Microsoft Azure Administrator (AZ-104) Exam Prep: Domains, Labs, and Mock Tests
13 Jul 2026 · 10 min read
The Microsoft Azure Administrator (AZ-104) exam validates day-to-day operational skills—deploying resources, securing identities, configuring networking, and monitoring workloads.
Prep should feel like doing the job in a sandbox, reinforced by scenario-heavy mock tests.
Key takeaways
- AZ-104 is task-oriented—expect “what should you configure first?” scenarios.
- Identity (Entra ID) and RBAC appear throughout; do not silo them as one chapter.
- Storage and networking questions often combine with security constraints.
- Hands-on labs beat passive video for retention at this level.
- Use timed AZ-104 practice to train decision speed.
Domain-weighted study plan
Typical skill areas include:
- Manage Azure identities and governance
- Implement and manage storage
- Deploy and manage Azure compute resources
- Configure and manage virtual networking
- Monitor and maintain Azure resources
Assign two weeks minimum to weak domains identified by your first mock—not equal time to every topic.
Lab ideas (free tier friendly)
- Create resource groups with tags and locks
- Deploy VM with NIC, NSG, and public/private IP patterns
- Configure storage accounts with access tiers and lifecycle rules
- Set up diagnostic settings and alerts on a test VM
- Practice backup and restore for a file share or VM
Break configurations intentionally and fix them—exam scenarios often describe misconfiguration symptoms.
Mock test cadence
| Week | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Diagnostic mock + lab setup |
| 2–4 | Domain labs + mini-mocks |
| 5–6 | Full timed mocks every 5–7 days |
| 7 | Readiness mock; schedule if stable |
Frequently asked questions
AZ-104 vs AZ-900—can I skip fundamentals?
Experienced admins often go straight to AZ-104; newcomers benefit from AZ-900 first.
Is the exam purely multiple choice?
Microsoft uses varied item types including scenarios and labs in some delivery formats—check current exam guide for your sitting.
How important are PowerShell and CLI?
Know common tasks in both portal and command line; scenarios may specify a management method.
What score on practice exams indicates readiness?
Many candidates aim for consistent 80%+ on quality timed mocks with no domain below ~70%.
Begin AZ-104 prep with measurement
Run a baseline Azure Administrator practice exam, list your three weakest domains, and schedule labs before your second mock.
