Choosing the right Azure certification can be tricky, especially when deciding between AZ-500 and AZ-204. Both are highly respected in the cloud industry, but they focus on different areas. If you’re wondering whether to go for cloud security or cloud development, this guide will help you figure it out.
Some professionals enjoy building and maintaining cloud applications themselves, while others prefer securing them from cyber threats. So, which path suits you best as Microsoft certified Azure specialist? And more importantly, which certification opens up better job opportunities? Let’s break these Microsoft Azure certifications down and help you make the right choice.
Comparison
| Feature | AZ-500 (Microsoft Azure Security Technologies) | AZ-204 (Developing Solutions for Microsoft Azure) |
| Target Audience | Security professionals, security engineers, Azure data engineer associate, Azure security engineer associate | Developers, software engineers, Azure developer associate, Azure administrator associate, Azure data scientist associate |
| Focus Area | Security, threat protection, identity & access management | Developing, deploying, and optimizing Azure applications |
| Prerequisites | Basic knowledge of Azure security, networking, and identity management | Basic knowledge of Azure services, programming skills in languages like C#, Python, or JavaScript |
| Exam Cost | $165 USD | $165 USD |
| Difficulty Level | Intermediate to Advanced | Intermediate |
| Skills Measured | – Identity and access management- Security operations- Data protection and encryption- Network security and compliance | – Developing Azure compute solutions- Implementing Azure security and authentication- Monitoring, troubleshooting, and optimizing Azure solutions- Integrating Azure services and APIs |
| Ideal for | Security engineers, IT security professionals, SOC analysts | Azure developers, cloud engineers, application developers |
| Job Roles | Azure Security Engineer, Security Administrator, SOC Analyst | Azure Developer, Software Engineer, Cloud Developer |
| Certification Validity | 1 year | 1 year |
| Renewal Requirement | Free renewal exam every year | Free renewal exam every year |
If you’re leaning toward the security side after that comparison, don’t miss AZ-500 Certification Guide. It covers the exam’s structure, key topics, and how to prep like a pro.
AZ-500: The Cert That Turns You Into a Cloud Security Specialist
Cloud security is no joke. Companies are pumping billions into protecting their data, and Azure Security Engineers are at the front line. That’s exactly where AZ-500 comes in; it’s not about writing code, it’s about locking down Azure environments, stopping threats, and making sure bad actors don’t get in.
If you are eyeing a security-focused career, AZ-500 is your way in. You’ll dive deep into identity management, threat detection, security operations, and compliance, all while learning how to secure everything in Azure, from virtual machines to databases. These are the core data concepts and Azure data fundamentals.
But let’s break it down, what exactly does this cert teach you?
What You’ll Learn in AZ-500 (And Why It Matters in Security Jobs)
Security isn’t just about throwing firewalls around and hoping for the best. The AZ-500 cert teaches real-world security techniques that cloud professionals use every day. Here’s what you’ll get into:
1. Identity and Access Management (IAM) – Controlling Who Gets In
- Azure AD isn’t just a sign-in tool. You’ll master Conditional Access, Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Privileged Identity Management (PIM), and Role-Based Access Control (RBAC).
- Companies take identity security seriously, if attackers get past the login, they own the system. AZ-500 makes sure that doesn’t happen.
- Zero Trust Security is the future, and this cert drills that into you.
2. Threat Protection – Finding and Stopping Attacks Before They Happen
- Ever heard of Microsoft Defender for Cloud? You’ll be using it a lot.
- Learn how to detect security risks in Azure workloads, containers, and virtual networks.
- Configure Sentinel SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) to track security threats in real-time.
3. Security Operations – Keeping the Cloud Locked Down
- Firewalls, encryption, and VPNs—basic security, right? Nope.
- You’ll dive into Azure Firewall, DDoS protection, network security groups (NSGs), and Web Application Firewall (WAF) to stop attacks before they even start.
- Learn how to set up Log Analytics to monitor security logs and catch suspicious activity.
4. Data Protection – Because Leaks Ruin Everything
- Understand encryption methods, data classification, and how to lock down storage accounts.
- Learn how to set up Azure Key Vault for managing sensitive information.
- Companies get hit with fines if they mess up security, this cert makes sure you won’t be the reason for a data breach.
Job Roles That Align with AZ-500
This cert is for security-first cloud pros. If you’re looking for roles where you secure rather than build, AZ-500 puts you on the right track. Here’s where it leads:
- Azure Security Engineer – The go-to role for AZ-500. You’ll be securing Azure workloads, fixing vulnerabilities, and managing identity security.
- SOC Analyst (Security Operations Center Analyst) – You’ll monitor and respond to security threats, hunting down cyber threats before they turn into full-blown attacks.
- Cloud Security Architect – If you’re thinking bigger, this role involves designing security frameworks for entire cloud environments.
- IT Security Consultant – Helping companies secure their cloud infrastructure while making sure they meet compliance requirements.
Why AZ-500 Matters for Cloud Professionals
Security is where cloud careers are booming. With data breaches making headlines every other week, companies aren’t taking chances anymore. Azure needs security engineers, and AZ-500 gets you noticed.
This cert is a solid upgrade if you’re already working in cloud engineering, sysadmin, or networking. Even developers can benefit, if you build cloud services or apps but don’t understand security, you’re leaving holes for hackers.
This isn’t an entry-level cert, though. Microsoft recommends at least a year of experience in Azure security before taking AZ-500. If you are new to cloud security, you might want to start with AZ-104 (Azure Administrator) first.
AZ-204: The Go-To Certification for Cloud Developers
If you’re more into building cloud solutions than securing them, AZ-204 is the cert that makes sense. AZ-204 Certification Guide covers everything from prerequisites to real-world development scenarios you’ll face in the exam. It’s built for developers who want to design, build, and deploy apps on Microsoft Azure.
Think of it this way, while AZ-500 focuses on locking down cloud environments, AZ-204 is all about creating cloud-based applications that actually run inside those cloud concepts and environments. It’s perfect for developers looking to step into cloud computing or level up their existing Azure skills.
So, what exactly do you get out of this cert? Let’s break it down.
What Does AZ-204 Prepare You for in Real-World Cloud Development?
Azure is huge, and cloud development isn’t just writing code, it’s about building scalable, secure, and efficient applications that run in the cloud. AZ-204 makes sure you know how to:
1. Build and Deploy Azure App Services
- Learn how to develop web apps using Azure App Services.
- Configure autoscaling, custom domains, authentication, and performance monitoring.
- Deploy APIs and manage backend services in a cloud-native way.
2. Work with Containers and Kubernetes
- Understand Docker containers and how they fit into cloud development.
- Deploy containerized applications using Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS).
- Learn Azure Container Instances (ACI) for running lightweight containers without managing servers.
3. Implement Serverless Computing
- Work with Azure Functions, which let you run event-driven code without provisioning servers.
- Use Logic Apps and Event Grid to build automated cloud workflows.
- Reduce infrastructure costs by moving away from traditional VM-based architectures.
4. Manage Data in Azure
- Work with Azure Cosmos DB, SQL Database, and Blob Storage.
- Integrate cloud apps with data services and manage data access, security, and backups.
- Learn how to optimize databases for performance and scalability.
5. DevOps Integration: Automating Deployments & CI/CD
- Use Azure DevOps to automate deployments and manage application lifecycles.
- Implement CI/CD pipelines for faster, more reliable app releases.
- Learn how to monitor applications using Application Insights.
Who Should Take AZ-204?
If you’re a developer looking to work in the cloud, AZ-204 is your best entry point. It’s designed for:
- Cloud Developers – Those who build and deploy apps in Azure.
- Software Engineers – Anyone looking to shift from traditional app development to cloud-based development.
- DevOps Engineers – DevOps pros who want to understand how Azure-based apps work.
- Full-Stack Developers – Anyone working with cloud-hosted web and mobile applications.
Unlike AZ-500, which is security-focused, AZ-204 is a must-have for developers who want to work in cloud-native environments. If you already have coding experience but want to scale applications on the cloud, this is the cert that gives you that edge.
Which Exam Is Harder? AZ-500 vs AZ-204 Difficulty Level
If you’re stuck choosing between AZ-500 and AZ-204, one big question might be, which one is harder? The answer isn’t as simple as picking the “tougher” one. It depends on your background, experience, and whether you’re more comfortable with development or security.
Let’s break it down so you can figure out which one might be a bigger challenge for you.
Does One Exam Require More Experience Than the Other?
Both AZ-500 and AZ-204 are considered intermediate-level certs, meaning they aren’t entry-level, but they also don’t require expert-level experience. However, there’s a difference in the kind of knowledge each exam expects you to have:
- AZ-204 (Cloud Developer Cert) → You need solid coding experience in languages like C#, Python, JavaScript, or Java. You should also understand API integrations, Azure services, and DevOps principles.
- AZ-500 (Cloud Security Cert) → This one leans more into security principles, identity management, threat protection, and compliance. You should have basic Azure admin knowledge (like from AZ-104) before attempting it.
So, which one is harder experience-wise?
- If you don’t have development experience, AZ-204 will feel tough.
- If you don’t have security knowledge, AZ-500 can feel overwhelming.
- If you’re coming from an IT admin, networking, or security background, AZ-500 will be easier for you than AZ-204.
- If you’re a developer, AZ-204 will be the easier path.
Breaking Down the Challenge: Theoretical vs. Hands-on Questions
Both exams include multiple-choice questions, case studies, and scenario-based problem-solving. However, the way they test your knowledge of data science is different.
AZ-204 Exam Format
- Lots of hands-on coding questions – Expect real-world Azure development scenarios.
- Questions about writing, debugging, and deploying cloud applications.
- You might get tasks where you fix a piece of code or identify errors.
What makes AZ-204 hard?
- If you don’t have experience working with Azure SDKs, APIs, and DevOps, this exam can get tricky.
- The coding aspect makes it different from security/admin certs, which focus more on concepts and configurations.
AZ-500 Exam Format
- Focuses on Azure security features, configurations, and policies.
- Many questions test how well you understand security tools like Azure AD, Defender for Cloud, and Sentinel.
- Some questions are hands-on, requiring you to configure security settings.
What makes AZ-500 hard?
- Security is a mix of theory and application, meaning you have to remember a lot of security principles and compliance rules.
- If you’re not comfortable with Azure identity management, role-based access control (RBAC), and security monitoring, you will struggle.
How Much Prep Time is Needed for Each?
How long you need to study depends on your existing knowledge.
AZ-204 Preparation Time
- If you’re an experienced developer: 2-3 months with focused study.
- If you’re new to cloud development: 3-5 months, plus hands-on practice with Azure.
- You must practice deploying apps in Azure—just reading study guides won’t cut it.
AZ-500 Preparation Time
- If you already work in security or Azure admin: 1-2 months of solid prep.
- If you’re new to security but know Azure: 2-4 months.
- If you’re new to both Azure and security: 4+ months, since you need to learn Azure basics first.
What Study Resources Help for Each Exam?
Best Study Resources for AZ-204
- Microsoft Learn AZ-204 Path – Covers all exam topics for free.
- Pluralsight / Udemy Courses – Look for hands-on labs to practice coding.
- Microsoft Docs – Read up on Azure Functions, Containers, and DevOps tools.
- Azure Free Tier – Spin up App Services, Databases, and Kubernetes clusters to practice.
- Practice Tests – Get used to scenario-based questions and time management.
- AZ-204 Exam Dumps – A solid way to reinforce your learning with real-world scenarios and verified questions.
Best Study Resources for AZ-500
- Microsoft Learn AZ-500 Path – Free and well-structured for security concepts.
- Pluralsight / Udemy Courses – Make sure the course has real Azure security labs.
- Microsoft Docs – Deep dive into Azure AD, Microsoft Defender, Sentinel, and Security Center.
- Hands-on Practice – Set up Azure security policies, configure RBAC, and test Defender alerts.
- Practice Tests – Security exams are heavily scenario-based, so practice exams help.
- AZ-500 Exam Dumps – These dumps are tailored to the latest exam format and help you nail down tricky scenario-based questions fast.
For those looking for an efficient, shortcut-free way to prepare, Cert Empire offers up-to-date resources and expertly curated materials for both certifications.
Certifications and Career Opportunities: Who Hires AZ-500 vs AZ-204 Certified Pros?
Picking between AZ-500 and AZ-204 isn’t just about the exam—it’s about where each cert takes you in your career. One pushes you into cloud security, the other into cloud development. The question is, who’s hiring, what are they paying, and which one has better long-term prospects?
Let’s get straight to it.
Tech Giants vs. Startups: Who’s Looking for AZ-500 Certified Experts?
If you’re AZ-500 certified, you’re stepping into the world of cloud security, a field that’s exploding in demand. Companies of all sizes are scrambling to lock down their cloud environments, and that’s where AZ-500 pros come in.
Big Enterprises & Cloud Security Needs
Large companies, especially those in finance, healthcare, and government, are actively hiring AZ-500-certified security engineers. These industries are tightly regulated, so they need experts who can handle compliance, threat management, and cloud security operations.
Companies hiring AZ-500 pros:
- Tech giants (Microsoft, Google, Amazon, IBM) → Need Azure security engineers for cloud platforms.
- Banks & FinTech (JPMorgan, Citibank, PayPal) → Must secure financial transactions & customer data.
- Healthcare & Insurance (UnitedHealth, Cigna, Blue Cross) → Data security is a priority due to HIPAA regulations.
- Government & Defense (NSA, DoD, Aerospace firms) → High-security compliance needs make AZ-500 a must.
These organizations need security-first cloud experts to protect against data breaches, cyber threats, and compliance violations.
What About Startups?
Startups are generally more focused on building products (which is where developers shine), but they still need security professionals. However, unlike big enterprises, they may hire generalist cloud engineers who handle both development and security instead of dedicated data engineers or security specialists.
The Growing Demand for AZ-204 Professionals in Cloud Development Teams
On the other side, AZ-204-certified developers are being hired like crazy because every company needs cloud-based applications. Whether it’s a SaaS product, a mobile app backend, or an AI-powered system, developers who can build and deploy in Azure are in demand.
Where AZ-204 Pros Fit In
Big Tech & Software Companies:
- Microsoft, Google, Amazon, IBM → Building cloud-native applications for enterprise customers.
- SaaS & Cloud Startups (Atlassian, Stripe, Twilio) → Every cloud-first product needs Azure developers.
- E-commerce & Retail Giants (Amazon, Walmart, Shopify) → Cloud apps power logistics, payments & customer analytics.
- AI & Big Data Companies → Need developers who can deploy AI models and scalable cloud solutions.
Startups & Scale-ups Love AZ-204 Devs
Unlike security roles, developers are a must-have in every tech-driven startup. Startups don’t just need someone to secure their infrastructure—they need people to actually build their apps, and that’s where AZ-204 shines.
If you want flexibility in career choices, AZ-204 is the better option. You can work in enterprise-level companies or join a startup and build the next big cloud-based product.
Salary Trends and Earning Potential: Which Pays More?
Both AZ-500 and AZ-204 open doors to high-paying jobs, but security specialists tend to earn slightly more than developers due to the critical nature of security roles.
Average Salaries (Based on Industry Data & Job Listings)
| Role | Avg Salary (USD) | Growth Potential |
| Azure Security Engineer (AZ-500) | $110K – $160K | High |
| SOC Analyst (AZ-500) | $90K – $130K | Medium |
| Cloud Security Architect (AZ-500) | $140K – $190K | Very High |
| Cloud Developer (AZ-204) | $100K – $150K | High |
| Azure DevOps Engineer (AZ-204) | $120K – $170K | Very High |
| Software Engineer (AZ-204) | $90K – $140K | High |
Who Gets Paid More?
- AZ-500 pros in security-focused roles (especially Cloud Security Architects and Security Engineers) tend to earn more than developers. Why? Security breaches are expensive, and companies will pay top dollar to prevent them.
- AZ-204-certified developers also earn great salaries, especially those specializing in DevOps, Kubernetes, and AI/ML workloads. DevOps engineers with AZ-204 can often out-earn security engineers because they handle automation, deployment, and scalability, things every company needs.
Which Certification Has More Long-Term Value?
- If you love coding and building applications, AZ-204 is the better long-term choice. Cloud development jobs aren’t going anywhere, and companies constantly look for skilled Azure developers.
- If you enjoy security, compliance, and defending against cyber threats, AZ-500 will give you high job security and pay. Security roles are critical in today’s digital landscape.
- If you want maximum career flexibility, getting both AZ-204 and AZ-500 makes you a highly valuable Azure cloud professional, someone who can build and secure cloud applications.
Both certs have strong earning potential, but security specialists have a slight edge in salary, while developers have broader job opportunities.
Final Thoughts: Which Certification Will Get You Hired Faster?
If you want job security, high salaries, and a focus on cybersecurity, AZ-500 is a great investment. Security roles are highly valued, and you’ll always be needed.
If you want to build cloud-based applications, work in startups, or transition into DevOps, AZ-204 is the best path. Developers are always in demand, and cloud development skills give you an edge.
If you want maximum job opportunities, consider getting both. AZ-204 makes you a cloud dev expert, and AZ-500 adds security expertise, making you a well-rounded Azure pro.
FAQs
Can a beginner take AZ-500 or AZ-204 without prior experience?
Technically, yes, but it’s tough. AZ-500 expects you to know Azure security basics, while AZ-204 requires coding experience. If you’re new, start with AZ-900 (Fundamentals) or AZ-104 (Administrator) before tackling these.
Which certification is better for someone interested in DevOps?
AZ-204 is the better choice since it covers CI/CD pipelines, containers, and automation, all essential for DevOps. If you’re serious about DevOps, follow it up with AZ-400 (Azure DevOps Engineer Expert).
Does AZ-500 require coding knowledge like AZ-204?
No, AZ-500 doesn’t focus on coding, but you should be comfortable with PowerShell, CLI, and JSON configurations for setting up data storage and security policies. AZ-204, on the other hand, is heavy on coding for cloud development.
Which exam has a higher pass rate?
AZ-204 is generally considered harder because of its hands-on coding challenges. AZ-500 has a slightly higher pass rate, but it still requires deep knowledge of Azure security services and configurations.
Can I switch from a cloud development role to security after AZ-204?
Yes, but you’ll need to learn security principles and Azure security tools. AZ-500 would be a good next step to transition into cloud security roles if you already work with Azure.
Last Updated on by Team CE
