AZ-104Microsoft Azure Administrator
Core Azure administration for cloud professionals
Details last reviewed January 2026. Fees and exam formats change — always confirm on the official page.
About this certification
The AZ-104 validates skills in implementing, managing, and monitoring Azure infrastructure. It covers virtual machines, storage, networking, identity, and resource governance — the day-to-day responsibilities of an Azure Administrator.
What you'll validate
- ✓Azure Virtual Machines
- ✓Azure Storage
- ✓Virtual Networking
- ✓Azure Active Directory
- ✓Identity and access management
- ✓Resource governance
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +Essential for Azure-focused careers
- +Only 1-year renewal (free online assessment)
- +Strong demand in enterprise and government
- +Lower exam cost than AWS
Disadvantages
- −Annual renewal required
- −Azure-specific — limited to Microsoft ecosystem
- −Exam can include challenging scenario questions
Who it's for
Best for
- →IT admins working in Azure environments
- →Windows Server professionals moving to cloud
- →Those in Microsoft-heavy enterprise shops
Not ideal for
- ×AWS or GCP shops
- ×Beginners (start with AZ-900)
Career paths this unlocks
AZ-104: quick answers
- How much does the AZ-104 exam cost?
- The listed exam fee is $165 (USD). Fees vary by region and change over time — confirm on the official page before you buy.
- How long does it take to prepare for AZ-104?
- We estimate roughly 120 hours of study for most candidates; your time depends on prior experience.
- How long is the AZ-104 exam?
- The exam is 100 minutes with about 40 questions.
- How long is the AZ-104 credential valid?
- 1 year. Free online renewal assessment required annually
Study Resources
Contains affiliate linksTop picks for AZ-104
Register for the exam
Free practice assessments on Microsoft Learn; 50% discount exams often available via Microsoft events
More places to study
Self-paced video courses from independent instructors
Courses and certificates from universities and companies
Practice exams focused on AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud
Practice tests and hands-on labs for IT certifications
Printed and Kindle exam guides
Subscription video courses
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Jobs for AZ-104 holders
Pay depends on role, location, and experience more than on any single credential. Check current postings below for real ranges in your market.
LinkedIn Jobs
Posted in the last 7 days
Indeed
Dice (tech roles)
Tech-focused job board
Job links open external sites. Search results are live and not curated by MyCertPath.
Quick Facts
- Exam Cost
- $165
- Exam Duration
- 100 minutes
- Questions
- ~40
- Passing Score
- 700/1000
- Exam Format
- Multiple Choice + Performance
- Study Time
- ~120 hours
- Validity
- 1 year
- Salary Impact
- Strong (editorial rating)
- Last Reviewed
- January 2026
Prerequisites
- !AZ-900 recommended; 6+ months Azure hands-on experience
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