Overview

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Build a working knowledge of the core services that power Microsoft Azure: compute, networking, storage, and identity and security. This course walks you through Azure's compute options—virtual machines, scale sets, App Services, containers, and Functions—so you can compare them and choose the right fit for a workload. You'll then explore Azure networking, comparing VPN Gateway and ExpressRoute for on-premises connectivity and learning how Azure DNS resolves names across your resources. From there, you'll build a storage strategy: choosing redundancy options, access tiers, and migration tools like Azure Migrate and Azure Data Box. The course closes with identity and security. You'll learn how Microsoft Entra ID handles authentication and authorization, apply multi-factor authentication and conditional access, and use role-based access control alongside Zero Trust and defense-in-depth principles to reduce risk. Role-play scenarios and graded assignments in every module let you practice these decisions in realistic contexts. Who this is for: Systems administrators, network engineers, developers, and cloud enthusiasts who want practical knowledge of provisioning Azure infrastructure and securing enterprise workloads. Basic familiarity with IT or networking concepts is helpful but not required.

Syllabus

Azure Compute & Container Services
- This module surveys the main Azure compute options — virtual machines and scale sets, App Services, container services, and serverless Azure Functions — and how they differ in control, management overhead, and scaling. You will learn how to weigh these trade-offs against cost and maintenance. By the end, you will be able to compare Azure compute services and select the most appropriate option for a given workload.
Azure Virtual Networking & Connectivity
- This module introduces Azure networking and the options for connecting resources to each other and to on-premises environments. You will learn the purpose of virtual networks, compare VPN Gateway and ExpressRoute, and understand the role of Azure DNS in name resolution. By the end, you will be able to recommend an appropriate, secure connectivity solution for linking an on-premises network to Azure based on a given scenario's requirements.
Azure Storage & Data Management
- This module covers Azure storage and how to manage data cost-effectively and durably. You will learn about storage accounts and core storage services, compare redundancy options, choose appropriate access tiers for different data patterns, and identify the right migration tools such as Azure Migrate and Azure Data Box. By the end, you will be able to design a storage, redundancy, tiering, and migration strategy that balances cost, durability, and practical constraints.
Azure Core Infrastructure & Security Services
- This module focuses on securing identity and access in Azure. You will learn the role of Microsoft Entra ID, the difference between authentication and authorization, and protective mechanisms including Multi-Factor Authentication, Conditional Access, and Role-Based Access Control. You will also explore modern security models such as Zero Trust and Defense in Depth and the role of Microsoft Defender for Cloud. By the end, you will be able to recommend a layered identity and access strategy that reduces risk and limits the impact of compromised accounts.