7 Career Paths the Introduction the Cloud Infrastructure (AZ-900) Exam Can Prepare You For

If you want to get started in cloud computing, studying for the AZ-900 exam is a great place to start. It covers the fundamentals needed to begin leveraging the cloud and positions you to specialize further down the road.

However, there have been recent changes to the test (and the name of the certification) that may have you wondering whether it's the right fit for you. 

With that in mind, let's explore some career paths that the AZ-900 can prepare you for. First, we'll briefly cover what the AZ-900 exam is and why it's a strong introduction to cloud computing. Here is what you need to know.

Note: Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) is now branded as Introduction to Cloud Infrastructure

Is the AZ-900 a Good Exam if I am New to IT?

The AZ-900 forms part of the wider Microsoft Azure Fundamentals certification. The AZ-900 is beneficial for both technical and non-technical users responsible for the Azure platform, including those in remote roles. It doesn’t go into excessive technical detail and provides learners with a solid foundation in cloud computing.

You will be able to demonstrate to others that you understand basic cloud services as they relate to Microsoft Azure. 

See also: How to Pass the AZ-900 Exam.

Updates to the AZ-900 

In October 2025, Microsoft quietly announced it would rename the AZ-900 Microsoft Azure Fundamentals exam to Introduction to Cloud Infrastructure. The exam retains the AZ-900 marker and many of the same course requirements, but it has narrowed its focus. 

Microsoft says the name change is designed to help learners understand what the course covers and how it fits into their overall learning path. 

What Does the AZ-900 Exam Cover Now?

As of January 14, 2026, the AZ-900 exam is organized into three major sections. Together, they’re designed to give you a high-level understanding of how cloud computing works without requiring hands-on engineering experience. Here's how the different sections break down: 

Describe Cloud Concepts (25–30%)

This section lays the groundwork. You’ll learn what cloud computing actually is and why organizations use it in the first place. Expect questions that test your understanding of cloud models (public, private, and hybrid), service types like IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS, and how pricing works in a consumption-based model.

Describe Azure Architecture and Services (35–40%)

This is the largest portion of the exam and where Azure-specific knowledge really comes into play. You won’t be configuring anything, but you will need to recognize how Azure is structured and what its core services do.

That includes understanding regions, availability zones, subscriptions, and resource groups, as well as common compute, networking, and storage options. You’ll also be introduced to identity and access concepts, including Microsoft Entra ID, role-based access control (RBAC), and basic security models such as Zero Trust and defense-in-depth.

Describe Azure Management and Governance (30–35%)

The final section focuses on how Azure environments are monitored, governed, and controlled once they’re running. This includes cost management basics, tools like Azure Policy and resource locks, and concepts like infrastructure as code and ARM templates. You’ll also see questions about how administrators monitor performance and reliability using tools such as Azure Monitor, Service Health, and Azure Advisor.  

What Career Paths Does AZ-900 Help Me Prepare for?

There are many career paths you can pursue after passing the AZ-900, including these seven promising choices:

1. Azure Administrator

Azure administrators ensure Azure resources are available and performing well. They are responsible for the resources that make clouds run smoothly. After completing AZ-900 and Azure Fundamentals, consider taking AZ-104 (Microsoft Azure Administrator) to further strengthen your knowledge. 

2. Cloud Support Associate

Cloud Support Associates are highly skilled and manage duties across data management, networks, databases, information security, and some programming. The AZ-900 builds a solid understanding of core cloud concepts that will help you prepare for this role. 

3. Cloud Solutions Architect

Cloud Solutions Architects design and build the infrastructure needed to support business applications and systems. While this role requires more expertise than the AZ-900 covers, the skills learned in this entry-level exam can pave the way for further study. For example, the AZ-305 (Designing Microsoft Azure Infrastructure Solutions) is an intermediate certification that covers designing and managing cloud infrastructure. 

4. Cloud Developer

A cloud developer builds software applications specifically for cloud-based systems. This includes websites, tools, programs, and applications. The AZ-900 helps you fully understand the fundamentals of Azure. 

To further your education, AZ-204 (Developing Solutions for Microsoft Azure) teaches you to navigate and use the Azure platform and build native applications that are fast and secure.

5. Cloud Support Engineer

Cloud support engineers keep systems running day to day and monitor resources and vital systems. They need to have an intimate knowledge of how systems impact one another and the symptoms of deeper issues. The AZ-104 (Microsoft Azure Administrator) is also very useful for this role.

6. Cloud Operations/Data Center Technician

For hybrid solutions, the equipment requires a physical workload. Data center technicians are responsible for maintaining server integrity, network performance, and ensuring that all systems are operating with sufficient headroom. 

7. Cloud Security Engineer

A Cloud Security Engineer is responsible for identifying and dealing with threats to cloud systems and related infrastructure. They develop tools and procedures and implement cloud-based systems to protect against security threats and mitigate cyberattacks. 

The AZ-500 (Microsoft Azure Security Technologies) is the certification you should pursue once you have established the fundamental Azure skills taught in the AZ-900.

Start Preparing for the AZ-900 Introduction to Cloud Infrastructure Today

If you want a career in cloud computing, we highly recommend starting with the AZ-900 exam. It provides a solid foundation of knowledge you’ll need to get started. Additionally, discover the top reasons to pursue Microsoft Azure certification to understand its long-term career benefits.

When you are ready, prepare with our Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals - AZ-900 - Microsoft Azure Certification Training, which goes step-by-step through the AZ-900 exam objectives.

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