AZ-900 vs MS-900: What are the points of Differences and Similarities?

Microsoft provides a range of certification exams to validate individuals' competencies and understanding in various technology domains. Among these exams are the AZ-900 and MS-900, focusing on cloud computing and Microsoft 365, respectively. Positioned as entry-level assessments, these exams are crafted to evaluate candidates' foundational comprehension of the respective technologies.

This article aims to deliver a comprehensive comparison of the AZ-900 and MS-900 exams. It will delve into the exam structure, content, target audience, and offer insights on effective preparation. Additionally, the article will draw parallels and distinctions between the two exams, providing recommendations based on career aspirations and preferences.

Overview of AZ-900 and MS-900 Exam

The AZ-900 and MS-900 exams, offered by Microsoft, serve as entry-level certifications. AZ-900 assesses foundational knowledge of cloud computing and Azure services, while MS-900 focuses on fundamental understanding of Microsoft 365 services, encompassing Office 365, Microsoft Teams, and security and compliance concepts.

Both exams, non-technical in nature, aim to evaluate candidates on fundamental concepts and advantages of the respective technologies. Passing either exam marks an excellent starting point for those entering the realms of cloud computing or Microsoft 365.

Significance of AZ-900 and MS-900 Certifications

AZ-900 and MS-900 certifications hold significance for professionals aiming to enhance their expertise in cloud computing and Microsoft 365 technologies. Key reasons include:

• Demonstrates expertise: Attaining either certification showcases a foundational understanding of Azure cloud computing or Microsoft 365 tools, valuable for impressing potential employers.
• Career advancement: Having these certifications on your resume can distinguish you in a competitive job market, opening doors to new career opportunities.
• Improves productivity: Deeper knowledge of Azure or Microsoft 365 allows certified professionals to work more efficiently, fostering increased productivity.
• Confidence: Certification instills confidence in one's skills, enabling individuals to take on new challenges with ease.
• Industry recognition: Globally recognized, AZ-900 and MS-900 certifications are highly regarded in the IT industry, signaling commitment to staying current with industry trends.

What is AZ-900 Exam?

The AZ-900 exam, a foundational level certification, evaluates a candidate's understanding of cloud computing and Azure services. It targets individuals new to Azure and cloud computing, seeking validation of their grasp on basic concepts.

The exam covers cloud principles, Azure services, workloads, security, privacy, Azure pricing, and support. While no prerequisite is necessary, the exam can serve as preparation for other Azure role-based or specialist certifications.

Exam format and structure:

• Format: Multiple choice questions
• Number of questions: 40-60 questions (varies)
• Passing score: 700 (on a scale of 0-1000)
• Exam cost: $99 USD (may vary by country and region)

The exam questions assess the candidate's grasp of fundamental cloud computing and Azure service concepts.

Areas Covered:

The exam spans four key knowledge areas:

• Cloud Concepts: Principles of cloud computing, types of cloud services, deployment models, and advantages.
• Core Azure Services: Azure compute, storage, networking, and databases.
• Azure Pricing and Support: Azure pricing models, subscriptions, and support options.
• Security, Privacy, Compliance, and Trust: Azure security features, privacy, compliance standards, and trust centers.

What is MS-900 Exam?

The MS-900 exam, also foundational, evaluates a candidate's knowledge of Microsoft 365 services and concepts. Geared towards those new to Microsoft 365, the exam validates foundational-level knowledge of cloud-based solutions for productivity and collaboration.

Covering desktop virtualization, automated OS deployment, endpoint and application management, and reporting, the exam assesses knowledge of Microsoft 365 license, deployment, migration support, and optimizing cloud investments.

Exam format and structure:

• Format: Multiple choice questions
• Number of questions: 40-60 questions (varies)
• Passing score: 700 (on a scale of 0-1000)
• Exam cost: $99 USD (may vary by country and region)

Areas Covered:

The exam spans four main knowledge areas:

• Understand Cloud Concepts: Principles of cloud computing, types of cloud services, deployment models, and advantages.
• Learn Microsoft 365 Services and Concepts: Different Microsoft 365 services, including Exchange Online, SharePoint Online, and Teams.
• Understand Microsoft 365 Pricing and Support: Microsoft 365 pricing models, subscriptions, and support options.
• Learn Cloud Security and Compliance: Security features of Microsoft 365 services, including identity and access management, threat protection, and compliance standards.

AZ-900 and MS-900 Exam Content Similarities

Although the AZ-900 and MS-900 exams share overlapping content—both covering cloud computing concepts, deployment models, and security and compliance standards—their focus on specific technologies renders unique content for each exam.

Common areas of overlap include:

• Cloud Concepts: Fundamental principles of cloud computing, encompassing types of cloud services, deployment models, and advantages.
• Compliance and Cloud Security: Security features of cloud services, including identity and access management, threat protection, and compliance standards.
• Cloud Pricing and Support: Different pricing models, subscriptions, and support options for cloud services.
• Microsoft Azure vs Microsoft 365: Distinctions between Microsoft Azure and Microsoft 365, along with their respective services and benefits.

While overlapping content exists, each exam maintains a specific focus and covers a distinct set of topics. It's crucial to select the exam aligning with one's career goals and interests.

AZ-900 and MS-900 Differences in Content

While there is content overlap between the AZ-900 and MS-900 exams, distinctions exist in the topics covered. Key areas of difference include:

• Azure Services vs Microsoft 365 Services: AZ-900 concentrates on Azure services, encompassing compute, storage, networking, and databases. MS-900, in contrast, focuses on Microsoft 365 services, including Exchange Online, SharePoint Online, and Teams.
• Azure Machine Learning and AI: AZ-900 delves into the basics of machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) in Azure services, covering Azure Machine Learning and cognitive services. MS-900 excludes these topics.
• Azure IoT: AZ-900 explores Azure Internet of Things (IoT) services, such as IoT Hub, IoT Central, and Azure Sphere, which MS-900 does not cover.
• Identity and Access Management: Both exams cover identity and access management, but AZ-900 addresses it in the context of Azure services, while MS-900 focuses on Microsoft 365 services.
• Compliance Standards: Both exams cover compliance standards, with AZ-900 addressing it in the context of Azure services and MS-900 in the context of Microsoft 365 services.

Technical vs. Non-Technical: AZ-900 and MS-900

Designed for a diverse audience, including both technical and non-technical individuals, both the AZ-900 and MS-900 exams differ in technical depth.

The AZ-900 exam is more technical, covering basic technical concepts of Azure services, machine learning, and AI, requiring a foundational understanding of programming and data analysis.

Conversely, the MS-900 exam is less technical, focusing on basic concepts of Microsoft 365 services, including Exchange Online, SharePoint Online, and Teams, without a mandatory technical background. While technical knowledge is beneficial, it is not compulsory.

Both exams assess understanding of fundamental cloud computing and service concepts, with AZ-900 demanding a higher technical background than MS-900.

The Difficulty Level of AZ-900 and MS-900 Exams

Both the AZ-900 and MS-900 exams are entry-level assessments, gauging candidates' grasp of fundamental cloud computing and service concepts.

However, the technical knowledge required varies. AZ-900 demands a more technical background, covering basic technical concepts of Azure services, machine learning, and AI. This may pose a greater challenge for candidates lacking a technical background.

On the other hand, the MS-900 exam, while covering Microsoft 365 services, does not mandate technical knowledge, making it comparatively more accessible for candidates without a technical background.

AZ-900 vs MS-900: Target Audience

The AZ-900 and MS-900 exams cater to distinct audiences, aligning with diverse career paths in the cloud computing industry:

AZ-900:

• Designed for those pursuing a career in Azure services.
• Suitable for business decision-makers understanding cloud basics, technical professionals learning fundamental cloud concepts, and students preparing for a cloud-focused career.

MS-900:

• Geared towards individuals interested in Microsoft 365 services.
• Appropriate for business decision-makers comprehending Microsoft 365 basics, technical professionals grasping fundamental Microsoft 365 concepts, and students preparing for a cloud-centric career with a focus on Microsoft 365 services.

In essence, AZ-900 suits those intrigued by Azure services, while MS-900 caters to individuals drawn to Microsoft 365 services. Both exams provide solid starting points for careers in the cloud computing industry.

AZ-900 and MS-900: Preparation Tips

Effective preparation is crucial for success in the AZ-900 and MS-900 exams. Consider the following tips:

• Understand the exam format and structure: Familiarize yourself with the number of questions, time limits, and question types to manage your time efficiently during the exam.
• Study the exam objectives: Review the exam objectives to comprehend covered concepts and topics. Find these objectives on the Microsoft certification website.
• Use official study materials: Leverage Microsoft's official study materials, including online courses, practice tests, and study guides, designed to cover all exam objectives.
• Take practice tests: Assess your knowledge and identify areas for improvement by utilizing official practice tests, gaining detailed feedback on your performance.
• Hands-on experience: If possible, gain hands-on experience with Azure and Microsoft 365 services. This practical knowledge is applicable in real-world scenarios.
• Join study groups or forums: Connect with others preparing for the exam, ask questions, and share knowledge and resources in study groups or forums for additional support.
• Manage your time effectively: Create a study schedule that allocates sufficient time for each topic, ensuring comprehensive coverage of exam objectives. Take breaks to avoid burnout.

Which Exam to Choose?

Choosing between the AZ-900 and MS-900 exams requires consideration of career goals, interests, and job requirements. Here are tips for each factor:

Career Goals:

• Azure Services: Opt for AZ-900 if pursuing a career in Azure services. It covers key Azure concepts, services, security, privacy, compliance, and pricing.
• Microsoft 365 Services: Choose MS-900 for a career in Microsoft 365 services. It covers Microsoft 365 concepts, services, security, compliance, and privacy.
• General Cloud Computing: Either exam is suitable for a career in cloud computing, covering fundamental cloud concepts, security, privacy, compliance, and pricing.