Cloud computing has transformed the way businesses operate by offering scalable, reliable, and cost-effective infrastructure and services. Microsoft Azure is one of the leading cloud service providers globally, and the AZ-900 course is tailored to equip learners with the essential knowledge required to begin working with Azure services or to support organizational cloud initiatives.

This course serves as an introduction to Microsoft Azure and covers core cloud concepts such as Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), Software as a Service (SaaS), public and private clouds, and hybrid cloud models. It also delves into Azure’s architecture, core services, governance tools, security features, and pricing models.

The AZ-900 course is delivered through a mix of instructor-led sessions, self-paced modules, and hands-on labs. Learners are provided with practical scenarios and exercises to reinforce theoretical concepts, ensuring they gain the confidence to use the Azure platform effectively.

Target Audience

The AZ-900 course is suitable for a broad audience, particularly those who are new to cloud technologies. It is ideal for:

• Business stakeholders or non-technical professionals seeking to understand the impact of cloud computing on their organization.

• Students and newcomers to IT who want a foundational understanding of cloud services.

• Technical sales professionals and consultants responsible for advising customers on Azure solutions.

• IT professionals transitioning to cloud-based roles or looking to formalize their knowledge.

• Project managers, product owners, and analysts who manage or oversee cloud-related initiatives.

The course ensures that learners, regardless of their background, leave with the ability to converse confidently about cloud technology and Azure’s capabilities.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

• Describe the fundamental concepts of cloud computing and its benefits.

• Identify core Azure services, solutions, and management tools.

• Explain the fundamentals of cloud security, privacy, compliance, and trust in Azure.

• Understand Azure pricing, Service Level Agreements (SLAs), and support options.

• Navigate the Azure portal and perform basic resource management.

• Differentiate between various Azure architectural components and compute services.

This foundational knowledge prepares learners for more advanced Azure certifications and job roles involving Azure-based technologies.

Course Modules and Content

The AZ-900 course is divided into four major learning domains, each covering specific topics critical to cloud understanding and Azure operations.

Module 1: Describe Cloud Concepts

This module introduces the core principles and advantages of cloud computing, helping learners understand how and why cloud services are transforming modern IT.

Topics include:

• Principles of cloud computing

• Advantages of cloud services

• Types of cloud computing (Public, Private, Hybrid)

• Types of cloud service models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS)

Learners will understand how the flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness of cloud models compare with traditional on-premises infrastructure.

Module 2: Describe Core Azure Services

This module focuses on key services and solutions available within the Azure platform. Learners will explore compute, networking, and storage services, as well as tools that allow for effective resource management and automation.

Topics include:

• Core Azure architectural components (regions, availability zones, resource groups)

• Azure compute services (virtual machines, app services, containers)

• Networking services (virtual networks, load balancers, VPN gateways)

• Azure storage services (blob storage, disk storage, file storage)

• Azure database services (SQL Database, Cosmos DB)

• Azure Marketplace offerings

Hands-on labs provide an opportunity to interact with the Azure portal and create basic services such as virtual machines and storage accounts.

Module 3: Describe Security, Privacy, Compliance, and Trust

Security is a central concern for any cloud platform, and Azure provides robust solutions to safeguard user data and infrastructure. This module covers Azure’s security features and compliance resources.

Topics include:

• Azure identity services: Azure Active Directory (Azure AD), Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)

• Network security: Network Security Groups (NSGs), firewalls, DDoS protection

• Azure governance: Policies, resource locks, management groups, blueprints

• Compliance resources and data protection standards (e.g., GDPR, ISO, NIST)

• Microsoft Privacy Statement and Trust Center

Learners will gain insight into how Azure ensures data integrity, confidentiality, and compliance with international regulations.

Module 4: Describe Azure Pricing, SLA, and Lifecycle

This final module helps learners understand how to manage and optimize Azure costs, utilize support resources, and plan for service reliability.

Topics include:

• Azure subscription models and management

• Pricing calculators and total cost of ownership (TCO) estimators

• Azure billing and cost management tools

• Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and service lifecycle

• Support plans and technical assistance options

By mastering these concepts, learners can evaluate Azure’s financial and operational impact within their organization or project.

Hands-On Labs and Exercises

Throughout the course, learners engage with interactive labs designed to reinforce key concepts. These labs include:

• Navigating the Azure Portal

• Creating and managing Azure resources

• Implementing basic role-based access control

• Configuring virtual networks

• Analyzing pricing and cost management tools

These practical experiences are invaluable for building confidence in using Azure’s interface and services in real-world scenarios.

Course Duration and Delivery Formats

The AZ-900 course can be delivered in various formats to accommodate different learning preferences and schedules:

• Instructor-Led Training (ILT) – Typically 1 to 2 full days of live virtual or classroom sessions.

• Self-Paced Learning – Online, modular learning allowing flexible completion.

• Blended Learning – A combination of live instruction and self-paced modules.

Some learners may complete the course in 8–12 hours of focused study, while others may take longer depending on experience and learning style.