If you’re looking to break into tech or simply want to level up your skills, Microsoft certifications can offer a solid foundation. These certifications are recognized globally, and they can boost your career in various fields like cloud computing, cybersecurity, data analysis, and productivity. But let’s be real: not all certifications are created equal. Some are beginner-friendly, while others are more advanced and require more experience. If you’re new to tech or want a smooth entry into the world of Microsoft, let’s explore the easiest certifications that can help you kick-start your career.
Why Microsoft Certifications Matter
Before we dive into the specifics, let’s take a moment to talk about why these certifications are so valuable. Microsoft has become a cornerstone in the tech world, especially with its Azure platform, Office 365, and various enterprise solutions. Employers know that a Microsoft certification shows you have a certain level of expertise, which makes you a reliable candidate for any tech-related position. Whether you’re an aspiring IT professional or someone looking to enhance their resume, Microsoft certifications are a good way to gain recognition and open up opportunities.
So, what makes a certification “easy”? The easiest ones are typically the ones that require less prior knowledge, shorter study times and are beginner-friendly in terms of the skills they teach. It’s about starting small but building a solid foundation that you can expand on. Let’s check out the easiest Microsoft certifications for someone who’s just getting started.
1. Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)
Let’s kick things off with the Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) certification. This is the perfect starting point if you’re keen on getting into cloud computing, especially with Microsoft Azure.
What’s Covered?
This cert introduces you to the basics of cloud computing, Azure services, and how businesses use them. It doesn’t dive deep into technicalities, making it one of the best certs for beginners. If you can wrap your head around the core concepts, you’re good to go.
Why It’s Easy:
For starters, you don’t need any prior cloud experience to pass the AZ-900 exam. It’s more about understanding fundamental cloud concepts, like what the cloud is, how to secure data, and how Azure compares to other cloud platforms. The exam is straightforward, and the preparation material is free (Microsoft Learn is your best friend here).
How to Prepare:
You can take advantage of free Microsoft Learn modules that cover everything from cloud concepts to Azure’s different services. Studying the exam objectives and doing practice tests will also help solidify your knowledge.
2. Microsoft Certified: Microsoft 365 Fundamentals (MS-900)
Next up is Microsoft 365 Fundamentals (MS-900). If you’re already familiar with Microsoft Office apps (Word, Excel, etc.), this certification will feel like a breeze. The MS-900 cert focuses on Microsoft 365, including its services, productivity tools, and cloud-based features.
What’s Covered?
You’ll learn about the cloud environment within Microsoft 365, including security and compliance features. It also covers basic identity management concepts, and how businesses use Microsoft 365 to enable collaboration, teamwork, and remote work.
Why It’s Easy:
The MS-900 is perfect for beginners, especially those who already use Microsoft 365 in their daily lives. You don’t need to be an expert; just basic knowledge of cloud computing and Office products will take you a long way. It’s an entry-level cert, and it’s designed for those who want to break into the world of business IT or cloud computing without diving too deep into technical complexities.
How to Prepare:
There are free courses on Microsoft Learn, but also check out videos, quizzes, and other practice materials. It’s important to familiarize yourself with Microsoft 365 features like Exchange, OneDrive, and Teams.
3. Microsoft Certified: Power Platform Fundamentals (PL-900)
If you’re someone who enjoys automation and making business processes more efficient, the Power Platform Fundamentals (PL-900) might be the best place to start. Microsoft Power Platform is all about automating business workflows, creating custom apps, and analyzing data—all without needing to code.
What’s Covered?
The PL-900 exam focuses on the key tools within Microsoft Power Platform: Power Apps, Power BI, Power Automate, and Power Virtual Agents. It’s designed to introduce you to low-code/no-code business applications.
Why It’s Easy:
The PL-900 doesn’t require advanced technical knowledge. It’s beginner-friendly and focuses on the capabilities of Power Platform tools, which are intuitive and easy to use. You won’t need to be a developer to succeed in this cert, making it ideal for non-technical professionals who want to upskill in automation and business intelligence.
How to Prepare:
Microsoft Learn offers free modules that explain the ins and outs of Power Platform. Try creating a few Power BI reports or automating a process with Power Automate to get a hands-on feel for the platform.
4. Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Fundamentals (AI-900)
If you’re interested in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), then the Azure AI Fundamentals (AI-900) is the perfect starting point. The cert covers the basics of AI, its applications, and how Azure implements AI and ML.
What’s Covered?
This certification covers AI concepts, cloud-based AI services in Azure, and common machine learning algorithms. You’ll also get familiar with how to implement AI solutions with Azure Cognitive Services.
Why It’s Easy:
It’s an entry-level cert, and it’s tailored to those who are just dipping their toes into AI. The exam covers the basics, which means you don’t need a strong technical background. It’s all about understanding the potential of AI and how businesses are using it today.
How to Prepare:
Microsoft Learn provides excellent materials for this exam. You can start by learning about the different Azure AI services like Azure Machine Learning and Cognitive Services, then do practice exams to assess your progress.
5. Microsoft Certified: Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals (SC-900)
The SC-900 certification is perfect for those who are curious about cybersecurity and compliance but don’t want to dive into super technical areas right away. This cert focuses on security concepts within the Microsoft ecosystem, particularly Azure and Microsoft 365.
What’s Covered?
The SC-900 exam covers topics like security principles, cloud security, compliance, and identity management. It helps you understand how Microsoft tools help organizations keep data secure and comply with regulations.
Why It’s Easy:
The SC-900 is another beginner-level certification, and you don’t need to be a cybersecurity expert. It’s more about understanding the landscape of security, compliance, and identity management, which is essential for anyone in IT or business operations.
How to Prepare:
Take advantage of free resources on Microsoft Learn, and try to apply what you learn in real-world scenarios. For example, get familiar with Azure Active Directory or the security features in Microsoft 365.
6. Microsoft Certified: Dynamics 365 Fundamentals (MB-910)
The Dynamics 365 Fundamentals (MB-910) certification is a solid choice if you’re interested in Customer Relationship Management (CRM) or Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP). Dynamics 365 is Microsoft’s solution for managing business processes and customer interactions.
What’s Covered?
The exam focuses on the capabilities of Dynamics 365, including how it helps with sales, marketing, customer service, and more. You’ll get an understanding of both CRM and ERP systems and how businesses use Dynamics 365 to improve their processes.
Why It’s Easy:
This certification is easy to start if you’re already familiar with business applications or CRM tools. Dynamics 365 is user-friendly, and the exam is designed for those who are new to the platform, making it a great introduction to enterprise applications.
How to Prepare:
Microsoft Learn offers free study paths for Dynamics 365. Try to get familiar with the user interface of Dynamics 365 and explore how it can be used to streamline business operations.
7. Microsoft Certified: Windows Server Hybrid Administrator Associate (AZ-800)
For those looking to get into server management, the Windows Server Hybrid Administrator Associate (AZ-800) certification is an excellent option. It covers managing Windows Server in hybrid environments, meaning you’ll work with both on-premises and cloud systems.
What’s Covered?
The AZ-800 exam covers how to manage servers, storage, and virtual machines, as well as integrating hybrid workloads. It’s aimed at admins who want to learn how to manage both local and cloud-based resources.
Why It’s Easy:
It’s perfect for beginners who are looking to get into IT administration. The exam doesn’t go too deep into advanced networking or server management topics, making it accessible for new admins.
How to Prepare:
Focus on Windows Server concepts, hybrid environments, and how they integrate with Azure. Practice managing virtual machines and servers, and use Microsoft’s study materials for a structured approach.
8. Microsoft Certified: Excel Associate (Microsoft Office Specialist) (MO-200)
If you’re comfortable working with spreadsheets and want to prove your Excel skills, the Excel Associate (MO-200) cert is for you. This certification shows that you have a strong understanding of Excel and can use it efficiently for business tasks.
What’s Covered?
The MO-200 exam focuses on features like data analysis, creating charts, working with tables, and more. If you’re already familiar with Excel basics, this cert will help you take your skills to the next level.
Why It’s Easy:
Excel is widely used in business, and if you’re already proficient with it, this certification won’t be too difficult. It’s focused on practical skills and real-world applications, so you won’t need a lot of technical expertise.
How to Prepare:
Microsoft offers practice tests and materials for the MO-200 exam. You can also brush up on Excel features like formulas, charts, and pivot tables to ensure you’re ready for the test.
Final Thoughts on Easiest Microsoft Certifications
Getting a Microsoft certification doesn’t have to be a lengthy, complicated process. These 8 Microsoft certifications provide a solid foundation in key areas of technology, from cloud computing to business automation and security. Whether you’re aiming to land your first tech job or you’re looking to broaden your skills, these beginner-friendly certifications are a great place to start. Just remember: the goal is to pick the cert that aligns with your career interests and goals. The knowledge you gain will not only help you pass the exam but will also give you the practical skills needed to excel in your tech career. Happy learning!
