Which azure certification should a beginner take?

To begin with, in cloud technology, one needs to have a basic knowledge of network topologies, devices, firewalls, and virtualization. Once you attain some kind of knowledge on the above domains, then you may seek for the domains that you have an interest in.

This background knowledge and minimum experience with hands-on networking or development or administrator technology will enable you to understand the Cloud Computing concepts and models easily when you opt for further learning into Azure.

Previously, there were simple paths – MCSA (Microsoft Certified Solution Associate), after completing MTA – (Microsoft Technology Associate). And then there were two exams, either you can go for “70–532: Developing Microsoft Azure Solutions” or “70–533: Implementing Microsoft Azure Infrastructure Solutions”. So, once you pass the exam you attain the MCSA credential.

However, things have changed now, with the launch of new Azure role-based certification. Each of the main 3 domains i.e – Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert, Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate and Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate, require role-specific skills and knowledge.

1. While, for Azure solutions architect expert you require proficiency in Azure administration, development, and expert-level skills, For
2. Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate credentials you need – proficiency in using PowerShell, Azure Portal, ARM templates, operating systems, virtualization, cloud infrastructure, storage structures, and networking.
3. And for Azure Developer Associate certification, you require to have proficiency in developing apps & services by using Azure tools and technologies, including storage, security, computer, and communications and Ideally, a candidate must have at least 1-year of software development experience and skilled in at least one cloud-supported programing language.

There are more roles and exams that are going to be launched soon in the first quarter of 2019. Stay tuned for that.

Alternatively, for those who already have attained the previous exams they can simply give the transition exams and attain the newly launched skills and prove their mettle in this swiftly evolving Microsoft Azure playground.