How to Pick an Azure Certification Path That Is Right for You

You can enhance your IT career with Microsoft Azure cloud certification. However, it can prove challenging figuring out which learning path to pursue.

If you’re thinking of moving up in the world of information technology, Azure certification is a great way to do it. However, the path to Azure certification is different for everyone.

The cloud is complex. Learning the basics of cloud computing can prove overwhelming. However, there is an Azure certification path for your skill level whether you’re a beginner or a novice.

People choose Azure for different reasons. Some want to get started in cloud IT while others want to level up in their career. No matter where you’re at in your career, Azure Fundamentals certification is a great place to start.

To learn how to pick the right Azure cloud certification path for you, read on.

Getting Started With Azure Certification

Some people are IT beginners, and that’s fine. They know nothing about the cloud, but they know that the demand for professionals skilled in cloud technology is high.

If the only thing you know about Microsoft is Office 365, no worries. You can begin your path with Azure Fundamental certification. With Azure Fundamental certification, you will receive training that will help you understand cloud basics, even if you haven’t worked with anything more complex than MS Word.

It’s tempting to want to jump right into role-based certifications. However, it’s important to build a strong foundation in cloud fundamentals.

Azure Fundamental certification prepares you for the next levels in role-based training. It will also help you to become familiar with the certification testing process.

Once you learn the fundamentals, then it’s time to start thinking about the roles that you want to pursue in working with cloud-based technology. Depending on your preferences, there are different certifications. As you research the various roles, make sure that you look into the requirements, skills, and exams for each certification.

May the Force Be With You: Choosing a Path

Other IT professionals have some knowledge about the cloud. Students who fall into this category have limited IT experience.

They’ve done some work with services such as Azure and are ready to learn more. Accordingly, they’re ready to jump right into role-based training, right? Not so fast.

Azure Fundamentals certification is still a good place to start for novice cloud specialists. As with beginners, a strong grasp of the basics of cloud technology will prepare you for more advanced training.

Other Microsoft Azure certification candidates may already work with cloud-based technology. However, they want to up their game.

Usually, this happens after someone sees a job title they want to pursue. The next logical step is to go after certification that proves that they can fulfill the role.

In this instance, however, it’s important to understand that certifications don’t automatically qualify you for a role. If you’ve been eyeing that shiny, new job, you should investigate how closely Azure role-based certification aligns with the opening.

You may want to revise your job search to align with the skills that you learn during certification. Either way, it’s helpful to understand the skills you learn with each course.

The Lay of the Land: Microsoft Azure Learning Paths

Microsoft is sunsetting some of its well-known certifications. These expiring certifications include:

• Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)
• Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)
• Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD)
• Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Now, Microsoft certification is more focused on roles, rather than products.

Moving forward, you can learn MTA skills by earning Azure Fundamentals certification. You can earn the equivalent of MCSA credentials with Azure Associate Roles training. Meanwhile, you can learn both MCSD and MCSE skills with Azure Expert Roles training.

With Azure Associate Roles training, you will learn how to monitor and maintain Azure products. For example, you’ll learn how to work with primary applications for computing, storing, networking, and securing data.

You’ll learn the design, building, maintenance, and testing of cloud solutions with Azure Certified Solutions Architect training. For instance, you’ll learn to work with cloud solution architects, database administrators, and clients to deploy Azure.

Sometimes, you may hear the certification called Azure architect certification. You may also hear it called Azure developer certification.

With the Azure Security Engineer Associate certification, you’ll learn cybersecurity practices such as implementing controls, deploying cyber protection, and managing access and identities. You’ll also learn how to protect applications, data, and networks in cloud and hybrid cloud environments.

As an Azure DevOps Engineer expert, you’ll learn to code valuable custom applications that help businesses meet their needs using the Microsoft platform. This certification, however, focuses on more than Azure. You’ll also gain skills in current DevOps practices.

The Choice Is Yours: Introspection for Learners

Microsoft Azure certification is a phenomenal stepping-stone in a high-demand industry. Today, many enterprises are embracing cloud services. Analysts forecast that the demand for cloud computing will double in the next several years.

You can earn the skills needed to compete in the new age of cutting-edge cloud technology with Azure certification. With Azure certification, you can give yourself a competitive advantage over noncertified peers. It’s an excellent way to start on the path to a secure job and a rewarding salary.

Staying in Tune With Tech

Today, Azure certification is your ticket to gain a foothold in one of the most in-demand careers around. Tomorrow, however, you never know what new skills you may need.

Any IT guru worth their salt knows that the field is constantly changing. As a tech professional, it’s your job to stay on top of those trends. You never know when a change—whether big or small—may impact your career or organization.

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