Training plan
Microsoft Azure Administrator (AZ-104T00)
Module 1: Prerequisites for Azure administrators
- Manage services with the Azure portal
- Introduction to Azure Cloud Shell
- Introduction to Bash
- Introduction to PowerShell
- Deploy Azure infrastructure by using JSON ARM templates
Module 2: Manage identities and governance in Azure
- Understand Microsoft Entra ID
- Create, configure, and manage identities
- Describe the core architectural components of Azure
- Azure Policy initiatives
- Secure your Azure resources with Azure role-based access control (Azure RBAC)
- Allow users to reset their password with Microsoft Entra self-service password reset
Module 3: Configure and manage virtual networks for Azure administrators
- Configure virtual networks
- Configure network security groups
- Host your domain on Azure DNS
- Configure Azure Virtual Network peering
- Manage and control traffic flow in your Azure deployment with routes
- Introduction to Azure Load Balancer
- Introduction to Azure Application Gateway
- Introduction to Azure Network Watcher
Module 4: Implement and manage storage in Azure
- Configure storage accounts
- Configure Azure Blob Storage
- Configure Azure Storage security
- Configure Azure Files
Module 5: Deploy and manage Azure compute resources
- Introduction to Azure virtual machines
- Configure virtual machine availability
- Configure Azure App Service plans
- Configure Azure App Service
- Configure Azure Container Instances
Module 6: Monitor and back up Azure resources
- Introduction to Azure Backup
- Protect your virtual machines by using Azure Backup
- Introduction to Azure Monitor
- Improve incident response with Azure Monitor alerts
Designing Microsoft Azure Infrastructure Solutions (AZ-305T00)
Module 1: Microsoft Azure Architect Design Prerequisites
- Describe the core architectural components of Azure
- Describe Azure compute and networking services
- Describe Azure storage services
- Describe Azure identity, access, and security
- Introduction to the Microsoft Cloud Adoption Framework
- Introduction to the Microsoft Azure Well-Architected Framework
Module 2: Design identity, governance, and monitor solutions
- Design governance
- Design authentication and authorization solutions
- Design a solution to log and monitor Azure resources
Module 3: Design business continuity solutions
- Describe high availability and disaster recovery strategies
- Design a solution for backup and disaster recovery
Module 4: Design data storage solutions
- Design a data storage solution for non-relational data
- Design a data storage solution for relational data
- Design data integration
Module 5: Design infrastructure solutions
- Design an Azure compute solution
- Design an application architecture
- Design network solutions
- Design migrations
Module 6: Build great solutions with the Microsoft Azure Well-Architected Framework
- Introduction to the Microsoft Azure Well-Architected Framework
- Microsoft Azure Well-Architected Framework – Cost Optimization
- Microsoft Azure Well-Architected Framework – Operational excellence
- Microsoft Azure Well-Architected Framework – Performance efficiency
- Microsoft Azure Well-Architected Framework – Reliability
- Microsoft Azure Well-Architected Framework – Security
Module 7: Accelerate cloud adoption with the Microsoft Cloud Adoption Framework for Azure
- Develop a cloud adoption strategy by using the Cloud Adoption Framework
- Choose the best Azure landing zone to support your requirements for cloud operations
- Use the Cloud Adoption Framework Migrate methodology to migrate your workload to the cloud
- Address tangible risks with the Govern methodology of the Cloud Adoption Framework for Azure
- Ensure stable operations and optimization across all supported workloads deployed to the cloud
- Innovate applications by using Azure cloud technologies
- Strengthen cloud security by using the Cloud Adoption Framework
AZ-104 course preview
Recommended prerequisite knowledge
Before attending this course, students must have previous experience deploying or administering Azure resources and conceptual knowledge of:
- Azure Active Directory
- Azure compute technologies such as VMs, containers and serverless solutions
- Azure virtual networking to include load balancers
- Azure Storage technologies (unstructured and databases)
- General application design concepts such as messaging and high availability
Credentials and certification
Exams features
- Codes: AZ-104 and AZ-305
- Titles: Microsoft Azure Administrator and Designing Microsoft Azure Infrastructure Solutions
- Duration: 150 minutes for AZ-104 and 120 minutes for AZ-305
- Number of Questions: 40 to 60
- Question Format: Multiple choice, multiple response, scenario-based
- Passing Score: 700 out of 1000
- Cost: $0 (included in your training)
Exams topics
- Manage Azure identities and governance
- Implement and manage storage
- Deploy and manage Azure compute resources
- Implement and manage virtual networking
- Monitor and maintain Azure resources
- Design identity, governance, and monitoring solutions
- Design data storage solutions
- Design business continuity solutions
- Design infrastructure solutions
Eccentrix Corner Articles: Azure Solutions Architect Expert AZ-104-305 Resources
Explore our technical articles on Azure Solutions Architect Expert AZ-104-305 published on Eccentrix Corner. These resources dive deeper into key concepts, share best practices, and provide practical guides to maximize your learning and certification success. Our experts share real-world insights to help you master solutions architecture on Microsoft Azure.
Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-104 + AZ-305) Training Bundle
The Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-104 + AZ-305) training bundle combines two key courses to prepare professionals for the prestigious Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification. This bundle includes AZ-104: Microsoft Azure Administrator and AZ-305: Designing Microsoft Azure Infrastructure Solutions, providing participants with comprehensive skills to design, implement, and manage advanced Azure solutions.
Ideal for experienced IT professionals, this training equips participants to pass the certification exams and demonstrate their expertise in designing and implementing complex cloud solutions.
Why Choose the Azure Solutions Architect Expert Training Bundle?
The demand for Azure solutions architects continues to grow as businesses migrate to cloud-first strategies. This bundle delivers the knowledge and hands-on experience required to address enterprise-level challenges, from managing Azure infrastructure to designing scalable and secure solutions. By earning the Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification, you validate your ability to deliver innovative cloud solutions aligned with business objectives.
This bundle combines foundational Azure administration with advanced solution design, ensuring you are fully prepared for both the AZ-104 and AZ-305 exams.
Key Skills Developed in the Training
Manage Azure Subscriptions and Resources
Learn how to manage subscriptions, deploy resources, and monitor costs for efficient cloud operations.Configure and Secure Azure Networks
Master virtual network configuration, load balancing, and securing network resources using Azure Firewall and security groups.Design Infrastructure Solutions
Develop architectures that meet enterprise needs, including high availability, disaster recovery, and performance optimization.Optimize Storage Solutions
Understand how to implement Azure Storage, manage data protection, and design cost-efficient storage solutions.Secure Identities and Access
Implement advanced identity management solutions with Azure Active Directory, Multi-Factor Authentication, and role-based access control.Design for Scale and Performance
Learn how to create scalable architectures using Azure Kubernetes Service, App Services, and serverless computing solutions.Implement Monitoring and Automation
Utilize Azure Monitor and automation tools like PowerShell and Azure CLI to streamline resource management and ensure reliability.
Comprehensive, Instructor-Led Training
This training bundle is led by Microsoft-certified instructors who provide interactive sessions, real-world scenarios, and hands-on labs. Participants gain practical knowledge to address complex business challenges, ensuring confidence in both the certification exams and professional applications.
Who Should Attend?
This training is ideal for:
- IT professionals transitioning to cloud architecture roles
- Azure administrators and engineers preparing for the Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification
- Experienced IT professionals managing Azure solutions in enterprise environments
- Organizations building internal expertise in advanced Azure solution design
Master Advanced Azure Solutions with Comprehensive Training
The Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-104 + AZ-305) training bundle provides the skills and knowledge required to design and manage sophisticated Azure solutions. Enroll today to achieve your certification and advance your career in cloud architecture.
AZ-104 Exam Success Strategies
For the required AZ-104 exam success strategies, please consult the dedicated page for this course before continuing with the expert-level tips.
AZ-305 Exam Success Strategies
Mastering the AZ-305 certification is the final step toward achieving the Azure Solutions Architect Expert credential. Strategic preparation, effective time management, and optimal mental performance are equally crucial for success.
AZ-305 Exam Statistics & Success Rates
- Average Pass Rate: 55-60% on first attempt (Microsoft Expert level average)
- Most Common Score Range: 710-760 for passing candidates
- Average Study Time: 8-10 weeks for experienced Azure architects
- Retake Rate: 35-40% of candidates require a second attempt
- Top Failure Areas: Design identity, governance, and monitoring solutions (42%), Design data storage and integration solutions (39%), Design business continuity and infrastructure solutions (37%)
Study Method Comparison
| Study Approach | Duration | Pass rate | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Hands-on Practice Only |
6-7 weeks |
40-50% |
Experienced architects |
|
Documentation + Practice |
8-9 weeks |
60-65% |
Methodical learners |
|
Training + Labs + Practice |
8-10 weeks |
75-80% |
Comprehensive preparation |
|
Practice Tests Only |
3-4 weeks |
30-40% |
Not recommended |
Strategic Study Approach
- Create an 8-10 week study timeline – Expert-level certifications require substantial preparation time
- Follow the 70-20-10 rule – 70% hands-on architecture design and implementation, 20% reading documentation and case studies, 10% practice tests
- Focus on scenario-based learning – AZ-305 emphasizes real-world architectural decision-making over memorization
- Study in 90-minute focused blocks with 15-minute breaks to maximize retention
Common Exam Pitfalls to Avoid
- Don’t confuse service tiers and SKUs – understand when to use Basic, Standard, Premium, and specialized tiers for different Azure services
- Identity architecture decisions – know when to use Azure AD, Azure AD B2B, Azure AD B2C, and Azure AD Domain Services
- Storage solution selection – distinguish between Blob Storage tiers, Azure Files, Azure NetApp Files, and managed disks
- High availability vs. disaster recovery – understand the differences between availability zones, region pairs, and backup strategies
- Networking architecture – know when to use VNet peering, VPN Gateway, ExpressRoute, Virtual WAN, and Azure Firewall
- Cost optimization strategies – understand reserved instances, spot VMs, autoscaling, and right-sizing recommendations
Topic Weight Distribution
| Exam Domain | Weight | Focus Areas | Priority |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Design Identity, Governance, and Monitoring |
25-30% |
Azure AD, RBAC, policies, monitoring solutions |
Critical |
|
Design Data Storage Solutions |
25-30% |
Storage accounts, databases, data integration |
Critical |
|
Design Business Continuity Solutions |
10-15% |
Backup, disaster recovery, high availability |
High |
|
Design Infrastructure Solutions |
25-30% |
Compute, networking, application architecture |
Critical |
Exam Day Time Management
- Allocate 2 minutes per question on average – expert exams have more complex scenarios
- Read case studies completely first before attempting related questions
- Flag uncertain questions and return to them – don’t get stuck on difficult architectural decisions
- Reserve 20 minutes at the end for reviewing flagged questions and checking answers
Managing Exam Stress & Performance
- Get 7-8 hours of quality sleep the night before – avoid last-minute cramming
- Arrive 30 minutes early to settle in and complete check-in procedures calmly
- Use deep breathing techniques if you feel overwhelmed during the exam
- Trust your architectural experience – your first instinct is usually correct on design questions
Technical Preparation Tips
- Practice designing complete solutions – work through end-to-end architecture scenarios including identity, networking, storage, and compute
- Master Azure Well-Architected Framework – understand the five pillars: reliability, security, cost optimization, operational excellence, and performance efficiency
- Understand service selection criteria – know how to choose between competing Azure services based on requirements
- Review real-world case studies – study Microsoft’s architecture center and reference architectures
Final Week Preparation
- Take 2-3 practice exams to identify knowledge gaps and build confidence
- Review Microsoft’s official exam objectives one final time
- Avoid learning new concepts – focus on reinforcing architectural patterns you already know
- Prepare your exam day logistics – route to test center, required identification, arrival time
Mental Preparation Strategies
- Visualize success scenarios – imagine yourself confidently making architectural decisions
- Remind yourself of your design experience – you’ve likely architected Azure solutions before
- Stay positive during difficult questions – every candidate faces challenging architectural scenarios
- Remember that 700/1000 passes – you don’t need perfection, just solid architectural judgment
How to Schedule Your AZ-305 Exam
- Official Testing Provider: Pearson VUE is Microsoft’s authorized testing partner for AZ-305
- Scheduling Process: Create a Pearson VUE account, search for “AZ-305”, select your preferred test center and date
- Exam Cost: Included with your Eccentrix training – exam voucher provided for this expert-level certification
- Scheduling Timeline: Book at least 2-3 weeks in advance for better time slot availability
- Rescheduling Policy: Free rescheduling up to 24 hours before your exam appointment
- Required ID: Government-issued photo ID (passport, driver’s license) matching your registration name exactly
Success Mindset: Approach AZ-305 as a validation of your existing Azure architecture and design skills rather than a test of memorized facts. Your practical experience with designing scalable, secure, and cost-effective Azure solutions is your greatest asset. Passing AZ-305 completes your journey to the Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification.
Frequently asked questions about the AZ-104 and AZ-305 certification training bundle (FAQ)
What topics are covered in this training bundle?
This bundle covers Azure administration, virtual networks, storage solutions, identity management, infrastructure design, and optimization for scalability and performance.
Who is this course designed for?
This course is ideal for IT professionals aiming to advance into Azure architecture roles and earn the Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification.
What prior knowledge is recommended for this training?
Participants should have a strong understanding of Azure administration and basic cloud computing concepts.
How does this bundle prepare for the AZ-104 and AZ-305 exams?
Each course aligns with its respective exam objectives, providing both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience to ensure success.
What tools and technologies are covered in this training?
Participants will work with tools like Azure Portal, PowerShell, Azure CLI, Azure Monitor, and advanced networking and storage services.
What are the benefits of earning the Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification?
This certification demonstrates your ability to design and implement advanced cloud solutions, enhancing your career opportunities and credibility in cloud architecture roles.
Is the Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert training available remotely, and are there any discount or financing options?
Yes, this course is offered as a live, interactive virtual class via Microsoft Teams. Discounts are available for public, health, and education sectors, along with flexible financing options to optimize your training investment.
What types of practical labs or exercises are included in the Azure Solutions Architect Expert course?
The training includes immersive practical labs where participants configure, deploy, and manage real Azure solutions covering administration, infrastructure design, security, and monitoring, reinforcing the hands-on skills required for the exam and professional work.
