Although the Microsoft AZ-103 certification exam has officially been retired and replaced by AZ-104, many professionals still search for AZ-103 learning materials. This is partly because several training providers have retained well-structured AZ-103 content that aligns with the current AZ-104 objectives. Furthermore, those who began their preparation with AZ-103 in mind can transition smoothly into AZ-104 preparation without restarting from scratch. The core principles of cloud administration, such as resource management, networking, and security, remain consistent. Hence, identifying the best online course for AZ-103 still holds relevance, particularly for learners using legacy enterprise resources or seeking transitional mastery before advancing to more specialized Azure certifications.
This first installment in a three-part series explores the foundational knowledge required to succeed in the AZ-103 exam, highlights key challenges candidates face during preparation, and introduces the key characteristics of a high-quality online course tailored to this exam.
Unpacking the AZ-103 Certification Exam
The AZ-103 exam, titled “Microsoft Azure Administrator,” merged the previous AZ-100 and AZ-101 exams. It was aimed at professionals tasked with managing cloud services that span storage, security, networking, and compute capabilities within Microsoft Azure. Candidates were expected to understand core Azure services, manage subscriptions and resources, configure virtual networks, manage identities, and implement storage solutions.
Even though AZ-103 has been retired, the architecture of its syllabus lives on in AZ-104. Anyone familiar with AZ-103’s objectives would notice a considerable overlap with the new exam. This makes AZ-103-centric courses still valuable for learners entering the Azure ecosystem.
Exam Objectives of AZ-103
Candidates preparing for AZ-103 were expected to demonstrate proficiency in the following areas:
- Managing Azure subscriptions and resources
- Implementing and managing storage
- Deploying and managing virtual machines (VMs)
- Configuring and managing virtual networks
- Managing identities through Azure Active Directory
These topics are indispensable for anyone working toward a career in cloud administration. Therefore, online courses built around the AZ-103 curriculum are still highly beneficial when aiming for an Azure Administrator Associate certification or similar roles.
Key Challenges Faced by AZ-103 Aspirants
Understanding the exam structure and mastering the technical material is no small feat. Even for individuals with on-premises IT experience, Azure presents a new learning curve due to its scalability, abstraction layers, and service diversity. Here are several challenges candidates typically face when preparing for AZ-103:
1. Depth of Content
Azure is a vast platform. AZ-103 required candidates to develop a nuanced understanding of multiple services, configurations, and administrative tasks. Beginners often find it difficult to maintain focus or establish a structured learning plan due to the sheer volume of topics covered.
2. Shifting Interfaces and Features
Azure is constantly evolving. What was relevant in 2019 may look different in 2025. Candidates often struggle with learning from outdated material. An online course that is not consistently updated can confuse learners with deprecated portals, outdated command-line interfaces, or altered service options.
3. Balancing Theory and Hands-On Practice
One of the most common pitfalls in AZ-103 preparation is focusing too much on theory without practicing in the Azure portal or via the CLI. The exam demanded practical skills, and theoretical learning alone was insufficient.
4. Lack of Structured Study Guidance
The success of any online course hinges not just on the quality of its content but also on how well it guides learners. Many AZ-103 aspirants reported feeling lost when using disorganized materials that lacked roadmaps, milestone tracking, or adaptive content pacing.
Criteria for Identifying the Best Online AZ-103 Course
Not all online courses are created equal. When evaluating which is the best online course for AZ-103 preparation, one must consider a range of features that contribute to an effective and engaging learning experience. Below are some of the criteria that separate mediocre courses from exceptional ones.
1. Updated and Relevant Curriculum
Although AZ-103 has been phased out, the course content should remain aligned with the job role of an Azure administrator. A strong course will clarify changes between AZ-103 and AZ-104 while focusing on enduring concepts such as ARM templates, Azure Monitor, storage accounts, and virtual machines. Outdated screenshots or videos with deprecated terminology are red flags.
2. Hands-On Labs and Real-World Scenarios
Azure administration is fundamentally practical. Any high-quality course must include access to labs, sandbox environments, or guided practical exercises. This could be through tools like Microsoft Learn sandbox, Azure free tier, or simulated labs hosted by the course provider.
For example, deploying a virtual machine and connecting it via virtual network interfaces should not remain a theoretical idea. The learner must perform it at least once. Scenario-based labs that replicate real enterprise deployments are even more beneficial.
3. Instructor Expertise and Delivery Style
A compelling instructor can make even the most complex topic feel approachable. Look for courses led by certified Azure professionals who have both real-world experience and teaching expertise. Their delivery style should combine clarity, enthusiasm, and structured pacing.
Additionally, instructors who maintain engagement through live sessions, Q&A forums, or community interactions often elevate the learning experience from passive to active.
4. Structured Learning Paths
Randomized video lessons or long lecture segments without coherence often lead to learner fatigue. The best online courses for AZ-103 will provide:
- A logical progression of topics
- Clearly defined module objectives
- Estimated completion times
- Periodic quizzes to reinforce learning
- Study checklists and downloadable resources
These components ensure the learner remains oriented and can measure progress over time.
5. Exam Preparation Resources
AZ-103 required candidates to be familiar with not just core services, but also with the format and style of Microsoft’s certification exams. A good course provides exam-like questions, timed quizzes, and simulated test environments. Some providers also offer feedback explanations to enhance understanding.
Courses that mimic the actual test structure (such as multiple-choice, case studies, drag-and-drop items) allow learners to develop both confidence and strategy.
6. Community and Support Access
Preparing for a certification in isolation can be daunting. Many learners benefit significantly from access to communities, discussion boards, or peer study groups. Courses that offer instructor support, discussion forums, or mentorship channels stand out because they reduce dropout rates and increase learner motivation.
7. Certification Guarantee or Course Completion Certificate
Although optional, some online courses come with a pass guarantee or provide a certificate upon course completion. These features demonstrate the provider’s confidence in their material and give learners tangible proof of effort that can be included in resumes or LinkedIn profiles.
Common Types of AZ-103 Course Providers
When exploring AZ-103 courses, one will encounter several categories of providers. Understanding their nuances can help you decide which best suits your learning style and budget.
Self-Paced Video Platforms
These include websites such as Udemy, LinkedIn Learning, and Coursera. These platforms often allow lifetime access, are budget-friendly, and come with a large pool of student reviews. However, the quality varies widely between instructors.
Vendor-Specific Training Portals
Microsoft Learn is a free resource provided by Microsoft itself. It includes text-based modules, interactive coding environments, and sandbox labs. Although not video-heavy, it is structured, up-to-date, and trustworthy. It is best when combined with supplemental video content.
Bootcamp-Style Academies
Providers like A Cloud Guru, Pluralsight, and Whizlabs offer comprehensive certification paths. They include labs, assessments, and community discussions. These platforms are ideal for learners seeking a structured and immersive experience. However, they often operate on subscription models, which may not suit every learner.
Official Training Partners
Some learners may opt for instructor-led classes through Microsoft Learning Partners. These classes follow the official curriculum and offer classroom interactions. They are more expensive but highly effective for learners who prefer guided, synchronous instruction.
Evaluating Personal Learning Preferences
Selecting the best online course also depends on understanding your own learning style. Some learners thrive in a lecture-driven format, while others need hands-on interaction or collaborative study environments. When choosing a course, consider:
- Do you learn better through visual aids or written materials?
- Can you commit to a structured schedule, or do you need flexible learning?
- Do you require frequent feedback to stay on track?
- Do you plan to study full-time, part-time, or sporadically?
Matching the course features to your personal rhythm and preferences is crucial to ensure consistency and long-term retention.
Building a Foundation Before Selecting the Course
Before diving into specific course recommendations, it is essential to set a strong foundation. You should:
- Familiarize yourself with Microsoft Azure’s portal (portal.azure.com)
- Sign up for a free Azure account to explore core services
- Review the AZ-103 (and now AZ-104) exam objectives from Microsoft’s website
- Join online communities like TechCommunity, Reddit’s r/AzureCertification, or Stack Overflow
- Assess your current level of expertise in networking, security, and virtualization
A prepared mind absorbs knowledge more effectively. With these elements in place, the effort you invest in an online course will yield stronger results.
From Criteria to Informed Decision-Making
In the first part of this series, we explored the structure of the AZ-103 certification, examined why it remains relevant despite its official retirement, and identified the characteristics of a high-quality learning experience. This second part delves into the practical side of preparation: evaluating different types of online course formats available for mastering the AZ-103 syllabus.
Rather than endorsing specific companies or instructors, this article focuses on the underlying formats, content structures, and learning environments that can either support or hinder your success. Choosing a course isn’t just about following recommendations; it’s about aligning your goals, habits, and preferences with the design of the training.
Self-Guided Video Courses: Accessible but Varying in Depth
One of the most popular formats for online learning today is the self-paced video course. These typically offer a sequence of pre-recorded lessons that walk learners through key topics using visual aids, spoken explanations, screen recordings, and occasionally, guided demonstrations within the Azure portal.
This format is appealing for several reasons. First, it provides flexibility. Learners can pause, rewind, and review lectures at their convenience. Second, it’s cost-effective. Many of these courses are available at low cost and often provide lifetime access. Third, they usually include chapter-based segmentation and progress tracking, helping learners set milestones and maintain momentum.
However, the depth and quality of such courses can vary significantly. While some instructors offer comprehensive, technically accurate content, others may present outdated materials or oversimplify complex topics. Learners should always ensure the course is updated and aligns with the certification’s latest skill requirements.
Self-paced video courses are best for learners who prefer watching over reading, need flexibility, and enjoy step-by-step guidance with visual demonstrations.
Text-Based Interactive Modules: Structured and Officially Aligned
Another major category of online courses is the text-based, interactive module format. These are structured more like digital textbooks than lecture series. They often divide the content into “learning paths” or “units” based on exam domains and objectives. Each unit features concise explanations, embedded quizzes, and sometimes interactive command-line exercises or simulations.
The biggest advantage of this format is clarity and structure. Each concept is presented with precision, and learners can test their understanding through immediate assessment. Some platforms even provide sandbox environments—temporary, no-cost cloud environments—where users can practice tasks like creating virtual machines, configuring networks, or deploying resources.
This format is especially useful for learners who prefer reading over watching videos, those who enjoy hands-on experimentation, or anyone preparing for Azure work environments where documentation and scripting are standard.
On the downside, learners who need auditory or visual cues may find text-based courses less engaging. Additionally, these platforms often require more self-discipline, as there’s minimal instructor presence to guide or motivate learners.
Practice-Focused Courses: Assessment Over Instruction
A third category of online learning focuses heavily on exam preparation and assessment rather than direct instruction. These courses provide practice questions, mock tests, case studies, and quiz banks that simulate the certification environment. The idea is to prepare candidates not just with knowledge, but with exam-specific strategies—like time management, question interpretation, and scenario analysis.
This approach can be highly effective for candidates who already have foundational knowledge or have gone through formal instruction elsewhere. By simulating the actual test conditions, learners can identify weak areas, develop confidence, and refine their pacing.
That said, these courses are not ideal for beginners. Since they concentrate on evaluation rather than explanation, they lack the instructional depth required to build foundational understanding. Learners who rely solely on practice materials without having mastered the core concepts may find themselves memorizing answers rather than truly grasping the technology.
Courses focused on exam simulation are best used as a final preparation layer after technical study has been completed. They help reinforce knowledge, reduce exam anxiety, and fine-tune performance under pressure.
Lab-Based Learning Paths: The Practical Engineer’s Preference
Courses that revolve around practical labs take a different approach. Instead of teaching through lectures or written content, they immerse the learner directly into Azure environments. Participants are guided through tasks like configuring virtual machines, setting up security rules, deploying containers, or automating resource deployment using scripts.
These lab-driven paths aim to simulate real job scenarios rather than academic theory. They are often modular and trackable, allowing users to see how their skills improve over time. Some labs are fully hosted, meaning the user can complete all exercises within a virtual environment without needing to configure anything. Others require the learner to use their own Azure subscription, which can be advantageous for deeper exploration.
This method is highly beneficial for individuals seeking to become proficient in actual Azure operations. It is especially effective for learners aiming to transition into full-time cloud administrator roles.
However, labs require more time and mental energy than passive video consumption. Mistakes made in the environment can lead to confusion or frustration, especially for those who lack a solid conceptual base. Also, learners must often be cautious with resource usage to avoid unexpected charges in live environments.
Practical lab paths are best suited for learners with intermediate knowledge who want to deepen their skills, apply theory to real tasks, and prepare for both the certification and the job that follows.
Instructor-Led Courses: Structured but Time-Dependent
Instructor-led courses offer the traditional classroom experience in a virtual setting. These courses are delivered live by certified professionals over a series of sessions, often including digital courseware, guided labs, and live Q&A. Learners can interact with instructors in real time, ask clarifying questions, and participate in group discussions.
This format is ideal for those who need accountability, personalized feedback, and structured scheduling. Many find it easier to stay motivated when learning alongside peers under the guidance of an expert.
However, this method has its limitations. Live courses are usually more expensive than self-paced options and require learners to follow a fixed timetable. This can be challenging for full-time employees or those in different time zones. Additionally, once the course ends, access to recordings and materials may be limited.
Instructor-led courses are a strong choice for learners who thrive in social learning environments, appreciate live support, and can commit to a fixed schedule.
Blended Approaches: A Holistic Path to Success
No single course format is universally ideal. Many successful candidates use a combination of course types to create a well-rounded learning experience.
A common strategy involves starting with structured, text-based modules to build foundational knowledge. This is followed by video courses to reinforce understanding and fill in conceptual gaps. Practical labs then allow learners to apply their knowledge in real environments, while practice exams help fine-tune their readiness under simulated conditions.
Blending formats allows learners to switch modalities and avoid burnout. For example, after a few hours of reading documentation or watching lectures, jumping into a lab environment refreshes the learning experience and promotes deeper retention. Likewise, alternating between instruction and practice ensures both theoretical and applied skills are developed in parallel.
This kind of integrated approach requires planning. Learners must map their time, understand their strengths, and monitor their progress. It is helpful to keep a study journal or use digital tools to log tasks completed, concepts mastered, and areas needing review.
Choosing the Right Format Based on Personal Preferences
When selecting the best course type for AZ-103 preparation, consider the following questions:
- Do you learn best by watching, reading, or doing?
- Can you study independently, or do you need external guidance?
- Are you looking to pass the exam only, or do you want practical skills for job roles?
- How much time can you realistically commit each week?
- What is your budget, and are you seeking lifetime access or temporary enrollment?
Your answers will influence which format suits your needs. A self-paced video course might work for a visual learner with a tight budget. Someone aiming to become a cloud administrator might prefer a lab-driven approach. A working professional with little free time might benefit from an interactive but modular study path. Meanwhile, those who learn best in real-time discussions could opt for instructor-led training.
Making the Decision Count
In the end, the “best” online course is not defined by features alone, but by how well it aligns with your goals, your habits, and your timeline. The AZ-103 exam may no longer be offered, but the knowledge it covers remains deeply relevant for real-world Azure roles and its successor exam, AZ-104.
An effective course doesn’t just help you memorize terms or answer multiple-choice questions—it cultivates understanding, promotes confidence, and prepares you to work within Azure’s dynamic environment. As you evaluate your options, prioritize formats that encourage engagement, offer opportunities for hands-on work, and build your capacity for lifelong learning in cloud technologies.
Turning Preparation into Certification Success
In the first part of this series, we explored the relevance and structure of the Microsoft Azure AZ-103 certification exam. In the second, we examined different types of online courses—ranging from video-based modules to hands-on labs and assessment-driven formats—without promoting any particular platform. Now, in this final part, we will stitch everything together into an actionable study plan.
Whether you are still working through legacy AZ-103 resources or moving toward the updated AZ-104 exam, the following roadmap will help you build a strong foundation, gain practical experience, retain essential concepts, and walk into the exam room prepared to succeed. This guide avoids external promotions and focuses purely on method, structure, and strategic decision-making.
Step 1: Begin with a Blueprint
Every successful learning journey starts with understanding the terrain. Before you dive into course videos or practice labs, take time to review the official skills outline for AZ-103. Even though the exam has been replaced, its objectives remain highly relevant to current Azure administration roles.
Break the full syllabus into manageable domains. A typical structure may include:
- Managing Azure subscriptions and resources
- Implementing and managing storage
- Deploying and managing virtual machines
- Configuring and managing virtual networks
- Managing identities
Each of these areas demands not just theoretical understanding but also practical familiarity. When you organize your learning into these themes, you can distribute effort evenly and avoid gaps in knowledge.
Step 2: Choose a Primary Learning Format
As discussed previously, online courses exist in several formats: self-paced videos, interactive reading modules, hands-on labs, or exam simulations. Your first decision should be to select a primary format based on your learning preferences.
If you are a visual learner, start with a structured video course. If you prefer reading and direct interaction, an interactive module-based platform may be more effective. If hands-on experience is your priority, go straight into guided lab exercises.
Do not try to master all formats at once. Begin with one and complete a full pass through the major topics. Later, you can supplement your learning with other formats for reinforcement.
Step 3: Schedule Your Study Blocks
To build consistency and prevent burnout, structure your study sessions using a weekly or bi-weekly calendar. Commit to short, focused blocks—ideally between 60 to 90 minutes per session. Use each session to target a specific objective, such as:
- “Understand role-based access control (RBAC) and assign roles”
- “Create and configure a storage account”
- “Deploy a virtual machine using the portal and command-line tools”
A good rule is to cover theory first, then follow it immediately with practice. For example, watch a video on virtual network peering and then implement it in a lab. This fusion of knowledge and action promotes long-term retention.
Over a six-to-eight-week window, aim to complete the entire course, with two or three focused sessions per week. Adjust this schedule based on your personal pace and responsibilities.
Step 4: Create Your Own Practice Environment
Even if a course offers access to virtual labs, consider setting up your own Azure practice environment using a free or trial subscription. This helps you gain confidence in managing real resources and prepares you for workplace scenarios that cannot be simulated in isolated sandboxes.
Use your own Azure portal to:
- Explore resource groups and tagging
- Create virtual networks, subnets, and NSGs
- Launch Linux and Windows VMs, and connect via SSH or RDP
- Test backup and recovery scenarios
- Use the Azure CLI and PowerShell to automate tasks
Keep track of all the tasks you perform. Build a habit of documenting steps, commands, and troubleshooting methods. This not only reinforces learning but also serves as a useful reference later.
Step 5: Reinforce Each Domain Through Quizzes
After completing each domain of study, take short quizzes to reinforce what you’ve learned. These do not have to be full-length exams but should include a variety of formats—multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and scenario-based items.
Review your mistakes thoroughly. Try to understand the reason behind each wrong answer. Was it a conceptual misunderstanding, a misreading of the question, or a memory lapse? Identifying patterns in your errors can guide your revision.
If you consistently perform well in short assessments, it indicates strong comprehension. If your scores vary widely between domains, revisit the weaker areas with a different course format or additional lab practice.
Step 6: Assemble a Custom Study Notebook
As you progress through your course and labs, keep a personal study notebook—either digital or physical. Include key points such as:
- Important commands for Azure CLI and PowerShell
- Differences between similar services (e.g., Storage v1 vs. v2)
- Security concepts and identity controls
- Network design scenarios and common pitfalls
- ARM template snippets or JSON structures
Summarizing what you learn in your own words forces your brain to process and understand concepts more deeply. Later, when exam day approaches, your notebook becomes an invaluable revision tool.
Step 7: Simulate the Full Exam
Once you’ve completed the core learning and domain-level quizzes, attempt a full-length practice exam under exam-like conditions. Set a timer, eliminate distractions, and take the test in a single sitting.
This experience trains you in time management and builds the mental endurance required for the actual exam. Afterward, review your score and analyze each answer. Were you guessing? Did you struggle with any particular domain? Were there knowledge gaps or time pressure issues?
If your score is below a comfortable passing threshold, repeat the exercise after another week of revision. Treat your practice test not as a pass-or-fail judgment but as a diagnostic tool to refine your readiness.
Step 8: Bridge the Transition from AZ-103 to AZ-104
Although this study series focused on AZ-103, learners should recognize that transitioning to AZ-104 involves minimal disruption. The structure is similar, but a few new topics are introduced in AZ-104, such as:
- Monitoring Azure resources with Azure Monitor
- Managing Azure identities using conditional access policies
- Managing Azure compute with containers and scale sets
- Securing resources using Azure Policy and Blueprints
If you have followed a complete AZ-103 learning path and practiced extensively, adding these few AZ-104-specific topics will require only modest extra effort. Look for supplemental lessons or documentation to cover the delta, rather than starting over.
Step 9: Review Exam Day Procedures
Familiarize yourself with the technical and procedural requirements for scheduling the certification exam. Decide whether you prefer an online proctored environment or an in-person testing center. Ensure your ID, system, and test room meet all the necessary conditions.
Before the exam, plan a revision strategy. Use your study notebook for quick reviews. Revisit a few practice labs to sharpen your muscle memory. Avoid cramming new topics the night before. Instead, focus on solidifying what you already know.
Sleep well, stay hydrated, and go into the exam with a calm, focused mindset. Trust your preparation and pace yourself through the questions.
Step 10: Go Beyond Certification
Earning a certification like AZ-103 (or AZ-104) is a significant achievement, but the true value lies in applying that knowledge to solve real-world problems. Once certified, continue practicing by:
- Exploring advanced Azure services (e.g., automation, Kubernetes, cost optimization)
- Contributing to cloud migration or security projects at your workplace
- Studying for additional certifications in security, DevOps, or data engineering
- Teaching others—nothing reinforces learning better than explaining it
View your certification not as a finish line, but as the foundation of a longer professional journey in cloud computing.
Final Thoughts
The process of mastering the AZ-103 content and preparing for Azure administrator roles is both technical and strategic. It requires a blend of focused learning, repeated practice, honest self-assessment, and steady perseverance.
Rather than chasing the newest trend or the most popular course, focus on the fundamentals: understand the services, practice with purpose, review your progress, and never lose sight of the real-world context in which cloud technologies operate.
AZ-103 may be retired, but the knowledge it represents remains essential. By following the plan laid out across these three parts, you will not only prepare yourself for certification but also become a more capable, confident, and valuable cloud professional.