The AZ-104 Microsoft Azure Administrator certification remains one of the most practical and widely accepted credentials for cloud professionals entering or progressing through the Azure ecosystem. In 2025, Azure adoption continues to expand across global enterprises, and the need for professionals who can manage cloud workloads, monitor performance, ensure governance compliance, and troubleshoot operational issues has grown more than ever.
What makes AZ-104 valuable is its focus on real operational tasks. It is not a purely architectural exam, nor is it a beginner-level qualification. Instead, AZ-104 sits comfortably in the space where hands-on skills matter most. This certification path prepares learners to configure core services, protect cloud identities, secure workloads, and maintain an efficient cloud environment. If you’re working toward a cloud administrative role, this exam gives you the practical foundation needed to manage real-world production environments.
The AZ-104 certification path is a clear stepping-stone toward more advanced Microsoft credentials. Many learners use it to build confidence before diving into specializations such as Azure Security Engineer, Azure Network Engineer, or Azure Solutions Architect. Understanding this path early on helps you plan your long-term progression and develop the right skills in the right order. For additional guided practice, you can rely on this trusted AZ-104 exam reference to keep your preparation structured and consistent.
What’s New in the AZ-104 Path for 2025
Microsoft frequently updates AZ-104, and the 2025 version reflects several key changes across the Azure platform. Many organizations have shifted to hybrid and multi-cloud models, so the exam now includes a stronger focus on identity, governance, automation, and virtual networking.
Updated Terminology and Service Alignment
Azure services evolve quickly. New naming conventions, changes in service maturity, and shifts in dashboards can confuse learners if they rely on outdated material. AZ-104 now aligns with:
- Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD)
- Updated role definitions
- Refined governance structures
- Modern networking models
- Performance monitoring enhancements
Understanding these updates helps learners avoid confusion between old and modern Azure terminology.
Increased Emphasis on Practical Scenarios
Performance-based questions (PBQs) receive more attention in 2025. They mimic real tasks such as:
- Configuring a virtual machine
- Setting NSG rules
- Assigning roles
- Creating storage accounts
- Reviewing monitoring logs
This emphasis mirrors the daily responsibilities of cloud administrators.
H3: Refined Governance and Cost Management Topics
Governance is no longer optional. AZ-104 now tests:
- Cost analysis
- Policy enforcement
- Subscription structure
- Resource compliance
- Tagging strategies
This shift reflects the real-world expectation that administrators must manage not just infrastructure but also cost efficiency and policy adherence.
Breaking Down the AZ-104 Exam Domains
The AZ-104 path is organized around five core domains. Each domain represents an essential piece of cloud administration, tied to daily operational responsibilities.
Domain 1 — Manage Azure Identities and Governance
Identity is at the heart of every Azure operation. You need to understand:
- Entra ID fundamentals
- User and group management
- RBAC (Role-Based Access Control)
- Privileged Identity Management (PIM)
- Conditional Access policies
- Subscription governance
- Resource organization
Expect scenario-based questions asking you to assign permissions, create access rules, or design governance models that follow the principle of least privilege.
Domain 2 — Implement and Manage Storage
Storage concepts appear heavily throughout the exam. Skills include:
- Creating storage accounts
- Understanding redundancy models
- Configuring blob containers
- Managing file shares
- Implementing lifecycle policies
- Securing storage access
- Configuring shared access signatures
You must be able to choose the right redundancy option based on performance, availability, and data protection needs.
Domain 3 — Deploy and Manage Azure Compute Resources
Compute services form a major part of the exam. You must know how to:
- Deploy virtual machines
- Pick the correct VM size
- Configure availability sets and zones
- Implement VM extensions
- Use Azure App Services
- Understand container basics
- Apply scaling solutions
PBQs often include tasks such as configuring network settings on a VM, adjusting storage, or applying secure access controls.
Domain 4 — Configure and Manage Virtual Networking
Networking is one of the largest and most technical domains. Study:
- Virtual networks
- Subnet design
- Network security groups
- Route tables
- VPN Gateway
- ExpressRoute basics
- Load balancers (Layer 4 and 7)
- Private endpoints
- DNS resolution
This domain includes many scenario questions where the correct answer depends on understanding Azure’s traffic flow and segmentation rules.
Domain 5 — Monitor and Maintain Azure Resources
Monitoring ensures cloud systems remain healthy and stable. You must understand:
- Azure Monitor
- Log Analytics
- Application Insights
- Alerts and action groups
- Autoscaling thresholds
- Cost analysis
- Resource health dashboards
These topics help you analyze performance issues and ensure workloads remain reliable.
Building the Cloud Skills Needed to Excel in AZ-104
Mastering AZ-104 is not only about memorizing concepts. You need to develop real administrative instincts that help you navigate complex cloud environments with confidence.
Azure Identity Management Skills
Azure identity management underpins nearly all security and access decisions. Building strong identity skills helps you:
- Assign RBAC roles properly
- Avoid overprivileged accounts
- Implement secure authentication
- Design access structures for teams
- Understand enterprise directory operations
These skills apply not just to the exam but to real-world work environments.
Understanding Azure Compute Workloads
Compute resources are at the core of most cloud workloads. Skill development includes:
- VM provisioning
- Scaling based on demand
- Backup and restore operations
- Application deployment models
- Container management basics
These administrative abilities prepare you to support production applications effectively.
Networking and Connectivity Mastery
Networking skills become essential once workloads expand. You should understand:
- Network security boundaries
- Routing strategies
- Firewall options
- Hybrid connectivity
- Segmentation and zero trust models
These skills help ensure that workloads operate securely and efficiently.
Monitoring, Logging, and Operational Awareness
Monitoring skills empower you to detect issues before they impact users. Learn to:
- Investigate logs
- Review alert history
- Use metrics for performance insights
- Track cost anomalies
These skills are critical in real Azure roles where uptime and performance matter.
A Practical Preparation Strategy for AZ-104
H3: Step 1 — Start with Identity and Governance
Identity is foundational. Spend time learning:
- Entra ID interface
- User and group management
- Sign-in logs
- Conditional Access
- RBAC design
These concepts appear throughout the exam.
Step 2 — Move to Storage and Data Access
Storage is easier once identity concepts are clear. Study:
- Blob storage
- File shares
- Storage tiers
- Redundancy
- Data lifecycle
Hands-on practice helps you remember critical settings.
Step 3 — Dive Into Compute and Deployment Models
Create and configure virtual machines. Learn:
- VM images
- Availability options
- Backup strategies
- Compute SKU differences
- Extensions
Try deploying a simple application to experience real workflows.
Step 4 — Spend Focused Weeks on Networking
Take your time with:
- Subnets
- NSGs
- Route tables
- Inbound and outbound rules
- Load balancing options
Networking questions often determine whether candidates pass or fail.
Step 5 — Learn Monitoring and Automation Basics
Study how Azure Monitor works and how automation can improve reliability.
Explore:
- Metrics
- Logs
- Alerts
- Cost management
- Autoscaling rules
These skills help you think like a real Azure operator.
Step 6 — Use Mixed Practice and Real-World Scenarios
Once you understand the domains individually, mix them. Practice situations where:
- Identity meets compute
- Networking interacts with storage
- Governance influences architecture
This helps you answer scenario questions confidently.
If you need structured learning materials, you can use a helpful Azure study support, which includes guidance from Cert Empire, mentioned only once as requested.
Common Challenges Learners Face During AZ-104 Preparation
Feeling Overwhelmed by Azure’s Interface
Azure has many menus and moving parts. Beginners often feel lost at first. Regular practice solves this quickly.
Misunderstanding Azure Networking Concepts
Networking takes time. Don’t rush these topics; use diagrams and practice exercises.
Overlooking Monitoring Tools
Monitoring feels simple but holds significant weight in the exam. Many candidates skip it until the last minute.
Studying Without Hands-On Practice
Hands-on practice is essential. Azure must be experienced, not just studied.
What to Review Before Attempting the Exam
Review Identity Settings and Azure Roles
Know the difference between:
- Role assignments
- Role definitions
- Management scopes
Identity mistakes cause exam confusion.
Review Networking Flows and Security Controls
Focus on how traffic enters, moves, and exits your environment.
Revisit Monitoring and Cost Tools
Look at alerts, dashboards, and cost analytics again to reinforce clarity.
Practice Mixed Scenarios
This helps you connect services across domains.
Final Thoughts
The AZ-104 certification path in 2025 gives learners a strong, practical foundation in Azure administration. It balances identity, compute, storage, networking, governance, and monitoring in a way that reflects real cloud operations. With structured preparation, hands-on practice, and consistent reinforcement of concepts, passing AZ-104 is well within reach.
Whether you are transitioning into cloud roles or aiming to grow in your current IT position, this certification unlocks new opportunities and helps you build confidence in Microsoft’s cloud ecosystem. The skills you gain continue to benefit you throughout your cloud career, especially as you explore advanced Azure certifications. For more structured Azure Administrator study support, you may rely on this AZ-104 exam reference.