Become Job Ready in Azure: Start with the AZ-104 Certification
Oct 23, 2025
As growing companies transition to cloud computing from physical computers for data storage, app running, and IT service management over the internet, it becomes clear that Microsoft Azure is one of the most popular cloud platforms among numerous enterprises.
A great first step for anyone looking to establish a career in cloud technology would be the AZ-104 certification, which tests you on skills like using and managing Azure services, from virtual machines to storage and security.
Now that you have cleared AZ-104, you have a chance to apply for numerous tech jobs. The following are just some roles achievable and explanations of what each involves.
What is the AZ-104 Certification?
The AZ-104 exam is aimed at individuals who intend to become Microsoft Azure Administrators. They set up the cloud, manage, and monitor performance with Azure. As a team, they ensure proper cloud service delivery in the areas of storage, VMs, networking, and security.
Skills You Should Have:
To take the AZ-104 exam:
Should have at least about 6 months of experience in using Azure.
Be aware of Azure services, security, and cost management.
Know how to use PowerShell, Azure CLI, and the Azure portal.
Comfortable in the management of virtual machines, networks, and storage in Azure.
Salary and Career Progression of Job Post-AZ-104
Passing the AZ-104 exam opens the door to better jobs with salary hike opportunities. According to Payscale, the average salary of an Azure Administrator will be around 6 to 15 lakhs INR & around $70,000 USD per annum; however, this varies according to experience and skill, as well as the location.
Increased experience level with added certifications can achieve even bigger sums over time. The cloud job market is experiencing rapid growth; hence, certified Azure professionals enjoy good job security alongside many available career paths.
Some Job Roles After AZ-104 Certification
Azure Administrator
An Azure Administrator manages the cloud services provided by Microsoft Azure. They provision and maintain resources such as virtual machines, networks, and storage. They monitor for performance and security. The cloud administrator is also charged with monitoring for consumption and ensuring that the cloud costs are kept to a minimum. It is hands-on work that is concerned with keeping the cloud systems running daily.
Cloud Engineer
The Cloud engineers design and maintain the cloud infrastructure of an organization. They help ensure maintenance and operations to shift applications and data to the cloud. They write scripts to automate some tasks in the cloud. Cloud engineers may also work with other teams to analyze problems and improve cloud solutions. Their primary responsibility is to ensure the cloud is fast, secure, and highly available.
Azure-focused Systems Administrator
The role focuses on managing the daily operational processes of the company's Azure cloud system. This consists of monitoring issues, installing patches and updates, and keeping the system operational. This also includes contributing to managing user accounts and access permissions. If something goes wrong, the systems administrator is usually the one who gets it back going quickly, often in collaboration with other IT teams to ensure the overall connectivity and stability of the system.
DevOps Engineer
The DevOps engineers speed up builds and releases of software. Their role utilizes various tools in Azure for automated testing, building, and deployment. They ensure that applications are working without a hitch in the cloud. DevOps engineers partner closely with developers and IT teams to foster collaboration, enhance performance, and reduce time to delivery.
Cloud Architect
A cloud architect generates plans and designs for cloud systems in enterprises. Depending on the company's needs, they propose appropriate Azure platforms and services. They cooperate with teams in handling data and applications in a secure manner within the cloud. Cloud Architects prioritize security, performance, and expenditure. They will frequently oversee cloud projects while guiding team implementation during profound change processes.
AZ-104 Exam Preparation
The AZ-104 exam is a combination of theory and practical; it requires a simple but effective study plan to prepare for the exam.
Know the Exam Format
40-60 multiple-choice questions.
150 minutes.
Passing Marks: 700 out of 1000.
Review Official Exam Topics
Access the Microsoft official AZ-104 page for the latest exam outline.
Learn Azure Basics
If cloud is new to you, you should start with the AZ-900 course: Azure Fundamentals.
Get Hands-On Experience
Set up storage, virtual machines, and networks with a free Azure account.
Use Study Resources
Enroll yourself in suitable online courses, read books, and take practice tests to see if you have understood anything.
Join the Online study course
Join a good, structured course that can help you build the foundations to becoming a Microsoft Azure Cloud expert.
Practice Tests Help
The best way to analyze yourself with regard to the understanding of subjects and the place of improvement is through mock exams with hands-on lab practice.
Final Thoughts
Getting the AZ-104 certification is a great way to start or grow your career in cloud computing. It shows that you have the skills to manage Microsoft Azure and helps you qualify for in-demand jobs like Azure Administrator, Cloud Engineer, DevOps Engineer, and more.
To prepare for the exam and build real-world skills, it's important to choose the right learning platform. Skills for Everyone is one of the best online platforms for this. It offers training from industry experts with over 10 years of experience, step-by-step learning paths, and hands-on labs to help you practice. You’ll also get career support, such as help with your resume, interview tips, and job connections to guide you all the way into the tech industry.
With the right training and dedication, you can earn your AZ-104 certification and start a successful career in the world of cloud technology.
