SC-200Microsoft Security Operations Analyst
Investigate and respond to threats across the Microsoft security stack
Exam details independently verified January 2026
About this certification
SC-200 validates skills in threat investigation, hunting, and response using Microsoft Sentinel, Microsoft Defender, and Microsoft 365 Defender. It's the go-to certification for SOC analysts working in Microsoft-centric enterprise environments.
MyCertPath verdict
Microsoft's role-based credential for SOC analysts working in Microsoft Sentinel and Defender. Highly relevant if your organization runs the Microsoft security stack; less useful in non-Microsoft shops. Watch for retirement notices — Microsoft is overhauling its certification program in 2026.
What it actually tests
40–60 questions in 100 minutes covering Microsoft Sentinel, Microsoft Defender XDR, and threat-hunting workflows in the Microsoft stack. Expect KQL (Kusto Query Language) snippets and specific Defender and Sentinel configuration questions.
Common traps
Things candidates underestimate or get wrong on this exam.
- Studying generic SOC content. SC-200 is Microsoft-specific — Sentinel, Defender XDR, and KQL.
- Not practicing KQL queries. They appear directly in scenario questions.
- Ignoring Microsoft's 2026 certification refresh — verify the exam is still active before you schedule.
What you'll validate
- ✓Microsoft Sentinel (SIEM/SOAR)
- ✓Microsoft Defender for Endpoint
- ✓Microsoft Defender for Cloud
- ✓KQL (Kusto Query Language)
- ✓Threat hunting
- ✓Incident investigation and response
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +Microsoft Sentinel expertise is extremely in-demand
- +Low cost at $165 with free annual renewal
- +Directly validates SOC analyst skills
Disadvantages
- −Microsoft-ecosystem specific
- −Annual renewal required
Who it's for
Best for
- →SOC analysts in Microsoft environments
- →Security engineers using Azure Sentinel
- →IT professionals adding security credentials
Not ideal for
- ×Those in non-Microsoft security stacks
Career paths this unlocks
Study Resources
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Register for the exam
Free practice assessments on Microsoft Learn; 50% discount exams often available via Microsoft events
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Jobs for SC-200 holders
SC-200 holders report $10k–$30k+ salary uplift on average.
LinkedIn Jobs
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Indeed
Dice (tech roles)
Tech-focused job board
CyberSeek (cyber only)
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Quick Facts
- Exam Cost
- $165
- Exam Duration
- 100 minutes
- Questions
- ~60
- Passing Score
- 700/1000
- Exam Format
- Multiple Choice
- Study Time
- ~120 hours
- Validity
- 1 years
- Salary Impact
- Strong ($10k–$30k+ uplift reported)
- Last Verified
- January 2026
Prerequisites
- !Fundamental understanding of Microsoft 365 and Azure security
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