Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) is a conceptual, non-technical exam that proves you understand cloud basics, core Azure services, and how Azure handles cost and governance. There is no hands-on requirement, and the certification does not expire. This guide is study guidance only, with no real or simulated exam questions.
The three skill areas, and how to study each
1. Describe cloud concepts (25–30%)
The benefits of cloud computing, the service models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS), and the deployment models (public, private, hybrid), plus the shared responsibility model. Focus on why organisations use the cloud.
2. Describe Azure architecture and services (35–40%)
The core architectural components (regions, availability zones, resource groups) and the main services for compute, storage, networking and databases. Recognise what each is for at a high level.
3. Describe Azure management and governance (30–35%)
Cost management (pricing and TCO calculators, tags, budgets) and governance tools (Microsoft Entra ID, RBAC, Azure Policy, resource locks). A third of the exam, and easy marks once learned.
How to prepare
Microsoft Learn’s free Azure Fundamentals path plus the study guide is usually enough. A free Azure account makes the services concrete, though hands-on skill is not required. Avoid “exam dump” sites — they breach Microsoft policy and copyright.