Microsoft Learn: Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) training

What it is

This is Microsoft's official training for Azure Fundamentals, published on Microsoft Learn as course AZ-900T00, "Introduction to Cloud Infrastructure". The self-paced version is free and made of three learning paths that match the three areas of the AZ-900 exam: describe cloud concepts, describe Azure architecture and services, and describe Azure management and governance. Microsoft also runs it as a one-day instructor-led course through training partners, which is paid.

Who it is for

It is for anyone starting with Azure, including students with no cloud background. Microsoft describes the audience as people just beginning to work with Azure who want both an overview of the offerings and hands-on experience. It uses the Azure portal and the command-line interface and does not require scripting skills.

What you learn

• Cloud concepts: IaaS, PaaS and SaaS, the shared responsibility model, public, private and hybrid cloud, and consumption-based pricing.
• Azure architecture: regions, availability zones, subscriptions, management groups and resource groups.
• Core services: virtual machines, containers and functions, virtual networks and DNS, storage accounts and their tiers, and Microsoft Entra ID for identity.
• Management and governance: cost management, tags, Azure Policy, resource locks, and tools such as the portal, Azure CLI, Cloud Shell and ARM templates.

How long it takes

Microsoft lists the instructor-led version as one day. Self-paced learners typically spread the three paths over a week or two alongside hands-on practice. Do the exercises rather than only reading them, because those habits carry into AZ-104.

Free or paid

The self-paced learning paths are free with a Microsoft account. Some modules offer free sandboxes that let you create resources without your own subscription. The AZ-900 exam itself is paid and priced by country; students can also schedule through Certiport.

What you can do after it

You will be able to explain Azure's building blocks and read architecture diagrams with confidence, and you will be ready to sit AZ-900 if you want the certification. The natural next step for a cloud engineering path is the Azure Administrator (AZ-104) training, where you build and secure these services yourself.

Common questions

Do I need AZ-900 before AZ-104? No. It is optional. If you are comfortable with cloud basics, you can go straight to AZ-104.

Does the Azure Fundamentals certification expire? No. Microsoft states that fundamentals certifications do not expire.