I’ve recently been working through several Microsoft Applied Skills credentials as part of my preparation for the AZ-104 exam. I also wanted to challenge myself and see whether I’m genuinely comfortable with the specific areas these labs cover and overall, I’m genuinely impressed.
What are Microsoft Applied Skills? #
Microsoft Applied Skills are verifiable micro-credentials that certify your ability to apply skills in real-world Azure scenarios.
Instead of answering multiple-choice questions, you’re tested on your ability to actually implement Azure solutions in a working environment.
How do they work? #
Rather than a written exam, you’re given access to a hosted virtual lab environment with a scenario and a list of tasks you must complete.
There are no step-by-step instructions. It’s up to you to use your practical knowledge to configure, design, troubleshoot, or implement whatever the scenario requires.
For example, one of my labs involved securing Azure storage and ensuring only specific identities and networks could access certain containers — a task that mirrors real production work.
Have I found any benefits? #
Absolutely. Because these are fully practical and unguided, they’re far more engaging than reading through documentation or answering exam-style questions. They’re also free, and passing each one gives you a verifiable digital credential you can share or display.
So far, I’ve completed:
- Microsoft Applied Skills: Configure secure access to your workloads using Azure networking
- Microsoft Applied Skills: Get started with identities and access using Microsoft Entra
- Microsoft Applied Skills: Secure storage for Azure Files and Azure Blob Storage
- Microsoft Applied Skills: Deploy and configure Azure Monitor
And I plan to complete as many as possible before sitting the AZ-104 exam.
Overall, these Applied Skills credentials are some of the most realistic, hands-on learning opportunities you can get without needing your own Azure subscription. If you’re preparing for AZ-104 or just want practical experience with Azure services, they’re absolutely worth doing.