AZ-700 Exam Overview
The Microsoft Certified: Azure Network Engineer Associate certification, also known as the AZ-700 exam, is designed for network engineers who want to validate their expertise in planning, implementing, and maintaining Azure networking solutions. This certification demonstrates your ability to manage the connectivity, security, and performance of Azure network solutions.
Key Details of the AZ-700 Exam:
- Exam Code: AZ-700
- Certification Name: Microsoft Certified: Azure Network Engineer Associate
- Exam Format: Multiple-choice, multiple-select, drag-and-drop, and case studies
- Number of Questions: Typically between 40-60 questions
- Exam Duration: 150 minutes
- Passing Score: 700 out of 1000
- Languages: English, Japanese, Chinese (Simplified), Korean
- Cost: $165 USD (may vary by country)
- Prerequisites: There are no formal prerequisites, but it’s recommended to have a basic understanding of networking concepts and experience with Azure administration.
Exam Content Areas:
The AZ-700 exam covers five main domains:
- Designing, Implementing, and Managing Hybrid Networking: Focuses on connecting Azure resources to on-premises networks.
- Designing and Implementing Core Networking Infrastructure: Involves creating and managing virtual networks and related resources.
- Securing Network Solutions: Emphasizes securing Azure networking solutions using firewalls, network security groups, and other tools.
- Designing and Implementing Network Monitoring: Covers monitoring and troubleshooting network performance and security.
- Designing and Implementing Network Routing: Deals with routing traffic in Azure and between Azure and on-premises networks.
Benefits of the AZ-700 Certification:
- Career Advancement: Demonstrates your expertise in Azure networking, making you a valuable asset to potential employers.
- Skill Validation: Provides a formal recognition of your skills and knowledge in Azure networking solutions.
- Higher Salary: Certified professionals often command higher salaries compared to their non-certified peers.
- Stay Current: Ensures you are up-to-date with the latest Azure networking technologies and best practices.
In summary, the AZ-700 certification is a valuable credential for network engineers looking to specialize in Azure networking. It covers essential areas such as hybrid networking, core networking infrastructure, security, monitoring, and routing. Achieving this certification can open up new career opportunities and enhance your professional credibility.
AZ-700 Exam Objectives
The AZ-700 exam evaluates a candidate’s ability to design, implement, and maintain Azure networking solutions. The exam objectives are categorized into five main domains, each representing a critical area of Azure networking. Understanding these objectives is essential for effective exam preparation.
1. Designing, Implementing, and Managing Hybrid Networking
Key Topics:
- Site-to-Site VPN: Configure and manage VPN gateways to connect on-premises networks to Azure virtual networks.
- ExpressRoute: Implement and manage Azure ExpressRoute for private, dedicated network connections.
- Virtual WAN: Design and configure Azure Virtual WAN to simplify large-scale branch connectivity.
Skills Measured:
- Designing hybrid network connectivity.
- Configuring VPN Gateway connections.
- Managing ExpressRoute and Virtual WAN.
2. Designing and Implementing Core Networking Infrastructure
Key Topics:
- Virtual Networks (VNets): Create and configure VNets, subnets, and address spaces.
- Network Security Groups (NSGs): Implement and manage NSGs to control inbound and outbound traffic.
- Azure DNS: Configure private and public DNS zones.
Skills Measured:
- Designing and implementing virtual networks.
- Configuring VNet peering.
- Managing DNS for internal and external name resolution.
3. Securing Network Solutions
Key Topics:
- Azure Firewall: Deploy and configure Azure Firewall to protect network resources.
- Web Application Firewall (WAF): Implement WAF on Azure Front Door and Azure Application Gateway.
- Network Security Best Practices: Apply security best practices to protect Azure resources.
Skills Measured:
- Designing and implementing network security solutions.
- Configuring Azure Firewall and WAF.
- Applying network security best practices.
4. Designing and Implementing Network Monitoring
Key Topics:
- Azure Monitor: Use Azure Monitor to collect and analyze metrics and logs.
- Network Performance Monitoring: Implement tools to monitor network performance and diagnose issues.
- Network Watcher: Configure and use Network Watcher for network diagnostics and monitoring.
Skills Measured:
- Designing and implementing network monitoring solutions.
- Configuring alerts and diagnostics.
- Analyzing network metrics and logs.
5. Designing and Implementing Network Routing
Key Topics:
- User-Defined Routes (UDRs): Create and configure UDRs to control traffic flow.
- Routing Table Management: Manage and configure routing tables for effective traffic management.
- Traffic Distribution: Design solutions for traffic distribution using Azure Load Balancer and Application Gateway.
Skills Measured:
- Designing and implementing routing solutions.
- Configuring UDRs and routing tables.
- Implementing traffic distribution solutions.
Understanding these objectives is crucial for your AZ-700 exam preparation. Each domain requires a solid grasp of Azure networking concepts and practical experience in implementing these solutions.
Tips for Preparing for the AZ-700 Exam
Successfully passing the AZ-700 exam requires a strategic approach to studying and preparation. Here are some tips to help you prepare effectively:
1. Understand the Exam Objectives
- Thoroughly Review the Exam Guide: Start by downloading and reviewing the official AZ-700 exam guide from the Microsoft website. Understand the key domains and skills measured.
- Focus on Core Topics: Prioritize your study on the main domains: Hybrid Networking, Core Networking Infrastructure, Network Security, Network Monitoring, and Network Routing.
2. Leverage Official Microsoft Learning Paths
- Microsoft Learn: Utilize the free learning paths and modules on Microsoft Learn. These resources are aligned with the exam objectives and provide interactive, hands-on learning experiences.
- Microsoft Documentation: Read the official Azure documentation to get detailed insights into various Azure networking services and best practices.
3. Take Advantage of Practice Tests
- MeasureUp and Whizlabs: Consider using reputable practice test providers like MeasureUp and Whizlabs. These platforms offer practice exams that mimic the actual test format and difficulty level.
- Identify Weak Areas: Use practice tests to identify your weak areas and focus your studies accordingly. Review the explanations for both correct and incorrect answers to enhance your understanding.
4. Hands-On Experience
- Create a Free Azure Account: Set up a free Azure account if you don’t already have one. This allows you to practice and experiment with Azure networking services.
- Lab Exercises: Perform lab exercises to reinforce your knowledge. Microsoft Learn and other learning platforms often include hands-on labs.
5. Join Study Groups and Online Communities
- Azure Study Groups: Join study groups on platforms like LinkedIn, Reddit, or dedicated forums. Engaging with peers can provide additional insights and study tips.
- Azure Community: Participate in the Azure community by attending webinars, meetups, and following Azure experts on social media.
6. Use Study Guides and Books
- Exam Reference Books: Consider purchasing exam reference books specifically designed for the AZ-700 exam. These books often include comprehensive coverage of exam topics, practice questions, and study tips.
- Digital Resources: Utilize e-books and online resources that provide updated information and study materials.
7. Schedule Regular Study Sessions
- Create a Study Plan: Develop a study schedule that covers all exam objectives. Allocate specific times for studying each topic and stick to your plan.
- Consistent Review: Regularly review what you have learned to reinforce your knowledge. Use flashcards or summary notes to aid in your revision.
8. Take Care of Yourself
- Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy lifestyle by getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals, and exercising regularly. A healthy body supports a sharp mind.
- Stress Management: Manage exam stress by practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
9. Schedule Your Exam
- Set a Deadline: Schedule your exam to set a concrete deadline for your preparation. This helps you stay focused and motivated.
- Exam Day Preparation: Ensure you are well-rested before the exam day. Arrive early at the exam center or set up your space if taking the exam online.
By following these tips and dedicating time and effort to your preparation, you can increase your chances of passing the AZ-700 exam and achieving your certification.
AZ-700 Top Learning Resources Online
Preparing for the AZ-700 exam requires access to high-quality learning resources. Here are some of the top online resources that can help you gain the knowledge and skills needed to pass the exam:
1. Microsoft Learn
- Interactive Learning Paths: Microsoft Learn offers a variety of learning paths specifically designed for the AZ-700 exam. These paths include interactive modules, hands-on labs, and practice exercises.
- Free Access: All the resources on Microsoft Learn are free, making it an excellent starting point for your exam preparation.
- Key Learning Paths:
- Design and Implement Hybrid Networking
- Design and Implement Core Networking Infrastructure
- Secure Network Solutions
- Design and Implement Network Monitoring
- Design and Implement Network Routing
2. Microsoft Documentation
- Official Documentation: The official Azure documentation provides in-depth information about Azure services and features. It’s essential for understanding the technical details and best practices.
- Service-Specific Guides: Explore documentation for specific services like Azure Virtual Network, Azure Firewall, Azure ExpressRoute, and Azure Load Balancer.
- Examples and Tutorials: The documentation often includes examples, tutorials, and step-by-step guides that can help you practice and understand complex concepts.
3. Pluralsight
- Comprehensive Courses: Pluralsight offers comprehensive courses that cover all the exam objectives. Courses are taught by industry experts and include hands-on labs.
- Skill Assessments: Take advantage of skill assessments to identify your strengths and areas for improvement.
- Key Courses:
- “Designing and Implementing Azure Networking Solutions (AZ-700)” by Tim Warner
- “Implementing and Managing Hybrid Networking in Azure” by Michael Teske
4. Udemy
- Exam Preparation Courses: Udemy provides a variety of courses specifically designed for the AZ-700 exam. These courses often include video lectures, quizzes, and practice exams.
- Affordable Options: Udemy frequently offers discounts, making it an affordable option for exam preparation.
- Popular Courses:
- “AZ-700: Designing and Implementing Microsoft Azure Networking Solutions” by Scott Duffy
- “Microsoft Azure AZ-700 Certification Exam Practice Tests” by Neeraj Kumar Singh
5. Whizlabs
- Practice Tests: Whizlabs offers extensive practice tests that simulate the actual exam environment. These tests help you gauge your readiness and identify areas that need further study.
- Detailed Explanations: Each question comes with detailed explanations, helping you understand the reasoning behind the correct answers.
- Additional Resources: Whizlabs also provides video courses and hands-on labs for comprehensive preparation.
6. MeasureUp
- Official Practice Tests: MeasureUp is an official provider of Microsoft certification practice tests. Their practice exams are designed to closely mimic the real exam format and difficulty level.
- Customizable Tests: You can customize practice tests to focus on specific areas or take timed exams to simulate the real test environment.
7. Exam Reference Books
- “Exam Ref AZ-700 Designing and Implementing Microsoft Azure Networking Solutions” by Charles Pluta: This official exam reference book provides comprehensive coverage of all exam objectives, practice questions, and real-world scenarios.
- Study Guides: Look for other reputable study guides and books that cover the AZ-700 exam content. These resources often include additional tips and strategies for exam success.
8. Online Forums and Study Groups
- Microsoft Tech Community: Join the Azure Network Engineer community on the Microsoft Tech Community forum. Engage in discussions, ask questions, and share resources with other exam candidates.
- Reddit and LinkedIn Groups: Participate in Reddit threads and LinkedIn groups dedicated to Azure certifications. These platforms provide a space to connect with peers, exchange study tips, and get advice from those who have already taken the exam.
Using these resources will help you build a strong foundation in Azure networking and prepare effectively for the AZ-700 exam.
Sample AZ-700 Exam Questions with Options and Answers
Practicing with sample questions is an excellent way to prepare for the AZ-700 exam. Below are some example questions that reflect the types of scenarios and topics you might encounter on the test.
Question 1: Configuring Site-to-Site VPN
Scenario: You need to connect your on-premises network to your Azure Virtual Network using a Site-to-Site VPN. Which of the following steps must you complete? (Choose three)
a) Configure a VPN gateway in Azure.
b) Create a local network gateway in Azure.
c) Configure a subnet gateway in Azure.
d) Establish a VPN connection between the VPN gateway and the local network gateway.
e) Create a virtual network peering.
Answer:
- a) Configure a VPN gateway in Azure.
- b) Create a local network gateway in Azure.
- d) Establish a VPN connection between the VPN gateway and the local network gateway.
Question 2: Implementing Network Security
Scenario: You need to secure your Azure virtual network by restricting inbound and outbound traffic to specific IP addresses. Which Azure service should you use?
a) Azure Firewall
b) Network Security Group (NSG)
c) Azure Traffic Manager
d) Azure Application Gateway
Answer:
- b) Network Security Group (NSG)
Question 3: Designing Hybrid Connectivity
Scenario: Your company requires a high-throughput, low-latency connection between its on-premises data center and Azure. Which service should you implement?
a) Site-to-Site VPN
b) Point-to-Site VPN
c) Azure Virtual WAN
d) Azure ExpressRoute
Answer:
- d) Azure ExpressRoute
Question 4: Monitoring Network Performance
Scenario: You want to monitor and diagnose network issues in your Azure environment. Which tool should you use to achieve this?
a) Azure Monitor
b) Azure Security Center
c) Network Watcher
d) Azure Cost Management
Answer:
- c) Network Watcher
Question 5: Implementing Routing
Scenario: You need to ensure that traffic from your Azure virtual network is routed to your on-premises network. Which Azure feature should you configure?
a) User-Defined Routes (UDRs)
b) Azure Load Balancer
c) Azure Traffic Manager
d) Azure DDoS Protection
Answer:
- a) User-Defined Routes (UDRs)
Question 6: Using Azure DNS
Scenario: Your organization needs to manage DNS records for your domain within Azure. Which Azure service should you use?
a) Azure DNS
b) Azure Active Directory
c) Azure Bastion
d) Azure DevOps
Answer:
- a) Azure DNS
Question 7: Configuring Azure Firewall
Scenario: You are tasked with setting up an Azure Firewall to control outbound traffic from your virtual network. Which of the following actions should you take? (Choose two)
a) Deploy an Azure Firewall in a dedicated subnet.
b) Configure rules to allow or deny outbound traffic.
c) Assign the firewall to a specific virtual machine.
d) Enable Traffic Analytics for the firewall.
Answer:
- a) Deploy an Azure Firewall in a dedicated subnet.
- b) Configure rules to allow or deny outbound traffic.
Question 8: Implementing Load Balancing
Scenario: You need to distribute traffic evenly across multiple virtual machines in different availability zones. Which Azure service should you use?
a) Azure Load Balancer
b) Azure Traffic Manager
c) Azure Application Gateway
d) Azure Front Door
Answer:
- a) Azure Load Balancer
These sample questions cover various aspects of Azure networking, including VPN configuration, network security, hybrid connectivity, network monitoring, routing, DNS management, firewall configuration, and load balancing. Reviewing and practicing with these types of questions will help you become more familiar with the exam format and improve your chances of success.
