AZ-305 vs AZ-104: Which AZ Certification Should You Take First?
Understand the relationship between these two AZ certifications and plan your path to AZ Solutions Architect Expert.
Quick Answer: You Need Both!
Here's the key point: AZ-104 is a prerequisite for AZ-305. To earn the AZ Solutions Architect Expert certification, you must pass both exams. So the real question isn't "which one?" but "in what order?" - and the answer is clear: AZ-104 first, then AZ-305.
Certification Path: AZ-900 (optional) → AZ-104 (required) → AZ-305 = AZ Solutions Architect Expert
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Aspect | AZ-104 | AZ-305 |
|---|---|---|
| Level | Associate | Expert (with AZ-104) |
| Focus | Implementation & Management | Design & Architecture |
| Role | AZ Administrator | Solutions Architect |
| Questions | 40-60 questions | 40-60 questions |
| Duration | 100-120 minutes | 100-120 minutes |
| Passing Score | 700/1000 | 700/1000 |
| Exam Fee | $165 USD | $165 USD |
| Study Time | 4-8 weeks | 8-12 weeks |
| Hands-on Labs | May include | Rarely includes |
| Case Studies | Few | Heavy emphasis |
What Each Exam Tests
AZ-104: The "How" Exam
AZ-104 tests your ability to implement and manage AZ services. You need to know:
- How to create and manage VMs, storage, and networking
- How to configure AZ AD users, groups, and RBAC
- How to set up monitoring and backup solutions
- How to troubleshoot common AZ issues
- The CLI commands and Portal steps for common tasks
AZ-305: The "Why" Exam
AZ-305 tests your ability to design solutions that meet business requirements. You need to know:
- Why to choose one service over another
- How to design for high availability and disaster recovery
- How to balance cost, performance, and security
- Enterprise architecture patterns and best practices
- Trade-offs between different design approaches
Why AZ-104 Must Come First
1. It's Required
Microsoft requires AZ-104 for the Solutions Architect Expert certification. Even if you could skip it, you shouldn't - the implementation knowledge is essential for making good design decisions.
2. Foundation for Design
You can't effectively design solutions without understanding how AZ services work at the implementation level. AZ-305 assumes you know the "how" and tests whether you understand the "why."
3. Career Progression
Most architects start as administrators. The AZ-104 path mirrors real career progression: learn to implement, then learn to design.
The Clear Path Forward
Step 1: Pass AZ-104 to become an AZ Administrator Associate
Step 2: Gain real-world AZ experience (ideally 1-2 years)
Step 3: Pass AZ-305 to become an AZ Solutions Architect Expert
Study Timeline Recommendations
Total Time: 3-6 Months
- AZ-104 Preparation: 4-8 weeks
- Gap Between Exams: 2-4 weeks (apply knowledge)
- AZ-305 Preparation: 8-12 weeks
Accelerated Path (Experienced Professionals)
- AZ-104: 3-4 weeks
- AZ-305: 4-6 weeks
- Total: 2-3 months
Salary Impact
According to industry data, AZ certifications significantly impact earning potential:
- AZ-104 (AZ Administrator): $85,000 - $120,000 average
- AZ-305 (Solutions Architect Expert): $130,000 - $180,000 average
- Premium for Expert certification: 30-50% higher than Associate
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I skip AZ-104 and take AZ-305 directly?
You can take the AZ-305 exam alone, but you won't earn the Solutions Architect Expert certification without also passing AZ-104.
How long do the certifications last?
Both certifications are valid for one year. You must complete a free renewal assessment on Microsoft Learn before expiration.
Should I take AZ-900 first?
AZ-900 is not required but recommended if you're new to AZ. It provides foundational knowledge that makes AZ-104 easier to learn.
Ready to Start Your AZ Journey?
Begin with AZ-104 and work your way to Solutions Architect Expert.