The Microsoft AZ-801 certification targets IT professionals aiming to enhance their knowledge of advanced Windows Server service configurations. It emphasizes on-premises, hybrid, and cloud technologies, providing a comprehensive understanding of Azure’s hybrid features. Additionally, it guides professionals in migrating server workloads, both virtual and physical, to Azure IaaS while securing Azure VMs running Windows Server.
Core Competencies and Knowledge Areas of the Microsoft AZ-801 Certification
The AZ-801 certification equips IT professionals with critical skills such as high availability, troubleshooting, and disaster recovery. It covers a variety of administrative tools and technologies, including.
- Windows Admin Center
- PowerShell
- Azure Arc
- Azure Automation Update Management
- Microsoft Defender for Identity
- Azure Security Center
- Azure Migrate
- Azure Monitor
Prerequisites for Microsoft AZ-801 Certification
Before pursuing AZ-801 certification, candidates should possess.
- Experience managing Windows Server operating systems and workloads in on-premises environments, such as AD DS, DNS, DFS, Hyper-V, and File and Storage Services.
- Familiarity with standard Windows Server management tools.
- Basic knowledge of Microsoft compute, storage, networking, and virtualization technologies.
- Experience with core networking technologies like IP addressing, name resolution, and DHCP.
- Understanding of Microsoft Hyper-V and basic server virtualization concepts.
- Awareness of fundamental security practices.
- Basic understanding of security technologies like firewalls, encryption, and multi-factor authentication.
- Knowledge of on-premises resiliency Windows Server-based compute and storage technologies, including Failover Clustering and Storage Spaces.
- Experience implementing and managing IaaS services in Microsoft Azure.
- Basic knowledge of Microsoft Entra.
- Hands-on experience with Windows client operating systems like Windows 10 or Windows 11.
- Experience with Windows PowerShell.
- Understanding of high availability, disaster recovery, automation, monitoring, and troubleshooting in the context of Windows Server technologies.
Benefits of Microsoft AZ-801 Certification
Earning the AZ-801 certification offers several advantages:
- Enhanced Security: Learn to strengthen the security of the Windows Server environment and improve hybrid security using Azure Security Center, Azure Sentinel, and Windows Update Management.
- High Availability and Disaster Recovery: Gain expertise in implementing high availability and disaster recovery solutions in hybrid scenarios.
- Migration and Upgrades: Master the planning and execution of hybrid and cloud-only migration, backup, and recovery scenarios, including upgrades and migrations related to AD DS and storage.
- Advanced Monitoring and Troubleshooting: Develop the ability to manage and monitor hybrid scenarios using tools like WAC, Azure Arc, Azure Automation, and Azure Monitor.
- Continued Learning: Post-certification, engage in one-on-one instructor coaching to further enhance your skills.
Microsoft AZ-801 Exam Details
Key details for the AZ-801 exam include.
- Exam Name: Microsoft Certified – Windows Server Hybrid Administrator Associate
- Exam Code: AZ-801
- Exam Price: $165 (USD)
- Duration: 120 minutes
- Number of Questions: 40-60
- Passing Score: 700 out of 1000
Microsoft AZ-801 Exam Syllabus Topics
The AZ-801 exam covers these main topics.
- Securing Windows Server on-premises and hybrid infrastructures (25-30%)
- Implementing and managing Windows Server high availability (10-15%)
- Implementing disaster recovery (10-15%)
- Migrating servers and workloads (20-25%)
- Monitoring and troubleshooting Windows Server environments (20-25%)
Microsoft AZ-801 Exam Preparation Tips
Successfully preparing for the AZ-801 exam requires a structured approach.
1. Understand the Exam Objectives
- Review the official syllabus to identify key topics such as security, high availability, disaster recovery, migration, and monitoring.
- Focus more on areas with greater weight, like security and migration.
2. Utilize Microsoft Learning Paths and Resources
- Use Microsoft Learn’s free learning paths, which offer hands-on labs and interactive content.
- Consider investing in official Microsoft practice exams to familiarize yourself with the format.
3. Hands-on Practice
- Set up a lab environment to practice managing Windows Server environments in simulated on-premises and hybrid scenarios.
- Use Azure’s free tier to practice deploying, managing, and migrating workloads in a hybrid cloud environment.
4. Focus on PowerShell and Automation
- Ensure comfort with PowerShell scripting and automating tasks within Windows Server and Azure environments.
- Gain hands-on experience with Azure Automation, especially for managing updates and automating processes.
5. Study Real-World Scenarios
- Review Microsoft case studies and documentation related to hybrid environments, disaster recovery, and high availability.
6. Join Study Groups and Forums
- Engage with online study groups or forums like Reddit, Microsoft Tech Community, or LinkedIn groups for insights and resources.
7. Time Management During the Exam
- Practice managing your time effectively during practice exams to ensure you can answer 40-60 questions in 120 minutes.
- Read questions carefully and avoid rushing.
8. Review and Reinforce
- Regularly revisit difficult topics to reinforce your understanding.
- Consider enrolling in an instructor-led training course for more in-depth learning.
9. Stay Updated with Microsoft Announcements
- Keep an eye on the official exam page and Microsoft blogs for any updates to the exam content.
10. Maintain a Positive Mindset
- Approach the exam with confidence, ensuring you’re well-rested and ready to tackle the questions one by one.
By following these tips and utilizing available resources, you’ll be well-prepared to succeed in the Microsoft AZ-801 exam.
Conclusion
The Microsoft AZ-801 certification is crucial for IT professionals seeking to advance in Windows Server administration. Focusing on security, high availability, disaster recovery, and hybrid environments, this certification equips you with the skills needed to excel in today’s complex IT landscapes.
FAQs
1. What is the Microsoft AZ-801 certification?
The AZ-801 certification is for IT professionals who want to enhance their skills in advanced Windows Server service configurations, focusing on on-premises, hybrid, and cloud technologies.
2. What topics are covered in the AZ-801 exam?
The exam covers securing Windows Server infrastructures, high availability, disaster recovery, server migrations, and monitoring/troubleshooting.
3. What are the prerequisites for taking the AZ-801 exam?
Candidates should have experience managing Windows Server operating systems, familiarity with Windows Server management tools, and knowledge of networking, virtualization, and security technologies.
4. How can I prepare for the AZ-801 exam?
Preparation involves understanding the exam objectives, practicing in a lab environment, focusing on PowerShell and automation, and using Microsoft Learn resources.
5. What are the benefits of earning the AZ-801 certification?
Benefits include enhanced security skills, expertise in high availability and disaster recovery, proficiency in migration and upgrades, and advanced monitoring and troubleshooting capabilities.
6. Where can I find official study resources for the AZ-801 exam?
Official resources are available on Microsoft Learn, including free learning paths, hands-on labs, and practice exams.
7. How can I stay updated on changes to the AZ-801 exam?
Keep an eye on the official Microsoft exam page and Microsoft blogs for any updates or changes to the exam content.
