The Microsoft Azure Administrator (AZ-104) certification is one of the most sought-after credentials for IT professionals aiming to validate their expertise in managing and maintaining Azure environments. It certifies your ability to handle core Azure services — including compute, networking, storage, identity, and governance — making it a critical qualification for cloud administrators and infrastructure specialists.
A common question for every aspiring candidate is: How long should I prepare for the AZ-104 exam? The answer depends on your background, experience, and study approach. While some professionals with hands-on Azure experience may feel ready in just a few weeks, beginners might need several months to fully grasp the platform’s concepts and tools.
This blog breaks down how to estimate your preparation time based on experience level, outlines a realistic weekly study plan, and shares tips and resources to help you build both confidence and competence before sitting for the AZ-104 exam.
Understanding the AZ-104 Exam
Before deciding how long to prepare, it is essential to understand what the AZ-104: Microsoft Azure Administrator exam covers. This certification is part of Microsoft’s role-based certification path and validates your ability to manage cloud infrastructure in a professional setting. It is an associate-level credential, meaning it is meant for individuals who already have some familiarity with IT administration or cloud fundamentals.
Key Exam Details:
- Certification Name: Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate
- Exam Code: AZ-104
- Level: Associate
- Exam Duration: 120 minutes
- Question Format: 40-60 Multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, scenario-based, and performance tasks
- Passing Score: 700 out of 1000
- Exam Fee: Approximately USD 165 (varies by country)
- Delivery Mode: Online proctored or test center
Prerequisite Lessons for Azure Administrators
The AZ-104 prerequisites lessons for Azure Adminstrators include:
- Learn governance and Management in Azure
- Intro to Azure Virtual Machines
- Networking Fundamentals
- Network Security
- Using Azure CLI to control azure services
- Using Azure Powershell to automate azure tasks
- Intro to Azure Active Directory
- Intro to Docker Containers
- Intro to data storage in azure
- Learn data storage approach in azure
Let’s now look at the topics which the exam covers and which you need to know in detail for acing the exam.
AZ-104 Exam Course Outline and Official Documentation
The Microsoft AZ-104 exam topics include:
Module 1: Manage Azure identities and governance (20-25%)
1.1 Manage Microsoft Entra users and groups
- Create users and groups (Microsoft Documentation: Add or delete users using Azure Active Directory)
- Manage user and group properties
- Manage licenses in Microsoft Entra ID
- Manage external users
- Configure self-service password reset (SSPR) (Microsoft Documentation: Tutorial: Enable users to unlock their account or reset passwords using Azure Active Directory self-service password reset)
1.2 Manage access to Azure resources
- Manage built-in Azure roles
- Assign roles at different scopes
- Interpret access assignments
1.3 Manage Azure subscriptions and governance
- Implementing and managing Azure policy (Microsoft Documentation: Create and manage policies to enforce compliance)
- Configuring resource locks (Microsoft Documentation: Lock resources to prevent unexpected changes)
- Apply and manage tags on resources (Microsoft Documentation: Use tags to organize your Azure resources and management hierarchy)
- Managing resource groups (Microsoft Documentation: Move resources to a new resource group or subscription)
- Managing subscriptions (Microsoft Documentation: Organize and manage multiple Azure subscriptions)
- Manage costs by using alerts, budgets, and Azure Advisor recommendations (Microsoft Documentation: Use cost alerts to monitor usage and spending)
- Configuring management groups (Microsoft Documentation: Create management groups for resource organization and management)
Module 2: Implement and manage storage (15-20%)
2.1 Configure access to storage
- Configure Azure Storage firewalls and virtual networks
- Create and use shared access signature (SAS) tokens
- Configure stored access policies
- Manage access keys (Microsoft Documentation: Manage storage account access keys)
- Configure identity-based access for Azure Files
2.2 Configure and manage storage accounts
- Create and configure storage accounts
- Configure Azure Storage redundancy (Microsoft Documentation: Azure Storage redundancy)
- Configure object replication (Microsoft Documentation: Configure object replication for block blobs)
- Configure storage account encryption
- Manage data by using Azure Storage Explorer and AzCopy (Microsoft Documentation: Get started with AzCopy)
2.3 Configure Azure files and Azure blob storage
- Create and configure a file share in Azure Storage (Microsoft Documentation: Create an Azure file share)
- Create and configure a container in Blob Storage
- Configure storage tiers (Microsoft Documentation: Hot, Cool, and Archive access tiers for blob data)
- Configure snapshots and soft delete for Azure Files
- Configure blob lifecycle management (Microsoft Documentation: Configure a lifecycle management policy)
- Configure blob versioning
Module 3: Deploy and manage Azure compute resources (20-25%)
3.1 Automate deployment of resources by using Azure Resource Manager (ARM) templates or Bicep files
- Interpret an Azure Resource Manager template or a Bicep file
- Modify an existing Azure Resource Manager template
- Modify an existing Bicep file
- Deploy resources by using an Azure Resource Manager template or a Bicep file
- Export a deployment as an Azure Resource Manager template or convert an Azure Resource Manager template to a Bicep file
3.2 Create and configure Virtual Machines
- Create a Virtual Machine (Microsoft Documentation: Create a Windows virtual machine)
- Configure Azure Disk Encryption (Microsoft Documentation: Create and encrypt a Windows virtual machine with the Azure portal)
- Move a virtual machine to another resource group, subscription, or region (Microsoft Documentation: Move a Windows VM to another Azure subscription or resource group)
- Manage virtual machines sizes (Microsoft Documentation: Sizes for virtual machines in Azure)
- Add virtual machines disks
- Deploy virtual machines to availability zones and availability sets
- Deploy and configure an Azure Virtual Machines scale sets (Microsoft Documentation: Create a virtual machine scale set in the Azure portal)
3.3 Provision and manage containers in the Azure portal
- Create and manage an Azure container registry
- Provision a container by using Azure Container Instances
- Provision a container by using Azure Container Apps
- Manage sizing and scaling for containers, including Azure Container Instances and Azure Container Apps
3.4 Create and configure Azure App Service
- Provision an App Service plan
- Configure scaling for an App Service plan
- Create an App Service (Microsoft Documentation: App Service overview)
- Configure certificates and Transport Layer Security (TLS) for an App Service
- Map an existing custom DNS name to an App Service
- Configure a backup for an App Service (Microsoft Documentation: Back up and restore your app in Azure App Service)
- Configuring networking settings for an App Service (Microsoft Documentation: Configuring the Network)
- Configure deployment slots for an App Service
Module 4: Implement and manage virtual networking (15–20%)
4.1 Configure and manage virtual networks in Azure
- Create and configure virtual networks and subnets (Microsoft Documentation: Azure Virtual Network)
- Create and configure virtual network peering (Microsoft Documentation: Virtual network peering)
- Configure public IP addresses
- Configure user-defined network routes (Microsoft Documentation: Virtual network traffic routing)
- Troubleshoot network connectivity
4.2 Configure secure access to virtual networks
- Create and configure network security groups (NSGs) and application security groups (Microsoft Documentation: Network security groups)
- Evaluate effective security rules in NSGs (Microsoft Documentation: Effective security rules view in Azure Network Watcher)
- Implement Azure Bastion (Microsoft Documentation: Azure Bastion)
- Configure service endpoints for Azure platform as a service (PaaS)
- Configure private endpoints for Azure PaaS(Microsoft Documentation: private endpoint)
4.3 Configure name resolution and load balancing
- Configure Azure DNS
- Configure an internal or public load balancer (Microsoft Documentation: Create an internal load balancer)
- Troubleshoot load balancing (Microsoft Documentation: Troubleshoot Azure Load Balancer)
Module 5: Monitor and Maintain Azure resources (10-15%)
5.1 Monitor resources in Azure
- Interpret metrics in Azure Monitor (Microsoft Documentation: Metrics in Azure Monitor)
- Configure log settings in Azure Monitor (Microsoft Documentation: Azure Monitor Logs overview)
- Query and analyze logs in Azure Monitor(Microsoft Documentation: Get started with log queries in Azure Monitor)
- Set up alert rules, action groups, and alert processing rules in Azure Monitor (Microsoft Documentation: Create, view, and manage metric alerts using Azure Monitor)
- Configure and interpret monitoring of virtual machines, storage accounts, and networks by using Azure Monitor Insights (Microsoft Documentation: VM insights)
- Use Azure Network Watcher and Connection Monitor
5.2 Implement backup and recovery
- Create a Recovery Services vault (Microsoft Documentation: Create and configure a Recovery Services vault)
- Create Azure backup vault (Microsoft Documentation: Backup vaults overview)
- Create and configure backup policy
- Perform backup and restore operations by using Azure Backup (Microsoft Documentation: restore Azure VM data in Azure portal)
- Configure Azure Site Recovery for Azure resources (Microsoft Documentation: Azure to Azure disaster recovery architecture)
- Perform failover to a secondary region by using Site Recovery (Microsoft Documentation: Failover Azure VMs to a secondary region)
- Configure and interpret reports and alerts for backups (Microsoft Documentation: Configure Azure Backup reports)
What are the factors that Influence AZ-104 Exam Preparation Time?
The amount of time you need to prepare for the AZ-104 exam depends on several personal and professional factors. While Microsoft recommends at least six months of hands-on Azure experience, candidates with varying backgrounds may need more or less time to feel confident. Below are the key factors that influence your preparation timeline:
1. Prior Experience with Azure or Cloud Platforms
If you already work with Microsoft Azure or similar platforms like AWS or Google Cloud, your learning curve will be shorter. Experienced professionals often require 4–6 weeks of focused study, while beginners may need 10–12 weeks to grasp the fundamentals and perform practical exercises confidently.
2. Familiarity with IT Administration
Candidates with backgrounds in networking, virtualization, or system administration typically progress faster since many Azure services align with traditional IT concepts. Non-technical learners, on the other hand, should allocate extra time to build a strong foundation.
3. Study Method and Learning Style
- Instructor-led training, for instance from Skilr, or guided bootcamps help speed up preparation but require structured commitment.
- Self-paced learners may need more time depending on their consistency.
- A blended approach — combining video courses, reading materials, and labs — yields the best results.
4. Hands-On Practice
The AZ-104 exam is highly practical and task-based. Candidates who dedicate time to practice in the Azure Portal and Azure CLI perform significantly better. Relying on theory alone can extend preparation time and reduce exam readiness.
5. Time Availability
If you study part-time while working, you may need a longer timeline. A consistent 1–2 hours of daily study or 6–8 hours per week is ideal for steady progress.
6. Confidence and Mock Exam Performance
Your performance on practice exams is the best indicator of readiness. If you consistently score above 80% and can complete labs independently, you are likely ready for the real exam.
Ultimately, while preparation time varies, what matters most is depth of understanding — not just duration. Structured learning, regular practice, and active problem-solving will help you master the AZ-104 content efficiently.
Recommended Study Duration for AZ-104 Exam
The ideal preparation time for the AZ-104 Microsoft Azure Administrator Exam varies depending on your familiarity with cloud computing, prior experience in IT, and the amount of time you can dedicate each week. Below is a breakdown of how much preparation time you should plan for, based on your experience level:
| Experience Level | Recommended Preparation Time | Focus Areas | Approach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner (New to Cloud & Azure) | 10–12 weeks | Understanding Azure architecture, identities, storage, and networking basics | Follow Microsoft Learn paths from the ground up, use the Azure free tier for practice, and complete at least two full-length mock exams |
| Intermediate (Some Cloud or IT Experience) | 6–8 weeks | Strengthening administration, compute, and governance tasks | Practice Azure CLI and PowerShell commands; focus on real-world scenarios and cost management tools |
| Experienced (Hands-On Azure or IT Background) | 3–5 weeks | Reviewing domain coverage, command syntax, and case studies | Concentrate on revising core areas, running labs efficiently, and taking multiple practice tests to identify weak spots |
Key Takeaway
- Beginners should allocate more time to grasp the basics before diving into hands-on labs.
- Intermediate learners should prioritize deepening their understanding of networking, compute, and storage.
- Experienced professionals should focus on exam strategy and polishing practical efficiency.
Microsoft officially recommends six months of prior Azure administration experience, but with a disciplined plan, you can prepare effectively in 6–8 weeks — provided you study regularly and perform sufficient hands-on practice in the Azure environment.
Suggested Weekly Study Plan
A well-structured study plan helps you stay consistent, avoid burnout, and cover all domains systematically. The AZ-104 exam is practical in nature, so each week should include both concept learning and hands-on lab practice using the Azure Portal, Azure CLI, or PowerShell.
Below is an 8-week study roadmap adaptable to your pace and experience:
Weeks 1–2: Azure Foundations and Identity Management
- Learn about Azure architecture, subscriptions, and resource groups.
- Understand Azure Active Directory (AAD) and role-based access control (RBAC).
- Study governance tools such as Azure Policy and Cost Management.
- Practice: Create users, assign roles, and set up policies in Azure Portal.
Weeks 3–4: Storage and Compute Management
- Explore Azure storage accounts, blobs, files, and replication options.
- Study Azure Virtual Machines (VMs): creation, scaling, and extensions.
- Understand availability sets, zones, and virtual machine backups.
- Practice: Create and manage storage accounts and deploy VMs via Azure CLI.
Weeks 5–6: Networking and Security
- Learn about virtual networks (VNets), subnets, peering, and Network Security Groups (NSGs).
- Configure VPN gateways, load balancers, and DNS zones.
- Understand Azure Firewall, service endpoints, and private links.
- Practice: Build a secure network architecture with multiple subnets.
Weeks 7: Monitoring, Backup, and Optimization
- Study Azure Monitor, Log Analytics, and Alerts.
- Learn about backups, snapshots, and site recovery strategies.
- Review cost optimization and performance management.
- Practice: Set up alerts, monitor performance metrics, and configure recovery vaults.
Week 8: Review and Mock Exams
- Revise all exam domains using Microsoft Learn summaries.
- Take 2–3 full-length mock exams to simulate the actual test.
- Focus on areas where you score below 80%.
- Review Azure CLI and PowerShell commands for quick recall.
Tip for Working Professionals:
If you have limited study time, extend this plan to 10–12 weeks and allocate weekends for deeper lab sessions. Consistency is more important than speed — even 1–2 hours a day of focused study can yield strong results.
This roadmap ensures that by the end of your preparation, you not only understand Azure concepts but can also apply them practically, which is the key to passing the AZ-104 exam confidently.
AZ-104 Learning Resources and Study Guide 2025
The AZ-104: Microsoft Azure Administrator exam requires a blend of theoretical understanding and hands-on experience. To build both, it is important to rely on structured, high-quality learning resources. Below are the best official and third-party materials to guide your preparation.
1. Microsoft Learn (Official Platform)
The best starting point for all candidates. Microsoft Learn offers free, guided learning paths that align directly with the AZ-104 skill outline.
Learning Path: Prepare for AZ-104: Manage identities, governance, storage, compute, and networking in Azure
- Includes interactive modules, sandbox exercises, and review quizzes.
- Ideal for both beginners and experienced professionals looking for official coverage.
2. Instructor-Led Training (Microsoft Official Course)
If you prefer structured learning:
- Course Name: AZ-104T00: Microsoft Azure Administrator
- Duration: 4-day official course (available through Microsoft Learning Partners).
- Covers real-world scenarios, best practices, and guided labs with certified trainers.
3. Practice Labs and Hands-On Tools
Hands-on experience is the single most important factor for success.
- Use the Azure Free Tier or Microsoft Sandbox to experiment with real configurations.
- Focus on performing daily admin tasks like resource deployment, network setup, and policy management.
4. Online Learning Platforms
Complement your official learning with self-paced video tutorials from Skilr.
5. Practice Tests and Mock Exams
Assess your progress with full-length mock exams to identify weak areas:
- MeasureUp: Microsoft’s official practice test provider.
- Skilr: Known for scenario-based, detailed explanations.
6. Official Documentation and Whitepapers
For deeper understanding, refer to:
- Microsoft Azure Documentation: Covers all services in detail.
- Azure Architecture Center: Great for learning best practices in scalability, reliability, and security.
- Microsoft Cloud Adoption Framework: Helps you understand governance and cost control concepts.
Study Tip:
Use a 70-30 approach — spend 70% of your time on hands-on labs and 30% on theory and mock tests. This balance ensures you can confidently perform Azure administrative tasks, not just memorize facts.
Expert Corner
The AZ-104: Microsoft Azure Administrator Exam is a practical and rewarding certification that validates your ability to manage, monitor, and secure core Azure services. How long you need to prepare depends largely on your experience level and study consistency — but with a structured plan, most candidates can be exam-ready in 6 to 8 weeks.
Success in AZ-104 comes from hands-on learning, not memorization. Spending time in the Azure Portal, practicing with Azure CLI and PowerShell, and completing mock exams are the most effective ways to strengthen your skills and build real-world confidence.
Whether you are an IT professional transitioning to the cloud or an aspiring Azure administrator, this certification is a strong career milestone. It not only proves your technical expertise but also opens doors to higher-level Microsoft certifications and specialized cloud roles. With disciplined study and consistent practice, you can master the AZ-104 exam and take a confident step toward becoming a certified Azure expert.
