The Microsoft Azure Administrator Associate certification, known as AZ-104, validates the skills needed to manage Azure resources in real-world enterprise environments. As organizations continue relying on Azure for infrastructure, storage, and networking, this certification remains one of the most practical credentials for IT professionals working with cloud administration.

This guide covers everything you need to know about AZ-104 in 2026, including exam content, required skills, and a step-by-step approach to preparing effectively.

What Is the AZ-104 Certification?

AZ-104 validates the ability to implement, manage, and monitor Azure environments, including identity, governance, storage, compute, and virtual networking. It's designed for professionals who administer Azure resources daily rather than those focused purely on architecture or development.

Unlike foundational certifications such as AZ-900, AZ-104 requires hands-on, practical knowledge of Azure services and configurations.

Who Should Take AZ-104?

• IT administrators managing Azure infrastructure

• System administrators transitioning from on-premises to cloud environments

• Professionals holding AZ-900 who want to advance their Azure skills

• IT support staff responsible for day-to-day Azure resource management

Key Domains Covered in AZ-104

The AZ-104 exam is organized around core administrative responsibilities within Azure.

Manage Azure Identities and Governance

This domain covers managing Azure Active Directory objects, role-based access control (RBAC), subscriptions, and governance policies.

Implement and Manage Storage

Candidates need to understand configuring storage accounts, managing data within Azure Storage, and implementing storage security features.

Deploy and Manage Azure Compute Resources

This section covers virtual machines, containers, and app services, including configuration, scaling, and monitoring.

Configure and Manage Virtual Networking

This domain focuses on virtual networks, network security groups, load balancing, and connectivity between Azure resources.

Monitor and Maintain Azure Resources

Candidates must understand monitoring tools, backup solutions, and troubleshooting techniques used to maintain healthy Azure environments.

Key Skills Required for AZ-104

To succeed, candidates should build hands-on competence in the following areas:

• Configuring and managing Azure Active Directory objects

• Implementing role-based access control and governance policies

• Deploying and managing virtual machines and containers

• Configuring virtual networks, subnets, and network security groups

• Managing storage accounts and data redundancy options

• Monitoring resource health and configuring backup solutions

Benefits of Earning AZ-104

Earning this certification offers several practical advantages:

• Validates hands-on, job-ready Azure administration skills

• Widely recognized by employers hiring for cloud administrator roles

• Builds toward advanced certifications like AZ-305 (Solutions Architect Expert)

• Demonstrates practical competence beyond foundational cloud knowledge

• Strengthens career prospects in organizations adopting Microsoft cloud infrastructure

Advantages and Practical Value

AZ-104 certification holders gain more than a credential; they develop practical skills directly applicable to daily job responsibilities. Configuring virtual networks, managing storage, and troubleshooting compute resources are tasks administrators handle regularly in real Azure environments.

This certification also signals to employers that a candidate can manage cloud infrastructure independently, reducing onboarding time for organizations hiring cloud administrators.

Challenges and Limitations to Keep in Mind

Preparing for AZ-104 comes with a few common challenges:

• The exam requires hands-on experience, not just theoretical study

• Topics span multiple service areas, requiring broad practical knowledge

• Networking concepts can be challenging for candidates without prior networking background

• Azure services and interfaces update frequently, requiring current study materials

• Hands-on lab access may require a paid or trial Azure subscription

How to Prepare for AZ-104: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to structure your preparation effectively:

1. Review the official exam skills outline published by Microsoft to understand exactly what's tested.

2. Set up a free or trial Azure subscription to practice hands-on configurations.

3. Study Microsoft Learn modules dedicated to AZ-104, since they align directly with exam objectives.

4. Practice configuring virtual machines, storage, and networking in a sandbox environment.

5. Break down study sessions by domain, dedicating more time to heavily weighted areas like compute and networking.

6. Practice with realistic exam questions to identify weak areas before your test. Resources like the AZ-104 exam preparation materials from Cert Mage can help candidates work through scenario-based practice questions that reflect real exam conditions.

7. Take full-length practice exams under timed conditions to build exam-day stamina.

8. Schedule your exam once you consistently score well on practice assessments.

Practical Information for Exam Day

Before sitting for the AZ-104 exam, keep these points in mind:

• Confirm your exam format, whether in-person or online proctored

• Check system requirements in advance if testing remotely

• Bring valid identification as required by the testing provider

• Arrive early or log in ahead of time to avoid technical delays

• Manage your time carefully across scenario-based and configuration questions

Comparison: AZ-104 vs Other Azure Certifications

This comparison shows how AZ-104 fits within the broader Azure certification path, positioned as a practical, hands-on credential beyond foundational knowledge.

Tips and Best Practices

• Prioritize hands-on practice over passive reading whenever possible

• Use a trial Azure subscription to replicate real exam scenarios

• Focus extra time on networking concepts if you lack prior networking experience

• Review Microsoft's official documentation for services frequently tested on the exam

• Join AZ-104 study communities to learn from candidates who recently passed

Conclusion

The AZ-104 certification offers a practical, skills-focused credential for professionals managing Azure environments. With a structured study plan, consistent hands-on practice, and realistic exam simulation, most candidates can prepare effectively within a few weeks to a couple of months. Treat this certification as a meaningful step toward advanced Azure roles, and you'll be well-positioned for long-term growth in cloud administration.

FAQs

Is AZ-104 harder than AZ-900?

Yes. AZ-104 requires hands-on administrative skills and deeper technical knowledge, while AZ-900 focuses on foundational, conceptual understanding.

How long does it take to prepare for AZ-104?

Most candidates spend six to ten weeks preparing, depending on prior Azure experience and study consistency.

Do I need AZ-900 before taking AZ-104?

AZ-900 isn't a formal prerequisite, but it provides helpful foundational knowledge before tackling AZ-104's more technical content.

Is hands-on experience necessary for AZ-104?

Yes. Hands-on practice with real or trial Azure environments significantly improves your chances of passing this exam.

Can AZ-104 lead to advanced Azure certifications?

Yes. Many professionals use AZ-104 as a foundation before pursuing AZ-305 (Solutions Architect Expert) or specialized certifications like AZ-500.