Briefly explain what Microsoft Azure certifications are and their purpose.

Microsoft Azure certifications validate an individual’s skills and knowledge in designing, implementing, and managing Microsoft Azure cloud solutions.

These certifications are designed to help professionals demonstrate their proficiency in various aspects of Azure, including:

• Cloud architecture
• Data management
• Networking
• Security
• Artificial intelligence

Earning Microsoft Azure certifications can provide several benefits, such as:

• Validating your skills and knowledge to potential employers
• Demonstrating your commitment to professional development
• Advancing your career and earning higher salaries
• Staying up-to-date with the latest Azure technologies and best practices

Microsoft Azure certifications are available at various levels, from foundational to expert, allowing you to demonstrate your skills and knowledge at the appropriate level for your career.

Introduce the DP-900 and AZ-900 certifications and their target audience.

The DP-900 (Azure Data Fundamentals) and AZ-900 (Azure Fundamentals) certifications are entry-level certifications designed to provide a foundational understanding of Microsoft Azure cloud services and concepts.

This certification is ideal for individuals who are new to working with data in the cloud or who want to learn more about Azure data services. It covers topics such as:

• CoreAzure data services
• Data storage and processing options
• Data security and compliance
• Data analytics and visualisation

AZ-900: Azure Fundamentals

This certification is suitable for anyone who is new to Azure or who wants to validate their foundational knowledge of cloud concepts. It covers topics such as:

• Cloud computing concepts
• Azure services and their use cases
• Azure pricing and support
• Security, privacy, and compliance in Azure

Both the DP-900 and AZ-900 certifications are vendor-neutral and open to individuals with little to no prior experience with Azure. They are a great starting point for anyone looking to build a career in cloud computing or who wants to learn more about Microsoft Azure.

II. Key Differences

While the DP-900 and AZ-900 certifications are both entry-level Azure certifications, they have some key differences:

• Focus: The DP-900 certification focuses specifically on data-related services and concepts in Azure, while the AZ-900 certification covers a broader range of Azure services and concepts, including data, compute, networking, and storage.
• Target audience: The DP-900 certification is designed for individuals who are new to working with data in the cloud or who want to learn more about Azure data services. The AZ-900 certification is suitable for anyone who is new to Azure or who wants to validate their foundational knowledge of cloud concepts.
• Prerequisites: There are no prerequisites for the DP-900 or AZ-900 certifications. However, it is recommended that candidates have some basic understanding of IT concepts and terminology.
• Exam format: Both the DP-900 and AZ-900exams are delivered online and consist of 50 multiple-choice questions. Candidates have 60 minutes to complete each exam.

Ultimately, the best certification for you depends on your individual career goals and interests. If you are interested in working with data in the cloud, the DP-900 certification is a good option. If you are new to Azure and want a broader understanding of cloud concepts, the AZ-900 certification is a good choice.

Focus:

The DP-900 certification focuses specifically on data-related services and concepts in Azure, while the AZ-900 certification covers a broader range of Azure services and concepts.

DP-900: Azure Data Fundamentals

This certification covers topics such as:

• Core Azure data services, including Azure Storage, Azure SQL Database, and Azure Cosmos DB
• Data storage and processing options, such as relational databases, NoSQL databases, and big data analytics
• Data security and compliance, including encryption, access control, and data governance
• Data analytics and visualization, using tools such as Azure Data Explorer and Power BI

AZ-900: Azure Fundamentals

This certification covers a broader range of Azure services and concepts, including:

• Cloud computing concepts, such as infrastructure as a service (IaaS), platform as a service (PaaS), and software as a service (SaaS)
• Azure services and their use cases, including compute, storage, networking, and security
• Azure pricing and support
• Security, privacy, and compliance in Azure

Ultimately, the best certification for you depends on your individual career goals and interests. If you are interested in working with data in the cloud, the DP-900 certification is a good option. If you are new to Azure and want a broader understanding of cloud concepts, the AZ-900 certification is a good choice.

=> Click to Place Your Order at the Best Available Price ✅

DP-900: Azure data concepts and services (data-centric roles)

This section of the DP-900 exam covers the following topics:

• Core Azure data services:
  • Azure Storage
  • Azure SQL Database
  • Azure Cosmos DB
• Data storage processing options:
  • Relational databases
  • NoSQL databases
  • Big data analytics
• Data security and compliance:
  • Encryption
  • Access control
  • Data governance
• Data analytics and visualization:
  • Azure Data Explorer
• • Power BI
  These topics are essential for individuals who work with data in the cloud, such as data analysts, data engineers, and database administrators. The exam questions in this section will test your understanding of these concepts and your ability to apply them to real-world scenarios.
• AZ-900: Broader overview of Azure services (various cloud roles)
• This section of the AZ-900 exam covers the following topics:
  • Cloud computing concepts:
    • Infrastructure as a service (IaaS)Platform as a service (PaaS)Software as a service (SaaS)
    Azure services and their use cases:
    • ComputeStorageNetworkingSecurityAzure pricing and support Security, privacy, and compliance in AzureThese topics are essential for individuals who work with Azure, regardless of their specific role. The exam questions in this section will test your understanding of these concepts and your ability to apply them to real-world scenarios.
• • The AZ-900 certification is a good choice for individuals who are new to Azure and want to gain a broad understanding of the platform. It is also a good choice for individuals who work in non-technical roles and need to have a basic understanding of Azure.
• • Technical Knowledge: Both the DP-900 and AZ-900 certifications require candidates to have some basic technical knowledge.

Candidates who have worked with Azure or other cloud platforms will have an advantage in preparing for these certifications. However, it is not necessary to have extensive experience with Azure to pass the exams.

There are a variety of resources available to help candidates prepare for the DP-900 and AZ-900 exams, including:

• Microsoft Learn modules
• Azure documentation
• Online courses
• Practice exams

Candidates should allow themselves plenty of time to prepare for the exams and should use a variety of resources to ensure that they are well-prepared.

DP-900: Requires some understanding of data concepts and data services.

Requires some understanding of data concepts and data services. The DP-900 certification is designed for individuals who are new to working with data in the cloud or who want to learn more about Azure data services. Candidates should have a basic understanding of data concepts, such as:

• Data types
• Data structures
• Data storage and processing
• Data security

Candidates should also be familiar with some of the most common Azure data services, such as:

• Azure Storage
• Azure SQL Database
• Azure Cosmos DB
• Azure Data Factory
• Azure Data Lake

Candidates who have worked with data in a non-cloud environment will have an advantage in preparing for the DP-900 exam. However, it is not necessary to have extensive experience with Azure data services to pass the exam.

There are a variety of resources available to help candidates prepare for the DP-900 exam, including:

• Microsoft Learn modules
• Azure documentation
• Online courses
• Practice exams

Candidates should allow themselves plenty of time to prepare for the exam and should use a variety of resources to ensure that they are well-prepared.

=> Click to Place Your Order at the Best Available Price ✅

AZ-900: Less technical knowledge required.

The AZ-900 certification is designed for individuals who are new to Azure or who want to validate their foundational knowledge of cloud concepts. Candidates do not need to have any prior experience with Azure or cloud computing to pass the exam.

The AZ-900 exam covers a broad range of Azure services and concepts, including:

• Cloud computing concepts
• Azure services and their use cases
• Azure pricing and support
• Security, privacy, and compliance in Azure

Candidates should have a basic understanding of these concepts before taking the exam. However, they do not need to have any deep technical knowledge or experience.

There are a variety of resources available to help candidates prepare for the AZ-900 exam, including:

• Microsoft Learn modules
• Azure documentation
• Online courses
• Practice exams

Candidates should allow themselves plenty of time to prepare for the exam and should use a variety of resources to ensure that they are well-prepared.

Exam Content:

The DP -900 and AZ-900 exams both consist of 50 multiple-choice questions. The questions are designed to test your knowledge of the exam content, which is outlined in the Microsoft Exam Skills Outline (ESO).

The DP-900 ESO covers the following topics:

• Core Azure data services
• Data storage and processing options
• Data security and compliance
• Data analytics and visualisation

The AZ-900 ESO covers the following topics:

• Cloud computing concepts
• Azure services and their use cases
• Azure pricing and support
• Security, privacy, and compliance in Azure

Candidates should carefully review the ESO for each exam to ensure that they are familiar with all of the topics that will be covered. The DP-900 and AZ-900 exams are both timed exams. Candidates have 60 minutes to complete each exam. To pass the DP-900 or AZ-900 exam, candidates must score at least 700 out of 1000 points.

DP-900: Core data concepts, relational & non-relational data services, analytics, data integration.

Core data concepts, relational & non-relational data services, analytics, data integration.

The DP-900 exam covers a wide range of data -related topics, including:

• Core data concepts: This section covers the fundamental concepts of data, including data types, data structures, and data storage.
• Relational & non-relational data services: This section covers the different types ofdata services available in Azure, including relational databases, NoSQL databases, and big data services.

• Analytics: This section covers the different ways to analyse data in Azure, including using Azure Data Explorer and Power BI.
• Data integration: This section covers the different ways to integrate data from different sources into Azure, including using Azure Data Factory and Azure Synapse Analytics.

Candidates who pass the DP-900 exam will have a solid understanding of the core concepts of data management in Azure. This knowledge will be valuable for individuals who work with data in any capacity, including data analysts, data engineers, and database administrators.

AZ-900: Cloud computing principles, core Azure services (all domains), security, compliance, pricing.

Cloud computing principles, core Azure services (all domains), security, compliance, pricing.

The AZ-900 exam covers a broad range of Azure-related topics, including:

• Cloud computing principles: This section covers the fundamental concepts of cloud computing, including the different types of cloud services and the benefits of using the cloud.
• Core Azure services (all domains): This section covers the different types of Azure services available, including compute, storage, networking, and security services.
• Security: This section covers the different security features and best practices available in Azure, including identity and access management, data protection, and threat protection.
• Compliance: This section covers the different compliance offerings available in Azure, including certifications, attestations, and regulations.
• Pricing: This section covers the different pricing models available in Azure, including pay-as-you-go, subscription, and consumption-based pricing.

Candidates who pass the AZ-900 exam will have a solid understanding of the core concepts of Azure. This knowledge will be valuable for individuals who work with Azure in any capacity, including cloud architects, cloud engineers, and cloud administrators.

III. Similarities

III. Similarities Despite their differences, the DP-900 and AZ-900 certifications have some key similarities:

• Both certifications are entry-level: The DP-900 and AZ-900 certifications are both designed for individuals who are new to Azure or who want to validate their foundational knowledge of cloud concepts.
• Both certifications are vendor-neutral: The DP-900 and AZ-900 certifications are not specific to any particular vendor or technology. This makes them valuable for individuals who want to learn about Azure without committing to a specific vendor.
• Both certifications are offered online: The DP-900 and AZ-900 exams are both offered online, making them convenient for candidates to take at their own pace.
• Both certifications are available in multiple languages: The DP-900 and AZ-900 exams are both available in multiple languages, making them accessible to candidates around the world.

These similarities make the DP-900 and AZ-900 certifications a great option for individuals who are interested in learning more about Azure and cloud computing.

Target Audience: Both cater to beginners in cloud computing or Azure.

Both cater to beginners in cloud computing or Azure.

The DP-900 and AZ-900 certifications are both designed for individuals who are new to cloud computing or Azure. This includes individuals who are:

• Just starting their career in cloud computing
• Moving from a non-cloud role to a cloud role
• Interested in learning more about Azure
• Preparing for more advanced Azure certifications

Both certifications provide a solid foundation in cloud computing concepts and Azure services. This makes them a valuable starting point for anyone who is interested in pursuing a career in cloud computing.

However, there are some key differences between the two certifications. The DP-900 certification focuses specifically on data-related services and concepts in Azure, while the AZ-900 certification covers a broader range of Azure services and concepts.

As a result, the DP-900 certification is a good choice for individuals who are interested in working with data in the cloud. The AZ-900 certification is a good choice for individuals who want a more general understanding of Azure.

Benefits: Both certifications validate a basic understanding of Azure and enhance career prospects.

Both certifications validate a basic understanding of Azure and enhance career prospects.

Earning the DP-900 or AZ-900 certification can provide several benefits, including.

• Validation of skills and knowledge: Both certifications validate your basic understanding of Azure and its services. This can be helpful for employers who are looking to hire individuals with cloud computing skills.
• Enhanced career prospects: Earning a DP-900 or AZ-900 certification can help you advance your career in cloud computing. Many employers prefer to hire candidates who have demonstrated their commitment to professional development by earning certifications.
• Increased earning potential: Individuals with Azure certifications can earn higher salaries than those without certifications. According to a study by Global Knowledge, individuals with Azure certifications earn an average of 12% more than those without certifications.

In addition to these benefits, earning a DP-900 or AZ-900 certification can also help you:

• Prepare for more advanced Azure certifications
• Gain a competitive edge in the job market

If you are interested in pursuing a career in cloud computing, earning a DP-900 or AZ-900 certification is a great place to start.

Exam Format: Both likely have similar multiple-choice question format.

Exam Format: Both likely have similar multiple-choice question format.

Both the DP-900 and AZ-900 exams are delivered online and consist of 50 multiple-choice questions. Candidates have 60 minutes to complete each exam.

The questions on both exams are designed to test your knowledge of the exam content, which is outlined in the Microsoft Exam Skills Outline (ESO) for each exam.

The DP-900 ESO covers the following topics:

• Core Azure data services
• Data storage and processing options
• Data security and compliance
• Data analytics and visualisation

The AZ-900 ESO covers the following topics:

• Cloud computing concepts
• Azure services and their use cases
• Azure pricing and support
• Security, privacy, and compliancein Azure

Candidates should carefully review the ESO for each exam to ensure that they are familiar with all of the topics that will be covered. To pass the DP-900 or AZ-900 exam, candidates must score at least 700 out of 1000 points.

IV. Choosing the Right Certification

The best way to choose the right certification for you is to consider your career goals and interests. If you are interested in working with data in the cloud, the DP-900 certification is a good choice. This certification will give you a solid foundation in Azure data services and concepts.

If you are interested in a more general understanding of Azure, the AZ-900 certification is a good choice. This certification will give you a broad overview of Azure services and concepts.

Both certifications are a great starting point for anyone who is interested in pursuing a career in cloud computing. However, the DP-900 certification is a better choice for individuals who are interested in working with data in the cloud, while the AZ-900 certification is a better choice for individuals who want a more general understanding of Azure.

Ultimately, the best way to choose the right certification for you is to research both certifications and decide which one is the best fit for your career goals and interests.

Consider your experience:

Your experience level can also help you choose the right certification. The DP-900 certification is a good choice for individuals who are new to cloud computing or who have limited experience with Azure data services.

The AZ-900 certification is a good choice for individuals who have some experience with cloud computing or Azure, but who want to validate their foundational knowledge.

If you have extensive experience with Azure data services, you may want to consider pursuing a more advanced Azure certification, such as the Azure Data Engineer Associate certification.

Ultimately, the best way to choose the right certification for you is to consider your experience level, career goals, and interests.

Prior cloud/data experience? Start with AZ-900 for a broader foundation.

Prior cloud/data experience? Start with AZ-900 for a broader foundation.

If you have prior experience with cloud computing or data, you may want to start with the AZ-900 certification. This certification will give you a broader foundation in Azure and cloud computing concepts.

The AZ-900 certification covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Cloud computing concepts
• Azure services and their use cases
• Azure pricing and support
• Security, privacy, and compliance in Azure

This broad foundation will be helpful for you as you pursue more advanced Azure certifications.

Once you have earned the AZ-900 certification, you can then decide if you want to pursue the DP-900 certification. The DP-900 certification will give you a deeper understanding of Azure data services and concepts.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which certification to start with is to consider your experience level, career goals, and interests.

Existing data background? DP-900 might be a better fit.

Existing data background? DP-900 might be a better fit.

If you have an existing background in data, the DP-900 certification might be a better fit for you. This certification will allow you to build on your existing knowledge and gain a deeper understanding of Azure data services and concepts.

The DP-900 certification covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Core Azure data services
• Data storage and processing options
• Data security and compliance
• Data analytics and visualisation

This knowledge will be valuable for you if you are interested in working with data in the cloud.

Once you have earned the DP-900 certification, you can then decide if you want to pursue the AZ-900 certification. The AZ-900 certification will give you a broader foundation in Azure and cloud computing concepts.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which certification to start with is to consider your experience level, career goals, and interests.

Career Goals:

Your career goals can also help you choose the right certification. If you are interested in a career in data engineering or data analysis, the DP-900 certification is a good choice. This certification will give you a solid foundation in Azure data services and concepts.

If you are interested in a more general career in cloud computing, the AZ-900 certification is a good choice. This certification will give you a broad overview of Azure services and concepts.

Both certifications are a great starting point for anyone who is interested in pursuing a career in cloud computing. However, the DP-900 certification is a better choice for individuals who are interested in working with data in the cloud, while the AZ-900 certification is a better choice for individuals who want a more general understanding of Azure.

Ultimately, the best way to choose the right certification for you is to consider your experience level, career goals, and interests.

Data-centric roles (data analyst, data engineer)? Pursue DP-900.

Data-centric roles (data analyst, data engineer)? Pursue DP-900. If you are interested in a data-centric role, such as a data analyst or data engineer, the DP-900 certification is a good choice. This certification will give you a solid foundation in Azure data services and concepts.

The DP-900 certification covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Core Azure data services
• Data storage and processing options
• Data security and compliance
• Data analytics and visual lisation

This knowledge will be valuable for you if you are interested in working with data in the cloud. Once you have earned the DP-900 certification, you can then decide if you want to pursue the AZ-900 certification. The AZ-900 certification will give you a broader foundation in Azure and cloud computing concepts. Ultimately, the best way to decide which certification to start with is to consider your experience level, career goals, and interests.

Broader cloud roles (cloud admin, architect)? Target AZ-900 first.

Broader cloud roles (cloud admin, architect)? Target AZ-900 first.

If you are interested in a broader cloud role, such as a cloud administrator or cloud architect, the AZ-900 certification is a good place to start. This certification will give you a broad overview of Azure services and concepts.

The AZ-900 certification covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Cloud computing concepts
• Azure services and their use cases
• Azure pricing and support
• Security, privacy, and compliance in Azure

This knowledge will be valuable for you if you are interested in working with Azure in a more general capacity. Once you have earned the AZ-900 certification, you can then decide if you want to pursue the DP-900 certification. The DP-900 certification will give you a deeper understanding of Azure data services and concepts. Ultimately, the best way to decide which certification to start with is to consider your experience level, career goals, and interests.

V. Conclusion

The DP-900 and AZ-900 certifications are both valuable certifications for individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in cloud computing. The DP-900 certification is a good choice for individuals who are interested in working with data in the cloud, while the AZ-900 certification is a good choice for individuals who want a more general understanding of Azure.

Ultimately, the best way to choose the right certification for you is to consider your experience level, career goals, and interests. Both certifications are a great starting point for anyone who is interested in learning more about Azure and cloud computing.