SC-200Microsoft Security Operations Analyst
Investigate and respond to threats across the Microsoft security stack
Details last reviewed January 2026. Fees and exam formats change — always confirm on the official page.
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
SC-200: quick answers
- How much does the SC-200 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 SC-200?
- We estimate roughly 120 hours of study for most candidates; your time depends on prior experience.
- How long is the SC-200 exam?
- The exam is 100 minutes with about 60 questions.
- How long is the SC-200 credential valid?
- 1 year. Free annual renewal assessment on Microsoft Learn
Study Resources
Contains affiliate linksTop picks for SC-200
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 SC-200 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
CyberSeek (cyber only)
NIST-backed supply/demand tool
Job links open external sites. Search results are live and not curated by MyCertPath.
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 year
- Salary Impact
- Strong (editorial rating)
- Last Reviewed
- January 2026
Prerequisites
- !Fundamental understanding of Microsoft 365 and Azure security
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