforcing security boundaries within an Azure deployment.
Virtual network peering enables communication between different VNets within the same or different regions. It allows resources to communicate without using public internet routes, enhancing security and reducing latency. Setting up VNet peering involves understanding address space overlaps, gateway transit, and traffic flow rules.
Another key area is integrating on-premises networks with Azure using VPN gateways and ExpressRoute. These services allow hybrid connectivity, which is essential for businesses with existing on-premises infrastructure. VPN gateways use encrypted tunnels over the internet, while ExpressRoute provides private connectivity. Choosing the right method depends on performance, reliability, and cost considerations.
Monitoring and troubleshooting network issues require familiarity with Azure Network Watcher. This tool provides insights into network topology, connection diagnostics, packet capture, and flow logs. These features help administrators quickly identify and resolve connectivity issues.
Load balancing is also covered in this module. Azure Load Balancer and Application Gateway allow administrators to distribute traffic across multiple resources, improve availability, and provide high performance. Understanding how to configure front-end IPs, health probes, and backend pools is necessary for implementing resilient applications.
The exam may present case studies requiring the configuration of a multi-subnet VNet, secure communication between VMs, or troubleshooting connectivity between on-premises and cloud environments. Success in this module demonstrates the ability to design, implement, and support robust networking solutions in Azure.
Managing Identities
Identity management is a cornerstone of cloud security, and it’s one of the core topics covered in the AZ-103 exam. Microsoft Azure uses Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) as its primary identity and access management (IAM) service. This section evaluates the candidate’s ability to manage users, groups, and access to ensure secure and organized user authentication and authorization.
At its core, Azure AD allows organizations to manage user accounts and control access to applications and resources. Understanding how to create and manage users is a fundamental skill. Azure administrators must be able to add users manually via the Azure Portal or use automation through PowerShell or the Azure CLI. In larger organizations, users are often synchronized from on-premises directories using Azure AD Connect. This tool provides a hybrid identity by enabling single sign-on and federation scenarios.
Groups in Azure AD simplify access control by allowing administrators to assign permissions to a collection of users. There are two main types: security groups and Microsoft 365 groups. Security groups are used for granting access to resources, while Microsoft 365 groups provide collaboration tools such as shared mailboxes and calendars. Dynamic groups can also be created to automatically assign users based on attributes like department or location.
Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) plays a major role in managing access in Azure. RBAC allows administrators to assign roles to users, groups, and service principals, controlling what actions they can perform and where. Understanding built-in roles such as Reader, Contributor, and Owner is crucial, as is the ability to create custom roles for more granular control. Assigning roles at the correct scope—whether at the subscription, resource group, or resource level—ensures the principle of least privilege is followed.
Multifactor Authentication (MFA) is an essential security feature, and candidates must know how to enable it. Azure AD supports conditional access policies that enforce MFA based on user location, device compliance, or risk level. Understanding how to configure these policies ensures organizations can maintain both security and user productivity.
Azure AD also supports enterprise applications and service principals. Administrators must know how to register applications, grant permissions, and manage consent. This is especially important when integrating third-party applications or automating access using scripts and APIs.
Password management is another important skill. Azure AD allows users to reset their passwords using self-service password reset (SSPR), which improves user experience and reduces helpdesk load. Knowing how to configure and monitor SSPR, as well as enforce password policies, is essential.
Identity protection features such as Identity Secure Score, risky sign-ins, and user risk policies are also valuable tools that administrators should be aware of. These features help monitor and respond to suspicious activity, improving organizational security posture.
Managing identities in Azure is not just about user creation—it’s about creating a secure, scalable, and auditable system for access management across an enterprise environment. The exam tests real-world scenarios that challenge candidates to apply these concepts in practical ways.
Exam Strategy and Preparation Tips
The AZ-103 exam covers a wide range of administrative tasks, and preparation requires both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience. To succeed, candidates must go beyond simply reading documentation—they must practice using the Azure Portal, PowerShell, Azure CLI, and ARM templates to reinforce concepts and develop confidence.
Understand the Exam Format
The exam typically includes:
- Multiple-choice questions
- Case studies
- Drag-and-drop activities
- Command-line completion
- Scenario-based simulations
Understanding the types of questions you’ll encounter can help reduce test anxiety and improve time management during the exam.
Use Microsoft Learn
Microsoft Learn provides free, official training modules that cover all AZ-103 objectives. The platform combines theory with interactive labs and quizzes, making it ideal for practical learners. Completing all relevant learning paths is strongly recommended.
Set Up a Lab Environment
Azure offers free trials and developer subscriptions that allow you to explore and test services in a sandbox environment. Practicing how to:
- Deploy VMs
- Configure networks
- Manage storage
- Apply RBAC
- Set up backup and recovery
…will give you a real-world understanding of the exam topics and boost your ability to answer scenario-based questions confidently.
Practice Exams
Taking practice exams helps you evaluate your readiness and identify weak areas. It’s a good idea to use them after completing each section of your study plan. Many third-party providers offer high-quality AZ-103 mock exams that mirror the real test’s structure and difficulty.
Focus on Key Services
While breadth is important, certain high-priority topics consistently appear on the AZ-103 exam. Focus your study on:
- Azure VMs (creation, scaling, backup)
- Azure Networking (VNets, NSGs, VPNs)
- Azure Storage (Blobs, Files, access control)
- Identity and Access Management (RBAC, Azure AD, MFA)
- Monitoring and Reporting (Azure Monitor, Log Analytics)
If time is limited, prioritize hands-on labs for these core areas.
Learn PowerShell and Azure CLI
While the exam doesn’t require deep scripting knowledge, it does expect you to recognize and use basic PowerShell and CLI commands for managing resources. This is especially useful for questions involving automation or remote configuration.
Retake Policy and Exam Logistics
Microsoft’s retake policy allows candidates to retake the AZ-103 exam if they fail. The policy is:
- First retake: 24 hours after the first attempt
- Second retake and beyond: Wait 14 days between attempts
- Maximum: 5 attempts in 12 months
This gives candidates flexibility to retry the exam, but preparation is key to avoid unnecessary retakes.
Booking and Fees
The AZ-103 exam costs approximately USD 165, though prices may vary depending on your location. You can schedule the exam through the Microsoft Certification Dashboard, with options for online proctoring or in-person testing at a center.
Online exams require a quiet, private space with a webcam, microphone, and reliable internet. A system check is conducted before the exam to ensure compliance with test rules.
Earning the Certification
Upon passing the AZ-103 exam, you receive the Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate certification. This credential is valid for one year. Microsoft now requires recertification annually via a free online assessment to maintain your certification status.
The certification is recognized globally and serves as a valuable credential for cloud professionals. It can significantly enhance your credibility in roles like Azure Administrator, Cloud Support Engineer, or Infrastructure Architect.
The AZ-103 certification is a strong stepping stone for professionals aiming to build or validate their skills in cloud infrastructure and operations. It demonstrates proficiency in core Azure services and administrative practices, making it an ideal starting point for more advanced certifications like:
- AZ-104 (Azure Administrator – updated version of AZ-103)
- AZ-305 (Azure Solutions Architect)
- SC-300 (Microsoft Identity and Access Administrator)
After certification, continue building hands-on experience, stay updated with Microsoft’s evolving cloud services, and explore deeper specializations based on your interests or business needs.
Real-World Application of Azure Administrator Skills
Once you have acquired the skills and knowledge required for the Microsoft AZ-103 exam, the next step is understanding how these skills apply in real-world job scenarios. The role of an Azure Administrator is not limited to passing an exam—it involves handling actual cloud environments and maintaining operational continuity, security, and performance across various services.
Azure administrators are tasked with deploying, managing, and monitoring Azure resources. This means being responsible for provisioning virtual machines, configuring networks, setting up storage accounts, and managing identities. These tasks require a deep understanding of Azure services and how they interact within an enterprise architecture. For instance, when deploying a multi-tier application, the administrator must ensure secure communication between the front-end and back-end layers using virtual networks, network security groups, and possibly load balancers or application gateways.
Security is a crucial aspect of this role. Azure administrators must regularly audit permissions and ensure RBAC policies are applied appropriately. They must also implement security measures such as Azure Security Center, Defender for Cloud, and ensure that monitoring tools are capturing essential metrics and logs for performance and compliance.
Another key responsibility is maintaining availability and performance. Administrators use Azure Monitor and Azure Log Analytics to detect performance issues and potential failures. Setting up alerts, dashboards, and workbooks allows for proactive issue resolution and better decision-making.
Backup and disaster recovery planning is another vital duty. Azure administrators implement services such as Azure Backup and Site Recovery to ensure business continuity in case of system failure or data loss. Understanding how to configure and test these solutions is critical.
Moreover, automation is becoming increasingly important. Azure administrators are expected to write scripts using PowerShell or the Azure CLI to automate repetitive tasks such as provisioning resources, managing updates, or monitoring health checks. This reduces human error and increases operational efficiency.
Managing costs is another responsibility. Azure administrators must ensure that the cloud infrastructure is optimized. This includes resizing virtual machines, deleting unused resources, and using tools like Azure Cost Management and budgeting features to avoid overspending.
These real-world scenarios require a combination of technical skills and problem-solving ability. Passing the AZ-103 exam indicates that a candidate possesses the foundational skills necessary for such responsibilities, but continuous learning and experience are what elevate performance in a live environment.
Career Opportunities After AZ-103 Certification
Earning the Microsoft Azure Administrator AZ-103 certification opens the door to various cloud-based roles in the IT industry. With the increasing global adoption of Microsoft Azure as a cloud platform, professionals with hands-on knowledge and certification are in high demand. Organizations of all sizes—from startups to multinational corporations—are looking for skilled Azure professionals to help manage their infrastructure.
Typical job titles include:
- Azure Administrator
- Cloud Systems Administrator
- Infrastructure Engineer
- Cloud Support Engineer
- IT Systems Administrator
These roles often involve maintaining virtual infrastructure, supporting development teams, ensuring compliance with IT policies, and providing incident resolution. Employers typically value not only certification but also the candidate’s ability to demonstrate real-world expertise.
With cloud computing expanding into nearly every industry, certified Azure administrators are finding opportunities in sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, education, manufacturing, and more. This widespread adoption of cloud technologies makes the certification versatile and globally applicable.
Additionally, the certification positions you well for freelance or consulting work. Organizations often seek short-term experts to assist with Azure migrations, cost optimization, or system audits. Being certified boosts your credibility and marketability in these engagements.
For those who are already employed in IT, the AZ-103 certification can serve as a path to promotion or role transition. For example, a systems administrator in an on-premises environment may use the certification to transition into a cloud-based role, leading to increased responsibility and higher compensation.
Beyond just employment, the certification is a step toward broader Azure certification paths. After gaining experience as an administrator, you may pursue the Azure Solutions Architect certification (AZ-305) or specialize further in security, DevOps, or AI.
Professional development platforms, recruiters, and employers frequently list the Azure Administrator certification as a required or preferred qualification. Thus, acquiring it can significantly impact your career trajectory and provide new opportunities for growth and learning.
Continuous Learning and Staying Updated
While earning the AZ-103 certification is a significant achievement, it should be viewed as a starting point rather than a final destination. Azure, like all cloud platforms, is constantly evolving. Microsoft releases updates, new services, and changes to existing services frequently, sometimes even weekly. To remain relevant and effective, Azure professionals must embrace continuous learning.
One of the first steps in continuous learning is keeping up with official Azure updates. Microsoft publishes release notes, feature announcements, and blog posts detailing changes to services. Subscribing to newsletters or following Azure on community forums helps professionals stay informed.
Another strategy is participating in technical communities. Online forums, user groups, and discussion boards are valuable sources of insights, troubleshooting tips, and best practices. These communities provide a space for sharing real-world scenarios, code samples, and guidance from peers and experts.
Attending virtual or in-person conferences can also boost learning. Events such as Microsoft Ignite offer in-depth sessions on Azure services, architecture guidance, and industry trends. These sessions often include live demos, Q&A with engineers, and roadmap discussions, offering a deeper understanding of how Azure evolves.
Microsoft also provides continuous learning through Microsoft Learn. New learning paths and modules are added frequently, many of which are tailored to the latest exam changes or new Azure roles. Completing these modules helps professionals maintain and expand their knowledge.
To maintain certification status, Microsoft now requires individuals to renew their certifications annually. This is done through a free online assessment available on the Microsoft certification dashboard. Passing this renewal assessment ensures your credential remains active and reflects up-to-date knowledge.
Beyond Microsoft resources, books, video courses, and practice labs from third-party providers can supplement your learning. Engaging in hands-on labs and projects is perhaps the most effective way to retain knowledge and build confidence.
Pursuing adjacent certifications is another form of continuous learning. For example, after mastering administrative tasks, professionals may focus on:
- Azure Security (SC-200, SC-300)
- Azure DevOps (AZ-400)
- Data engineering or AI engineering on Azure
Each new certification deepens your expertise and broadens your career options. Learning never truly ends in the cloud domain—it is the foundation of success.
Final Thoughts
The AZ-103 exam has officially been retired and replaced by AZ-104. However, understanding the content and structure of AZ-103 still holds value, especially for individuals transitioning from older certifications or reviewing historical training materials. The AZ-104 exam builds upon the AZ-103 structure but introduces updated technologies, newer Azure features, and slightly different role expectations.
For those who are preparing for the latest version, the foundational knowledge gained from AZ-103 preparation remains highly relevant. The core tasks of managing virtual machines, networks, identities, and storage have not changed dramatically. What has evolved are best practices, newer features, and more focus on automation, security, and governance.
Candidates planning to take the AZ-104 exam should study updated modules and review new features introduced in Azure since AZ-103’s retirement. These might include improvements in Azure Arc, changes in Azure Monitor, or deeper integrations with services like Defender for Cloud and Azure Policy.
If you passed the AZ-103 exam before its retirement, you may still hold a valid Azure Administrator Associate certification. To maintain that certification, you should complete the renewal assessment for AZ-104 via your Microsoft certification dashboard. This ensures your certification reflects current technology and industry standards.
In conclusion, the journey from preparing for AZ-103 to progressing into AZ-104 or other certifications is a valuable one. It represents growth, adaptability, and dedication to professional development. Whether you’re beginning your Azure journey or seeking advancement, the knowledge gained from mastering AZ-103 lays the groundwork for a successful and fulfilling cloud career.