The AZ-900: Microsoft Azure Fundamentals exam is the first step in beginning your cloud journey with Microsoft Azure. Whether you’re from a technical or non-technical background, this exam tests your knowledge of basic cloud concepts, core Azure services, and pricing and support options. In this blog, we’ll break down the core cloud concepts that are essential to understanding before you sit for the AZ-900 exam.
1. What is Cloud Computing?
Cloud computing is the delivery of computing services—including servers, storage, databases, networking, software, analytics, and intelligence—over the internet (the cloud). It offers faster innovation, flexible resources, and economies of scale.
2. Benefits of Cloud Computing
- Cost efficiency: Pay-as-you-go pricing eliminates the need for heavy upfront capital.
- Scalability: Automatically scale resources based on demand.
- High availability: Global data centers ensure minimal downtime.
- Security: Built-in security features and compliance tools.
- Flexibility: Access services from anywhere with an internet connection.
3. Types of Cloud Deployment Models
- Public Cloud: Services are offered over the internet by a third-party provider (e.g., Microsoft Azure).
- Private Cloud: Cloud infrastructure operated exclusively for a single organization.
- Hybrid Cloud: Combines public and private cloud environments, allowing data and apps to be shared.
4. Types of Cloud Service Models
- IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service): Offers virtualized computing resources (e.g., Azure Virtual Machines).
- PaaS (Platform as a Service): Provides a platform to develop and deploy applications (e.g., Azure App Services).
- SaaS (Software as a Service): Delivers software applications over the internet (e.g., Microsoft 365).
5. Shared Responsibility Model
Cloud providers and customers share responsibility for cloud security. For example:
- Azure (provider): Secures the infrastructure.
- You (customer): Manage data, identity, and access controls.
6. Azure Regions and Availability Zones
Azure is available in global regions. Each region may contain availability zones, which are physically separate locations to enhance redundancy and ensure uptime.
7. Exam Tips for AZ-900
- Understand basic cloud concepts thoroughly.
- Familiarize yourself with Azure pricing, SLAs, and support plans.
- Take practice exams and review Microsoft Learn documentation.
FAQs: Understanding Core Cloud Concepts for AZ-900
Q1: Do I need a technical background to pass AZ-900?
No, AZ-900 is designed for both technical and non-technical individuals. A basic understanding of cloud concepts is sufficient.
Q2: What are the most important cloud service models to learn for the exam?
You should focus on understanding IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS—know their definitions, benefits, and examples.
Q3: What’s the difference between public, private, and hybrid clouds?
- Public Cloud: Shared services over the internet.
- Private Cloud: Exclusive use by a single organization.
- Hybrid Cloud: Combination of both for flexibility.
Q4: How long does it take to prepare for the AZ-900 exam?
Most candidates can prepare within 1–2 weeks with consistent study using Microsoft Learn, tutorials, and practice tests.
Q5: Is AZ-900 a prerequisite for other Azure certifications?
No, but it’s a great starting point before moving on to associate or expert-level certifications like AZ-104 or AZ-204.