Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate is a certification offered by Microsoft that validates a developer’s expertise in developing applications for the Azure cloud platform. To earn this certification, candidates must pass the Microsoft Azure Developer Associate certification exam (AZ-204).
The exam tests candidates on their ability to design, build, test, and maintain cloud solutions using Microsoft Azure technologies. Topics covered on the exam include Azure services and core solutions, developing Azure compute solutions, implementing Azure security, and monitoring, troubleshooting, and optimizing Azure solutions.
By earning the Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate certification, developers can demonstrate their proficiency in using Azure to develop cloud solutions, which can help them advance their careers and improve their job prospects. Additionally, companies that employ Azure developers can use this certification as a way to identify skilled candidates for their development teams.
Exam Information
| Name: Microsoft Azure Developer Associate | Code AZ-204 |
| Duration 120 Minutes | Format Either multiple-choice or multiple responses |
| Type Fundamental | Number of Questions 40-60 Questions |
| Passing Score 70-75% | Fee USD 165 |
| Language English Japanese Chinese (Simplified) Korean French German Spanish Portuguese (Brazil) Russian Chinese (Traditional) Italian Indonesian (Indonesia) Arabic (Saudi Arabia) | Validity 1 Year |
| Retake you can reappear in the exam only after 14 days. | Prerequisite None |
| Provider: Microsoft | Is Proctored: Yes |
| Training: optional | Test Center: Pearson Vue, Certiport, online |
Topics covered in the Exam
The Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate exam (AZ-204) covers a range of topics related to developing applications for the Azure cloud platform. The exam tests a candidate’s knowledge and skills in the following areas:
- Developing Azure compute solutions: This includes developing Azure App Service Web Apps, Azure Functions, Azure Container Instances, and Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS) solutions. Candidates should be able to design and develop scalable and resilient cloud solutions.
- Developing for Azure storage: This includes developing solutions that use Azure Blob Storage, Azure Cosmos DB, Azure Queue Storage, and Azure Table Storage. Candidates should be able to implement data storage solutions that are secure and scalable.
- Implementing Azure security: This includes implementing authentication and authorization solutions using Azure Active Directory, securing data at rest and in transit, and configuring network security solutions.
- Monitoring, troubleshooting, and optimizing Azure solutions: This includes using Azure Monitor to monitor and troubleshoot solutions, implementing Azure Application Insights, and optimizing Azure solutions for performance and cost.
- Connecting to and consuming Azure services and third-party services: This includes integrating Azure services with other services, implementing messaging solutions using Azure Service Bus and Event Grid, and using Azure API Management to create and manage APIs.
Candidates should also have experience with Azure development tools, such as Azure PowerShell, Azure CLI, Azure Portal, Azure SDKs, Visual Studio, and Visual Studio Code.
The exam objectives may change over time, so it’s important to check the official Microsoft website for the latest information on the exam content.
Preparation
Preparing for the Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate exam requires a combination of studying and hands-on experience with Azure development. Here are some steps you can take to prepare for the exam:
- Review the exam objectives: The first step in preparing for the exam is to familiarize yourself with the exam objectives. The exam objectives outline the topics that will be covered on the exam. You can find the exam objectives on the Microsoft website.
- Study relevant Azure documentation: Microsoft provides extensive documentation on Azure services and technologies. Reviewing this documentation can help you understand the various Azure services and how they are used in developing cloud solutions.
- Take online training courses: Microsoft offers online training courses that cover the topics tested on the exam. These courses are designed to help you gain the knowledge and skills needed to pass the exam. You can find these courses on the Microsoft website.
- Practice with hands-on labs: Azure offers a variety of hands-on labs that allow you to practice using Azure services and technologies. These labs are designed to help you gain practical experience with Azure development.
- Use practice exams: Microsoft offers practice exams that simulate the real exam. These practice exams can help you assess your knowledge and identify areas where you need to improve.
- Join study groups or communities: Joining a study group or community can provide you with access to resources and support from other Azure developers who are also preparing for the exam. You can find study groups and communities on social media platforms or online forums.
By following these steps and dedicating enough time and effort, you can increase your chances of passing the Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate exam and earning your certification.
How to Book Your Exam
To register for the Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate exam (AZ-204), follow these steps:
- Go to the Microsoft Certification website: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/learning/certification-overview.aspx
- Click on the “Azure Developer Associate” certification under the “Role-based certifications” section.
- Scroll down to the “Exam AZ-204: Developing solutions for Microsoft Azure” section and click on the “Schedule exam” button.
- Sign in to your Microsoft account or create a new account if you don’t have one.
- Follow the prompts to select the exam date, time, and location.
- Pay the exam fee using a valid payment method. The exam fee varies by country and region.
Once you have registered for the exam, you will receive a confirmation email with the exam details and instructions for accessing the exam on the day of the test. It’s important to review the exam policies and procedures on the Microsoft website before taking the exam to ensure that you understand the rules and requirements.
