Azure certifications can be a game-changer if you want to grow your cloud computing career. However, with so many options, choosing the right one can get confusing, especially when deciding between AZ-104 and AZ-204.
Both are Microsoft Azure certifications, but they serve different purposes. AZ-104 is for those who want to manage cloud infrastructure, while AZ-204 is designed for developers who build applications on Azure. But which one is more practical? Which one leads to better job opportunities? Which one is the right choice for your career goals?
Let’s break it down into exam details, difficulty levels, career impact, salaries, and more so you can make the best choice for your future.
Comparison
| Feature | AZ-104 (Microsoft Azure Administrator) | AZ-204 (Developing Solutions for Microsoft Azure) |
| Exam Level | Associate (Intermediate) | Associate (Intermediate) |
| Intended Audience | IT professionals, Azure administrators, system engineers | Developers, software engineers, cloud application developers |
| Exam Cost | $165 USD (varies by location) | $165 USD (varies by location) |
| Prerequisites | Basic experience with Azure (recommended) | Programming experience with Azure services (recommended) |
| Exam Duration | 120 minutes | 120 minutes |
| Number of Questions | 40–60 questions | 40–60 questions |
| Question Format | Multiple-choice, case studies, drag-and-drop, and scenarios | Multiple-choice, case studies, drag-and-drop, scenarios |
| Passing Score | 700/1000 | 700/1000 |
AZ-104: The Admin’s Gateway to Cloud Infrastructure
If you’re stepping into cloud computing and prefer managing systems overwriting code, AZ-104 is the certification that fits. To get a full breakdown of the exam format, required skills, and preparation strategies, check out our AZ-104 Certification Guide. It’s built for IT pros who maintain cloud environments, handle storage, network, virtual machines, and security. While developers focus on building applications, cloud admins make sure everything behind the scenes works without a hitch.
What Does AZ-104 Actually Cover?
This azure knowledge also isn’t about theory or memorizing terms. It’s a practical certification that proves you know how to operate and maintain an Azure setup. The focus of the azure data engineer associate certification is on managing cloud resources, security, and infrastructure, not writing software.
Here’s what the exam tests you on Azure solutions:
- Managing Azure identities and governance – Setting up users, groups, and permissions using Azure Active Directory (AD). If a company wants role-based access control or multi-factor authentication, an Azure admin handles it.
- Implementing and managing storage – Working with Azure Blob Storage, Disks, and Files. Configuring backup policies and ensuring data stays secure.
- Deploying and managing compute resources – Virtual machines (VMs) power cloud workloads. Expect questions on setting up, monitoring, and optimizing them for performance.
- Configuring and managing virtual networking – Setting up VNets, firewalls, load balancers, and ensuring the right connections between resources.
- Monitoring and backing up Azure resources – Using tools like Azure Monitor, Log Analytics, and setting up alerts to catch problems before they escalate.
AZ-104 is hands-on, meaning you’ll need to practice using Azure Portal, PowerShell, and CLI to actually manage resources.
Who Should Take AZ-104?
This first certification exam is not for developers. It’s for IT professionals who want to move into cloud administration. If you’re already working in IT, this exam validates that you can manage Azure infrastructure instead of just handling traditional on-prem systems.
Good candidates for AZ-104 include:
- IT Administrators – Those shifting from managing physical servers to cloud-based infrastructure.
- Cloud Support Engineers – Already working with Azure but need certification to prove their skills.
- Network Engineers or System Administrators – Want to expand into Azure networking and cloud operations.
- Help Desk / Technical Support Professionals – Looking to move into higher-level cloud admin roles.
If your job involves setting up and maintaining IT systems rather than coding applications, AZ-104 is the logical step forward.
How Difficult Is AZ-104?
It’s not beginner-level, but it’s also not the hardest certification. You’ll recognize many of the topics if you already know networking, data science, storage, and IT operations. If the cloud is completely new, expect to spend time learning Azure tools, Azure compute solutions, Azure data fundamentals, and Azure storage concepts from scratch.
How long it takes to prepare depends on experience:
- 1-2 months if you’ve worked with Azure skills before.
- 3-4 months if you’re starting fresh.
The exam is structured to test real-world problem-solving, not just definitions. If you want to enhance your practice with real-world questions, high-quality AZ-104 Exam Dumps from Cert Empire can help you prepare effectively. You’ll need hands-on experience to pass, since questions often require using the Azure Portal, CLI, or PowerShell to configure resources.
Why AZ-104 Is Worth It
Cloud computing is growing fast, and companies need skilled professionals who can actually manage infrastructure. AZ-104 proves you can do that. It’s ideal for anyone aiming to become an Azure Administrator or Cloud Engineer, and it builds the foundation for higher-level Azure certifications.
AZ-204: The Developer’s Take on Cloud Computing
For developers who want to build and deploy applications in the cloud, AZ-204 is the go-to certification. If you’re preparing for the exam and need expert insights, explore our AZ-204 Certification Guide. It’s designed for professionals who don’t just use Azure infrastructure but develop, integrate, and secure cloud-based applications. While AZ-104 focuses on managing cloud resources, AZ-204 is about creating and developing solutions that run on Azure fundamentals, coding, automating, and optimizing cloud applications.
What Makes AZ-204 a Developer’s Certification?
This exam isn’t about setting up virtual machines or configuring storage policies. Instead, it tests your ability to write, deploy, and optimize cloud applications using Microsoft’s tools and services. It’s all about building functional cloud solutions, automating tasks, and integrating services to make apps scalable and efficient.
Expect to be tested on these core data concepts for Azure database administrator associate:
- Writing and deploying code for Azure – You’ll work with Azure Functions, Web Apps, and App Services to create cloud-based solutions.
- Implementing security and authentication – Managing app authentication using Azure AD, OAuth, and role-based access controls.
- Working with APIs and integrating Azure services – Handling REST APIs, Graph API, and services like Event Grid, Service Bus, and Logic Apps.
- Optimizing app performance and monitoring – Using Application Insights, Azure Monitor, and logging tools to troubleshoot issues.
- Developing cloud solutions with storage and databases – Interacting with Azure SQL, Cosmos DB, Blob Storage, and working with NoSQL and relational databases.
It’s a developer-focused certification, so knowing how to write code in C#, Python, JavaScript, or another major language is essential.
Who Should Take AZ-204?
AZ-204 is ideal for professionals who work with cloud-based applications rather than managing the cloud infrastructure itself. If you’re already in software development and want to build scalable, secure applications in Azure, this cert proves you can do it.
Good candidates include:
- Software Engineers – Those building cloud-native applications and need to master Azure’s development tools.
- DevOps Engineers – Professionals automating deployments, handling CI/CD pipelines, and managing cloud-based applications.
- Solution Architects – Developers designing cloud-based architectures and ensuring applications run efficiently in Azure.
- Full-Stack Developers – Those integrating cloud services into web and mobile applications.
If you write code and want to transition into cloud development, AZ-204 helps validate those skills.
How Long Does It Take to Prepare?
The difficulty depends on your coding experience and familiarity with Azure.
- 1-2 months if you already develop applications and have worked with Azure services.
- 3-4 months if you’re new to Azure and need to learn how its cloud development tools work.
Since this exam is hands-on, practicing in Azure Sandbox, using PowerShell/CLI, and deploying real apps will make a big difference. To further solidify your knowledge, AZ-204 Exam Dumps from Cert Empire provide real-world exam scenarios.
Why AZ-204 Stands Out
This isn’t just another developer certification. It shows that you know how to build and optimize cloud applications, a skill in high demand as businesses shift to cloud-first models. If your goal is to work in cloud development, DevOps, or cloud architecture, AZ-204 is one of the most valuable Azure certs to get.
How do These Two Exams Stack Up Against Each Other?
AZ-104 and AZ-204 may both be Azure certifications, but they test completely different skill sets. One is for keeping and maintaining cloud applications and systems running, the other is for building cloud-based applications. Whether you’re choosing based on job roles, difficulty, or cost, there are some key differences worth knowing.
Is the Exam Format the Same?
Not exactly. While both exams follow Microsoft’s standard testing structure, the types of questions and focus areas vary.
| Feature | AZ-104 (Azure Administrator) | AZ-204 (Azure Developer) |
| Number of Questions | 40-60 | 40-60 |
| Duration | 120 minutes | 120 minutes |
| Question Types | Multiple choice, case studies, hands-on labs | Multiple choice, case studies, hands-on coding scenarios |
| Focus Area | Managing cloud resources, networking, security | Writing, deploying, and securing cloud applications |
AZ-204 includes more scenario-based coding questions, which means you need to be comfortable writing and debugging scripts. AZ-104, on the other hand, focuses more on configuring Azure services and making sure systems work correctly.
Which Exam Covers More Ground in Cloud Infrastructure?
This depends on what “cloud infrastructure” means to you.
- AZ-104 focuses on cloud operations – It’s all about setting up virtual machines, handling networking, managing security, and monitoring resources. If you want to be the person keeping the system stable and optimized, this exam covers more of that side.
- AZ-204 focuses on cloud application development – Instead of managing resources, you’ll be writing code that uses cloud resources. This means working with APIs, databases, authentication, and app deployment.
| Exam | Main Focus |
| AZ-104 | Managing cloud infrastructure, security, networking, storage |
| AZ-204 | Developing, deploying, and securing cloud applications |
If your goal is hands-on infrastructure management, AZ-104 has more direct relevance. If you’re a developer building apps that run on the cloud, AZ-204 is the one to go for.
Which One is Tougher?
That depends on your background.
- If you’re coming from IT support, networking, or system administration, AZ-104 will feel more natural. The biggest challenge is learning Azure-specific tools if you’re not used to working in the cloud.
- If you’re a developer who hasn’t worked much with cloud platforms, AZ-204 will have a steep learning curve. You’ll need to understand Azure services, authentication methods, and API integrations while still writing functional code.
| Factor | AZ-104 (Admin) | AZ-204 (Developer) |
| Technical Depth | Moderate (networking, security, cloud operations) | High (coding, APIs, app security) |
| Learning Curve | Easier for IT pros, harder for devs | Easier for devs, harder for IT pros |
| Hands-On Requirement | Configuring Azure services, troubleshooting infrastructure | Writing code, debugging cloud apps |
| Prerequisite Knowledge | IT administration, networking, virtualization | Coding, app deployment, API integration |
AZ-204 requires actual coding skills, making it harder for non-developers. AZ-104, while technical, is more configuration-based rather than programming-heavy.
How Do the Costs Compare?
Both exams cost the same upfront, but there are some hidden expenses to think about.
| Cost Factor | AZ-104 | AZ-204 |
| Exam Fee | $165 | $165 |
| Study Materials | $50-$300 (books, practice tests, courses) | $50-$300 (books, practice tests, courses) |
| Azure Subscription for Hands-On Practice | Free trial or ~$30/month | Free trial or ~$30/month |
| Retake Fee | Full price unless you have a discount voucher | Full price unless you have a discount voucher |
If you’re planning to retake the exam, that’s another $165 per attempt. Some people also buy exam prep courses, which can range from $50 to $500 depending on the provider.
For AZ-204, having an active Azure subscription is even more important since coding and testing cloud apps require live resources. That could add extra costs if you’re practicing outside of the free trial.
Career Impact: Which Certification Opens More Doors?
Choosing between AZ-104 and AZ-204 can shape your career path in distinct ways. Let’s break down how each certification influences job opportunities, potential earnings, and industry demand.
Which One Pays More?
Salaries for professionals with AZ-104 or AZ-204 certifications can vary based on role, experience, and location.
- AZ-104 (Azure Administrator Associate): According to data from 2023, Azure Administrators earn an average annual salary of around $121,420.
- AZ-204 (Azure Developer Associate): Azure Developers have an average annual salary of approximately $126,747 in the USA.
While both roles offer competitive salaries, Azure Developers tend to earn slightly more, reflecting the specialized skills required for development tasks.
What Kind of Jobs Do These Certifications Lead To?
Each certification aligns with specific job roles:
- AZ-104:
- Cloud Administrator: Manages cloud services, ensuring optimal performance and security.
- IT Engineer: Oversees the implementation and maintenance of IT systems within the Azure environment.
- Support Analyst: Provides technical support and troubleshooting for Azure-related issues.
- AZ-204:
- Cloud Developer: Builds and deploys applications on the Azure platform.
- DevOps Engineer: Integrates development and operations to enhance deployment processes.
- Software Architect: Designs scalable and efficient software solutions using Azure services.
There’s potential for overlap; for instance, a professional might start as a Cloud Administrator and transition into a DevOps role by acquiring additional development skills.
Industry Demand: Are More Companies Hiring AZ-104 or AZ-204 Certified Professionals?
The demand for both certifications is strong, but it varies by industry:
- Enterprise IT: Larger organizations often seek AZ-104 certified professionals to manage extensive cloud infrastructures.
- Cloud-Native Development: Companies focusing on developing cloud-based applications may prefer AZ-204 certified developers.
As cloud adoption grows, the need for both administrators and developers to implement solutions continues to rise.
Which Field Has More Growth Potential?
Both fields offer significant growth opportunities:
- Administrator Path (AZ-104): Professionals can advance to roles like Cloud Architect or IT Manager, overseeing larger teams and more complex infrastructures.
- Developer Path (AZ-204): Developers can progress to Senior Developer, DevOps Lead, or Solutions Architect positions, focusing on designing advanced cloud solutions.
Continuous learning and obtaining advanced certifications can further enhance career prospects in both paths.
Do You Need Prior Experience to Take These Exams?
AZ-104 (Azure Administrator Associate):
- Prerequisites: While there are no formal prerequisites, it’s recommended to have at least six months of hands-on experience administering Azure. Familiarity with core Azure services, Azure workloads, security, and governance is beneficial.
- Recommended Skills: Experience with Azure Portal, command-line interfaces, operating systems, virtualization, cloud infrastructure, storage structures, and networking.
AZ-204 (Azure Developer Associate):
- Prerequisites: No mandatory prerequisites, but candidates should have 1-2 years of professional development experience and experience with Microsoft Azure.
- Recommended Skills: Proficiency in at least one Azure-supported programming language, such as C#, JavaScript, or Python. Familiarity with Azure SDKs, Azure CLI, Azure PowerShell, data storage options, data connections, APIs, app authentication and authorization, compute and container deployment, and debugging.
How Long Before You Need to Renew?
Microsoft certifications are valid for one year from the date of achievement. To maintain your certification status, you must renew it annually. The renewal process involves passing a free, online assessment on Microsoft Learn. You can take this assessment six months before your certification expires. The assessment is unproctored, open book, and focuses on the latest technology updates. Upon passing, your certification is extended by one year from the current expiration date.
Final Thoughts: Which Exam Should You Take?
If you’re deciding between AZ-104 and AZ-204, the right choice depends on where you see yourself in cloud computing. If you enjoy managing and configuring cloud infrastructure, handling networking, security, and storage, AZ-104 is the better fit. On the other hand, if you’re more interested in developing and deploying cloud applications, working with APIs, authentication, and Azure services, AZ-204 makes more sense. To maximize your chances of passing, explore Cert Empire’s Exam Dumps for both AZ-104 and AZ-204.
FAQs
Is AZ-104 easier than AZ-204?
AZ-104 is generally easier for IT professionals with admin or networking experience, while AZ-204 is harder for those without coding knowledge.
Can I take AZ-204 without any coding experience?
No, AZ-204 requires coding skills in languages like C#, Python, or JavaScript, making it tough for non-developers.
Which exam should I take first if I want to work in cloud computing?
If you’re from an IT background, start with AZ-104; if you’re into development, go for AZ-204.
Does AZ-104 or AZ-204 lead to better job security?
Both certifications are in demand, but AZ-104 suits those managing infrastructure, while AZ-204 is better for cloud developers.
How long does it take to prepare for each exam?
AZ-104: 1-2 months with IT experience, 3-4 months for beginners. AZ-204: 2-3 months for developers, longer for those new to Azure.
Are AZ-104 and AZ-204 certifications worth it in 2025?
Yes, both remain valuable as Azure adoption grows, with strong job demand and competitive salaries in cloud computing.
Last Updated on by Team CE
