The free-first plan
Use free study to prove what you need
Start with Microsoft Learn. AZ-104 has a substantial official free path, but credible preparation also requires controlled Azure administration work and careful cost cleanup.
Build operating-system, networking, server, virtualization, identity, and command-line foundations first if you cannot yet explain how an Azure resource is addressed, authorized, deployed, and monitored.
Step 1
Follow the official sequence
Start with the current AZ-104 study guide and Microsoft Learn prerequisites, then work through identity, storage, compute, networking, and monitoring.
Step 2
Administer, do not only watch
Reproduce the tasks with the portal and at least one command-line or infrastructure-as-code method. Record what each change does and how you would reverse it.
Step 3
Use the practice assessment
Use Microsoft’s free assessment to locate weak domains, then return to Learn modules, documentation, and lab work before considering paid instruction.
Follow the official AZ-104 learning paths
Microsoft lists Azure fundamentals in cloud concepts, architecture and services, and management and governance as learning-path prerequisites. Start with the Azure administrator prerequisites, including Cloud Shell and ARM templates, then use the five subject paths below.
- Identity and governance — Work with identities, access controls, subscriptions and governance.
- Storage — Configure storage accounts and access to Azure storage services.
- Compute — Deploy and configure virtual machines, containers and web apps.
- Virtual networks — Configure connectivity, network protection, application delivery and monitoring.
- Monitoring and backup — Monitor resources and practice backup and recovery.
The self-directed modules and learning paths are free to read. Azure exercises require a subscription, and resource charges may apply; Microsoft Learn sandboxes are no longer available. Confirm your permitted practice environment and cleanup plan before deploying resources.
This content access does not establish an included exam voucher, practice-test license, live instruction, personal feedback or a supported lab. Completion time depends on your background and practice; the classroom course duration is not a self-study estimate.
If you want training help, name the path you need to apply and whether you need a practice environment, feedback or a fixed schedule. You can ask without finishing the free series.
Series and access sources observed 2026-10-12: Microsoft AZ-104 course syllabus · Microsoft Learn access FAQ.
Practical work to keep
In an Azure subscription you are authorized to manage, manage identities and access, deploy storage and compute, configure a virtual network, apply governance, create monitoring or alerting, and record the configuration and cleanup steps. Use budgets and remove billable resources when finished.
When paid training is worth considering
Pay when guided Azure labs, instructor feedback, accessibility support, team consistency, or a fixed employer deadline solves a named problem. Do not pay simply to replace Microsoft Learn with another set of lectures.
Reviewed 2026-08-26. If you have confirmed the need and want help comparing actual offerings, ask Learnerside for training help. Nothing is sent to a provider automatically.