Microsoft Azure Fundamentals Certification and Beyond: A complete AZ-900 exam guide with online mock exams and hands-on activities

Crack the updated AZ-900 (2026) and build real-world cloud skills with this new edition that goes beyond fundamentals through hands-on labs, Zero Trust security, and practical Azure use cases for modern careers.

Endorsements

“The third edition places Azure fundamentals in the context of how the cloud is actually used today. The content is more conversational, less mechanical, and intentionally less focused on “exam style answers”. While it remains an excellent guide for AZ 900 preparation, it is equally written for anyone seeking cloud literacy.

Peter De Tender, Lead Microsoft Technical Trainer

Fully aligned with the January 2026 AZ-900 skills update, the book goes beyond exam preparation to build a strong understanding of Azure through real-world examples, practical insights, hands-on labs, mock exams, and study tools.

Elkhan Yusubov, Director of Cloud Infrastructure at T-REX Solutions, LLC, and Founder of #CloudMarathoner

Key Features Complete coverage of AZ-900 skills measured, aligned with the January 2026 exam update Beginner-friendly explanations with real-world Azure scenarios and visual, analogy driven learning Access to online mock exams, flashcards, exam timers, and hands-on labs for effective preparation Book Description Microsoft Azure Fundamentals Certification and Beyond, Third Edition, is a complete and up-to-date guide aligned with the January 2026 AZ-900 skills-measured update.

This book covers cloud concepts, Azure architecture, core services, security, governance, cost management, deployment, and monitoring making it ideal for beginners and career switchers. Beyond exam preparation, it introduces real-world Azure scenarios and multi-cloud awareness, helping you see how Azure fits into modern IT environments.

To reinforce learning, the book includes access to Packt’s interactive online platform with mock exams, practice tests, flashcards, exam timers, and hands-on labs. By the end, you’ll have a strong foundation in Azure fundamentals, confidence in tackling the AZ-900 exam, and practical knowledge to take your first steps into cloud-focused roles.

What you will learn Understand core cloud computing concepts and delivery models Work with Azure compute, storage, and networking services Apply identity, security, and Zero Trust principles in Azure Manage costs, governance, and compliance effectively Deploy and manage resources using Azure tools and templates Monitor health, performance, and reliability in Azure Prepare confidently for the AZ-900 certification exam Who this book is for This book is for individuals preparing for the Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) certification exam and those looking to build a strong foundation in cloud computing with Azure. It is suitable for IT professionals, students, and business users seeking to understand Azure services, architecture, and management. No prior cloud experience is required, making it ideal for beginners, while those with some technical background can use it to reinforce their knowledge and prepare for certification.

Table of Contents Introduction to Cloud Computing The Benefits of Using Cloud Services Azure Core Architectural Components Azure Compute Services Azure Storage Services Azure Network Services Azure Identity and Access Azure Security Azure Cost Management Azure Governance and Compliance Azure Resource Deployment and Management Azure Monitoring Tools