If you’re hoping to become a certified Azure network engineer, the AZ-700 exam is the last step before you get your certification! This article will tell you everything you need to know about preparing and passing this challenging test. Keep reading to learn how!
Why take the exam?
The Azure Networking exam is an important validation of your skills and knowledge around designing, implementing, maintaining, and managing Azure networking solutions. To advance your career in cloud solutions development, you need to demonstrate a certain level of competence around networking. Passing this exam will prove that you have what it takes to be a certified Microsoft partner. It’s also a stepping stone on your way toward Microsoft’s MCSD: Cloud Platform & Infrastructure credential. Keep reading if you want more information about how it all works!
The structure of the exam
The exam is conducted in two parts: Section I, which lasts 4 hours and contains 70 multiple choice questions; and Section II, which lasts 2 hours and 30 minutes and consists of 8 fill-in questions with single correct answer. The score is based on 70% of section I correct answers with a minimum passing score of 350 out of 500 points. Section II scored at 20% out of 800 points based on a cumulative total across all questions. You can earn up to 400 points. It’s important to remember that pass/fail decisions are made only by Microsoft.
What you need to know before starting your studies
Before diving into your studies, make sure you know what’s required of you—and how much time it will take. You don’t want to start studying a week before your exam; that’s just not enough time. Ideally, you want at least one month to study and prepare, but two is better (particularly if you can split up your study sessions). If possible, enroll in an Azure training course that includes lab exercises and practice tests as part of its instruction. Even if there isn’t a lab available, self-study using technical materials provided by Microsoft can help boost your skills and confidence.
Recommendations on how to study effectively
There are a couple of things you should do and not do when preparing for an exam. The most important thing is to have a plan. Don’t just read whatever you feel like that day. Don’t start a topic, set it aside and then switch over to something else entirely; don’t study something because you think it will be on the test but then forget about it completely after seeing that it wasn’t included in practice exams.
Tips on Passing the Exam
By far, one of your biggest considerations should be how much time you have to study and how much work experience you already have. Both are huge factors in how prepared you’ll be—and thus how well you’ll perform. If a lot of time has passed since your last job or if you’re coming from another industry, start reading about basic networking and IT principles before starting study guides. You’ll find that it will help provide context when studying, helping with retention and overall understanding. When choosing what materials to buy (whether online or print), try to find ones that offer a mix of conceptual, practical and hands-on learning material rather than just long lists of facts or abstracted technical papers.
The Final Takeaways
Microsoft certification, including Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) and MCSA: Windows Server 2012 certification—is a must have in today’s IT job market. These certifications not only validate that you have a solid grasp of all things server-side, but they also let your future employers know that you’re ready to take on some serious projects without too much instruction or oversight. Other benefits include added credibility and pay increases at certain levels; according to Microsoft , certified employees make an average $14,000 more per year than noncertified workers.
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