Starting a career in IT can feel like learning to ride a bike. Some people find their balance right away, but for many, especially those without much prior exposure to computers or tech work, it takes a little more effort and support. Certifications can act as training wheels, giving newcomers a structured and confidence-building way to get started.
If you’re considering switching careers to IT, there’s no shame in beginning with the basics. Getting certified in foundational IT concepts can be the smartest step you take. These certifications demonstrate that you know how to walk before trying to run, and employers value that. Think of it like seeing a doctor: you wouldn’t trust someone who skipped the basics of medicine. The same logic applies to hiring IT professionals.
In this four-part guide, we’ll explore four of the most accessible IT certifications that are ideal for newcomers. We’ll focus on certifications that don’t require previous experience, have minimal prerequisites, and offer a fast path to learning fundamental IT skills.
Criteria for Selection
To ensure these certifications are suitable for beginners, we’ve considered the following:
- No prior certifications or exams are required
- Little to no hands-on experience or theoretical knowledge is needed
- Shorter study times and straightforward subject material
With this in mind, let’s dive into the first certification.
CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ (ITF+)
What Is It?
CompTIA is one of the most well-known organizations for IT certifications, and their IT Fundamentals+ (ITF+) certification is designed specifically for people just starting out in the tech world. It introduces the basic principles of computers, IT infrastructure, and software development.
ITF+ is ideal for people with little to no experience. Whether you’re switching careers, re-entering the workforce, or simply exploring your options, this certification helps you understand the essential elements of IT.
What You’ll Learn
- The basics of computer hardware and software
- How data is managed and stored
- Introduction to IT infrastructure and networking
- Common security concerns and best practices
- Software development concepts and database fundamentals
Who Should Take It?
ITF+ is perfect for total beginners. If you’ve never worked in IT or even if you’ve only used computers for basic tasks, this certification gives you the language and context needed to take your next steps.
However, if you already have some experience or have tinkered with tech on your own, you might find the content too basic. In that case, jumping directly to CompTIA A+ or Network+ might make more sense.
Cost and Exam Details
The exam typically costs around $130. It’s a single exam with about 75 questions that cover the fundamentals of IT in various domains.
Next Steps After ITF+
Once you’ve earned your ITF+, you’re in a great position to pursue:
- CompTIA A+: A more advanced certification that covers hardware, troubleshooting, and IT support
- CompTIA Network+: Focused on networking and connectivity
Study Resources
There are many resources available for preparing for ITF+, and one of the best options is labs. They provide:
- Practice tests
- Flashcards and quizzes
- Study guides and explanations
- Video lectures to support different learning styles
CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ is an excellent launching pad for an IT career. It builds your confidence, teaches essential terminology, and sets you up for more advanced certifications. If you’re unsure where to start, this is a low-pressure, high-reward option.
LPI Linux Essentials Certificate
Introduction to Linux and the LPI Linux Essentials Certificate
Linux powers everything from smartphones to servers. It’s a dominant force in web hosting, supercomputers, and even smart appliances. For those considering a future in systems administration, cybersecurity, DevOps, or cloud computing, understanding Linux is essential.
The LPI Linux Essentials Certificate is an entry-level certification designed to validate foundational Linux knowledge. It introduces students to the Linux operating system and the open-source ecosystem.
Who Should Consider Linux Essentials
The LPI Linux Essentials certificate is perfect for:
- Students or job seekers interested in Linux
- Professionals exploring open-source technology
- Individuals seeking entry-level jobs in IT support
- Aspiring system administrators or DevOps engineers
Exam Overview
- Exam code: 010-160
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Number of questions: 40
- Format: Multiple choice and fill-in-the-blank
- Passing score: 500 (on a scale of 800)
Key Concepts Covered
The Linux Community and Career Opportunities
- Understanding open-source licensing
- Impact of open-source on the tech industry
- Linux distributions and their uses
Finding Your Way on a Linux System
- Command line basics
- File management and directory navigation
- Working with users and groups
The Power of the Command Line
- Using pipes and redirection
- Command syntax and chaining
- File editing with command-line editors like nano and vi
The Linux Operating System
- System architecture
- Boot process
- Hardware components and kernel modules
Security and File Permissions
- Understanding file ownership and permissions
- Changing file permissions with chmod
- Understanding root access and privilege escalation
Benefits of Linux Essentials
- Globally recognized certification
- Builds a strong base for more advanced Linux certifications
- Demonstrates initiative and technical interest to employers
- Vendor-neutral, covering various Linux distributions
How to Prepare for the Exam
Many beginners succeed in passing the exam using self-paced online resources. labs provides an excellent platform for preparation, offering:
- Video tutorials
- Practice quizzes and flashcards
- Lab simulations to build command-line confidence
Hands-on experience is key, and setting up a Linux virtual machine using VirtualBox or VMware is highly recommended. Ubuntu and CentOS are popular distributions for beginners.
Recommended Study Timeline
- 4–6 weeks with steady practice (1–2 hours/day)
- Practice basic shell commands and file operations daily
- Take at least two practice exams from labs
Career Paths After Linux Essentials
Once certified, candidates can explore more advanced Linux certifications or pivot into related areas. Recommended next steps include:
- LPI LPIC-1: Entry-level Linux administrator certification
- CompTIA Linux+: Another vendor-neutral certification with real-world application
- Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA): For those interested in Red Hat-based systems
These certifications can lead to roles such as:
- Junior Linux administrator
- Technical support specialist
- DevOps technician
- System engineer (entry-level)
The LPI Linux Essentials Certificate is the best first step for anyone intrigued by Linux or aiming for a career involving open-source technologies. It’s approachable, practical, and provides the core understanding needed to dive deeper into Linux-based systems. With a modest time investment and hands-on experimentation, candidates will gain skills that remain in high demand across the tech industry.
CompTIA A+
Introduction to CompTIA A+
The CompTIA A+ certification is one of the most recognized entry-level credentials in the IT industry. It serves as a foundational certification that prepares individuals for a wide range of IT support and technical roles. Unlike more specialized certifications, CompTIA A+ covers a broad spectrum of essential IT skills, making it the go-to certification for those aiming to begin a hands-on technical career.
Whether you’re troubleshooting a slow computer, setting up a network printer, or removing malware from a client system, the knowledge gained from A+ is practical and immediately applicable. It’s often the first certification listed on job requirements for positions such as technical support specialist, IT support technician, and help desk analyst.
CompTIA A+ is one of the most well-recognized and respected entry-level certifications in the IT industry. It serves as a foundational credential for individuals seeking to build a career in technical support, IT operations, or help desk roles. Unlike more general certifications such as IT Fundamentals+, CompTIA A+ is designed to validate practical, hands-on skills that are directly applicable to real-world job scenarios.
For over two decades, the A+ certification has been a reliable measure of core IT competencies. Employers across the globe often list it as a preferred or required qualification for entry-level IT positions. The certification is vendor-neutral, meaning it covers a wide range of technologies, tools, and platforms without focusing on any one brand, making it versatile and broadly applicable.
The CompTIA A+ certification is especially suitable for those who have some familiarity with computers and want to solidify their technical knowledge. It covers topics such as hardware installation and configuration, software troubleshooting, operating systems, mobile devices, cloud computing basics, and network fundamentals. This breadth of coverage ensures that certified individuals are prepared to handle a wide variety of support issues in a professional environment.
To earn the CompTIA A+ certification, candidates must pass two separate exams:
- Core 1 (220-1101)
- Core 2 (220-1102)
Each exam includes a mix of multiple-choice questions, drag-and-drop activities, and performance-based simulations that test a candidate’s ability to solve problems in real-time. Core 1 focuses on hardware, networking, mobile devices, and virtualization, while Core 2 centers around operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures.
The A+ certification stands out for its emphasis on performance-based testing. Candidates are not only required to memorize facts but also demonstrate their ability to apply that knowledge in simulated, practical environments. This focus on real-world skills makes A+ holders more confident and capable when entering the workforce.
Preparing for the A+ exams can be a rigorous but rewarding process. Candidates can utilize various learning resources such as study guides, video tutorials, hands-on labs, and practice exams. One popular resource is labs, which provides structured courses, mock exams, and interactive labs tailored to both Core 1 and Core 2 content. This helps candidates reinforce their learning and identify any areas where they need more practice.
A well-planned study timeline for the A+ certification usually spans 8–12 weeks, depending on a candidate’s background and daily study commitment. Many learners dedicate 1–2 hours per day, gradually increasing their focus on simulation-style questions and troubleshooting techniques as they approach their exam dates.
Earning the CompTIA A+ certification opens up multiple career opportunities. Common job titles for A+ certified professionals include:
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Desktop Support Technician
- Field Service Technician
- Technical Support Analyst
Moreover, A+ is often the first step in a longer certification path. Many professionals go on to pursue CompTIA Network+, Security+, or even vendor-specific certifications such as Microsoft or Cisco credentials.
CompTIA A+ is an excellent starting point for individuals serious about a career in IT. It not only validates essential technical skills but also builds the confidence and credibility needed to land your first job in tech. Whether you’re transitioning from another field or just getting started, A+ provides a solid foundation to grow and specialize in various areas of information technology.
Who Should Consider CompTIA A+
The A+ certification is ideal for:
- Beginners with basic computer knowledge
- Recent graduates looking to enter the IT field
- Career changers transitioning into technology.
- IT support professionals seeking formal certification.
Exam Overview
CompTIA A+ is divided into two separate exams:
- Core 1 (220-1101): Focuses on hardware, networking, mobile devices, and troubleshooting
- Core 2 (220-1102): Covers operating systems, software troubleshooting, security, and operational procedures
Each exam includes:
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Number of questions: Up to 90
- Format: Multiple choice, performance-based, and drag-and-drop
- Passing score: 675 for Core 1 and 700 for Core 2 (on a scale of 100–900)
- Cost: Approximately USD 246 per exam
Key Concepts Covered
Core 1 (220-1101)
- Mobile devices: Configuration and troubleshooting of smartphones and tablets
- Networking: Wired and wireless network technologies, TCP/IP, Wi-Fi troubleshooting
- Hardware: Installing and maintaining PCs, printers, and storage devices
- Virtualization and cloud computing: Virtual machines, cloud concepts
- Hardware troubleshooting: Diagnosing and resolving device and connectivity issues
Core 2 (220-1102)
- Operating systems: Windows, macOS, Linux, mobile OS
- Security: Threats, vulnerabilities, best practices for data protection
- Software troubleshooting: Common issues and resolutions
- Operational procedures: Professionalism, safety, documentation, and disaster prevention
Benefits of CompTIA A+
Why CompTIA A+ is a Smart Career Investment
The CompTIA A+ certification stands as one of the most widely respected and versatile entry-level credentials in the IT industry. It validates essential technical skills across a variety of devices and operating systems. While it is just one step on a longer journey toward IT mastery, it offers substantial benefits that can serve as a strong launching pad for a career in information technology.
Whether you’re an aspiring technician, a career changer, or a student preparing to enter the workforce, CompTIA A+ opens the door to a wide range of opportunities. This section explores the key advantages of earning the A+ certification.
Industry Recognition and Employer Trust
CompTIA A+ is globally recognized and vendor-neutral, meaning its relevance spans multiple hardware platforms and software environments. Employers across industries frequently list it as a minimum qualification for support and help desk roles.
A+ certification demonstrates to hiring managers that you have a solid grasp of fundamental IT skills. This is particularly valuable for individuals who may lack formal education or professional experience in the field. When placed on a resume, the A+ certification shows that the candidate has put in the work to understand key IT principles, making them a safer bet for entry-level roles.
Versatile Knowledge Base
One of the most significant benefits of CompTIA A+ is its broad coverage of IT subjects. The certification consists of two exams—Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102)—which together span a wide array of foundational topics:
- Hardware: Installation, configuration, and troubleshooting of PCs, mobile devices, and other computing technologies
- Networking: Basic networking concepts and connectivity
- Operating Systems: Installation and support for Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, and Android
- Security: Recognizing and resolving security issues
- Software Troubleshooting: Diagnosing and fixing common software problems
- Operational Procedures: Safety procedures and best practices for technical support
This holistic view prepares candidates to handle the diverse challenges commonly encountered in technical support roles.
Readiness for the Real World
CompTIA A+ is known for emphasizing performance-based questions that simulate real-world IT problems. This ensures that certified professionals don’t just know theoretical concepts but also understand how to apply them. Such an approach helps candidates build practical experience that mirrors the daily responsibilities of IT support technicians.
In many certification exams, rote memorization is sufficient. However, the A+ certification pushes candidates to think critically, use deductive reasoning, and make informed decisions based on dynamic scenarios. This is why A+ holders often feel better equipped when stepping into their first IT job.
Higher Earning Potential
While A+ is an entry-level certification, it can positively impact earning potential. IT professionals who hold A+ often earn more than their uncertified peers in similar positions. Moreover, the certification provides the groundwork for more specialized certifications, each of which can lead to progressively higher salaries and roles.
For example, once you’ve earned your A+ certification, you can pursue CompTIA Network+ or Security+, which may qualify you for network or security analyst positions—roles that typically command higher pay.
Foundation for Career Advancement
The A+ certification is often seen as the starting point in an IT career ladder. Once you’re A+ certified, you’ll have the foundational knowledge needed to specialize in specific areas such as networking, cybersecurity, systems administration, or cloud computing.
Certifications you might pursue after A+ include:
- CompTIA Network+: For network-focused roles
- CompTIA Security+: For entry-level cybersecurity positions
- CompTIA Linux+: For Linux administration
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals: For cloud computing foundations
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA): For advanced networking roles
A+ acts as a stepping stone, providing a base layer of knowledge that supports further learning and skill development.
Low Entry Barriers
Another important benefit of the CompTIA A+ certification is its accessibility. It doesn’t require any prior IT work experience or other certifications. With dedication and study, even someone with a limited technical background can pass the exams and earn the certification.
This accessibility makes A+ especially valuable for career changers or those returning to the workforce. It offers a structured, clearly defined way to gain credibility in a new field without needing to first secure an IT role.
Expands Employment Opportunities
Many job postings in IT list CompTIA A+ as a preferred or required qualification. Typical job titles for A+ certified professionals include:
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Technical Support Analyst
- Desktop Support Technician
- Field Service Technician
The wide applicability of the A+ certification means that candidates can pursue employment in almost any industry, from healthcare and education to finance and manufacturing. Every organization uses IT, and every organization needs someone to maintain it.
Trusted by the U.S. Government and Military
CompTIA A+ is approved by the U.S. Department of Defense to meet directive 8570.01-M requirements. This means that it is accepted for federal and government roles, particularly in the defense and intelligence sectors. For veterans and those interested in government work, this approval offers access to more specialized and often better-compensated positions.
Military-friendly resources such as labs offer veterans training tailored specifically to help them prepare for A+ exams. These resources often align with programs that provide financial support to cover exam and training costs.
Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills
Through preparation and study, A+ candidates develop a systematic approach to diagnosing and resolving problems. This mindset not only helps in technical roles but also enhances logical reasoning and communication skills that are invaluable across any profession.
Many professionals find that the habits built while preparing for the A+ certification—like documenting issues, following checklists, and creating repeatable processes—translate well into their work routines. The result is better efficiency, reliability, and job satisfaction.
Certification Renewal and Lifelong Learning
CompTIA A+ is valid for three years from the date you pass your exam. However, CompTIA offers several Continuing Education (CE) options to renew your certification, such as earning CEUs through webinars, higher-level certifications, or retaking the exam.
This structure encourages certified professionals to continue learning and evolving with the technology landscape. Staying current with industry trends, tools, and security practices ensures ongoing career relevance and resilience.
Learning Resources and Community Support
Preparing for A+ is easier than ever thanks to the vast number of learning resources available. Platforms like labs offer comprehensive preparation materials, including:
- Practice tests that simulate real exam conditions
- Instructional videos
- Flashcards and quick reference guides
- Community forums and discussion groups
The community aspect of studying for A+ should not be overlooked. Forums, subreddits, and local study groups offer motivation, answer questions, and provide encouragement. This shared journey often results in a more enjoyable and enriching learning experience.
CompTIA A+ remains one of the best starting points for anyone seeking to launch a career in IT. From its wide industry recognition and practical focus to its ability to serve as a stepping stone into more specialized fields, the benefits of A+ are both immediate and long-term.
It offers low barriers to entry, significant career mobility, and a solid return on investment. Whether you’re just starting your IT journey or looking for a structured way to validate your skills and get that first job, CompTIA A+ delivers the knowledge, credibility, and confidence you need to succeed in the ever-evolving tech landscape.
How to Prepare for the A+ Exams
Preparation for A+ requires both theory and practical skills. Recommended resources include textbooks, video courses, practice exams, and hands-on labs.
labs is a valuable platform for A+ candidates, offering:
- Comprehensive video tutorials
- Exam simulations
- Lab environments to practice real scenarios
- Downloadable study guides and quizzes
Students are encouraged to set up their test labs using virtual machines or spare hardware to get hands-on experience with operating systems, networking tools, and troubleshooting techniques.
Recommended Study Timeline
- 8–12 weeks of study (1–2 hours/day)
- Focus 4–6 weeks on Core 1 and 4–6 weeks on Core 2
- Take at least 3 full-length practice exams per section.
- Simulate real-world troubleshooting scenarios.s
Career Paths After CompTIA A+
Achieving the A+ certification qualifies you for a variety of entry-level roles in IT:
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Desktop Support Administrator
- Field Service Technician
- Technical Support Analyst
After A+, many professionals choose to specialize further. Recommended next certifications include:
- CompTIA Network+: For a focus on networking and infrastructure
- CompTIA Security+: For those moving toward cybersecurity
- CompTIA Linux+: To work more deeply with Linux systems
You can also move toward cloud computing, systems administration, or cybersecurity, depending on your interests and career goals.
CompTIA A+ is an essential certification for anyone serious about beginning a career in IT. With its broad coverage, practical approach, and recognition by employers worldwide, A+ equips candidates with the skills and confidence needed to tackle real-world technical challenges. Whether you’re installing your first operating system or diagnosing your first network issue, the A+ lays the groundwork for long-term success in the tech industry.
Cisco Certified Technician (CCT)
Introduction to Cisco Certified Technician (CCT)
The Cisco Certified Technician (CCT) certification is an excellent entry point into the world of networking and Cisco technologies. It is designed for technicians who work onsite to support and maintain Cisco networking devices and systems. The CCT is a practical, hands-on certification that validates the ability to diagnose, restore, repair, and replace critical Cisco systems and networking devices at customer sites.
Cisco offers two main CCT paths:
- CCT Routing & Switching (exam code: 100-490 RSTECH)
- CCT Data Center (exam code: 010-151 DCTECH)
This part will focus on CCT Routing & Switching, the more general and widely applicable track.
Who Should Consider the CCT
The CCT is perfect for:
- Entry-level IT professionals and field technicians
- Career switchers interested in networking
- Help desk technicians are looking to move into more hardware-focused roles.
- Anyone starting with Cisco infrastructure.
Exam Overview (CCT Routing & Switching)
- Exam code: 100-490 RSTECH
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Number of questions: 55–65
- Format: Multiple choice and drag-and-drop
- Passing score: Varies (set by Cisco, not publicly disclosed)
- Cost: Approximately USD 125
Key Concepts Covered
Networking Fundamentals
- TCP/IP and OSI models
- IPv4 and IPv6 addressing and routing
- Basic network protocols (DHCP, DNS, FTP, etc.)
Cisco Device Basics
- Identifying Cisco devices and interfaces
- Using Cisco IOS software
- Performing basic configuration and verification commands
Troubleshooting and Diagnostics
- Tools like ping, traceroute, and show commands.
- Cabling and hardware troubleshooting
- Interpreting LEDs and console output
Cisco Tools and Resources
- Using Cisco’s online support tools and documentation
- Navigating and using the Cisco CLI
- Understanding licensing and SMARTnet
Benefits of CCT
- Provides hands-on hardware skills
- Focuses on practical, real-world problem solving
- Prepares candidates for field support and technician jobs
- First step toward more advanced Cisco certifications (like CCNA)
How to Prepare for the Exam
Preparation options include instructor-led training, virtual labs, and self-study guides. Cisco’s official training course for this exam is Supporting Cisco Routing and Switching Network Devices (RSTECH).
labs and other platforms offer:
- Interactive practice questions
- Video tutorials and CLI demonstrations
- Realistic labs and simulation environments
Recommended Study Timeline
- 4–6 weeks (1–2 hours/day)
- Spend time practicing CLI commands in lab environments.
- Watch hardware teardown and repair videos for visual familiarity.
Career Paths After CCT
CCT certification prepares candidates for entry-level technical jobs such as:
- Field service technician
- IT support technician
- Network hardware specialist
It also sets the stage for further study and certifications, especially:
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
- Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate
Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals
Introduction to Azure and Cloud Fundamentals
Cloud computing is at the heart of today’s IT landscape. Microsoft Azure is one of the leading cloud service providers, and the Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) certification offers a beginner-friendly path into this booming area.
The certification validates foundational knowledge of cloud concepts, Azure services, pricing, governance, and compliance. It’s ideal for individuals new to cloud computing or professionals in non-technical roles who work with cloud-based solutions.
Cloud computing has transformed the way modern businesses operate, enabling organizations to scale quickly, manage costs effectively, and innovate at an unprecedented pace. At the forefront of this transformation is Microsoft Azure, a powerful and widely adopted cloud computing platform offering an expansive suite of services including virtual machines, databases, storage, artificial intelligence, and more. For newcomers to the IT field, gaining a foundational understanding of Azure and the broader concept of cloud computing can be a crucial first step toward building a career in one of the fastest-growing sectors in technology.
Azure Fundamentals is an entry-level certification provided by Microsoft that introduces candidates to basic cloud concepts and Azure services. This certification, officially titled Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals, is designed for individuals with no technical background or experience. It is ideal for students, professionals transitioning into IT, and those working in technical-adjacent roles such as sales, finance, or project management who need to understand how cloud technologies support business operations.
The Azure Fundamentals certification (exam code: AZ-900) validates a candidate’s understanding of core cloud principles such as public, private, and hybrid cloud models; benefits of cloud computing like elasticity, high availability, and cost efficiency; and critical concepts related to security, compliance, and pricing. Importantly, the exam also covers the basics of deploying and managing Azure resources through the Azure Portal, Command Line Interface (CLI), and Azure Resource Manager (ARM) templates.
One of the main advantages of the Azure Fundamentals certification is its accessibility. Unlike more advanced Azure certifications, it requires no prior IT experience or programming knowledge. The exam is straightforward, with around 40 to 60 multiple-choice questions and a time limit of 85 minutes. Because of this, many candidates can prepare and pass the exam with just a few weeks of study, especially when using platforms like labs, which offer video courses, practice questions, and mock exams tailored to AZ-900.
Understanding Azure is particularly useful because Microsoft’s cloud services are deeply integrated into many business environments through products like Microsoft 365, SharePoint, Teams, and Dynamics 365. As a result, even roles not traditionally associated with cloud administration can benefit from Azure knowledge. For instance, data analysts, cybersecurity professionals, and developers increasingly work in cloud-based ecosystems, and familiarity with Azure concepts improves collaboration, decision-making, and strategic planning.
Upon earning the Azure Fundamentals certification, candidates can explore more specialized certifications that align with specific career paths. These include:
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate (for system and cloud administrators)
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate (for cloud application developers)
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate (for cloud security professionals)
- Microsoft Certified: Data Analyst Associate (for data-focused roles)
Who Should Consider Azure Fundamentals
Azure Fundamentals is designed for:
- Beginners curious about cloud computing
- Business or sales professionals working with Azure.
- Technical staff exploring Microsoft cloud services
- Students or job seekers entering the cloud space.
Exam Overview
- Exam code: AZ-900
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Number of questions: 40–60
- Format: Multiple choice, drag-and-drop, and case studies
- Passing score: 700 (out of 1000)
- Cost: Approximately USD 99
Key Concepts Covered
Cloud Concepts
- Benefits and considerations of using cloud services
- Types of cloud computing: IaaS, PaaS, SaaS
- Public, private, and hybrid cloud models
Core Azure Services
- Azure compute, storage, and networking.
- Virtual machines, App Services, and Containers
- Azure Regions and Resource Groups
Azure Pricing and Support
- Pricing calculators and service-level agreements (SLAs)
- Azure cost management tools
- Support plans and service lifecycle
Governance, Compliance, and Security
- Azure Identity and Access Management (IAM)
- Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)
- Microsoft privacy and compliance terms
Benefits of Azure Fundamentals
- Widely recognized in the industry.y
- Low-cost entry to cloud certifications
- No technical background required
- Builds the foundation for advanced certifications like Azure Administrator (AZ-104) or Azure Solutions Architect (AZ-305)
How to Prepare for the Exam
Microsoft Learn offers free, interactive learning paths tailored to AZ-900. Other popular platforms like labs provide:
- Practice exams
- Video tutorials
- Flashcards and study notes
- Hands-on labs using Azure sandbox environments
Recommended Study Timeline
- 2–3 weeks (1–2 hours/day)
- Complete the Microsoft Learn modules first.
- Follow up with practice exams and flashcards.s
Career Paths After Azure Fundamentals
While the AZ-900 certification itself is not designed for technical job roles, it provides a gateway to roles such as:
- Cloud sales specialist
- Technical account manager
- Junior cloud support associate
- Cloud engineer (after further study)
Next steps include:
- AZ-104 (Azure Administrator)
- AZ-500 (Azure Security Engineer)
- Microsoft Certified: Power Platform Fundamentals
Conclusion
The Microsoft Azure Fundamentals certification is a perfect introduction to cloud computing for those without a technical background. It helps demystify the cloud, supports informed decision-making, and provides a solid foundation for future specialization. As cloud adoption continues to rise, AZ-900 remains a relevant and valuable credential for a wide range of professionals.
