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

Part 1: Cloud Concepts

Chapter 1: Introduction to Cloud Computing

Chapter 2: The Benefits of Using Cloud Services

Part 2: Azure Architecture and Services

Chapter 3: Azure Core Architectural Components

Chapter 4: Azure Compute Services

Chapter 5: Azure Storage Services

Chapter 6: Azure Network Services

Chapter 7: Azure Identity and Access

Chapter 8: Azure Security

Part 3: Azure Management and Governance

Chapter 9: Azure Cost Management

Chapter 10: Azure Governance and Compliance

Chapter 11: Azure Resource Deployment and Management

Chapter 12: Azure Monitoring Tools

Chapter 13: Appendix: Assessing AZ-900 Exam Skills

Chapter 14: Unlock Your Exclusive Benefits

Review

“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”. You will also see a stronger emphasis on judgment over memorization. While it remains an excellent guide for AZ 900 preparation, it is equally written for anyone seeking cloud literacy. Not just a cosmetic refresh. Not marketing gloss. But a truly, genuine evolution.

Peter De Tender, Lead Microsoft Technical Trainer

If you're starting your Azure journey or preparing for the AZ-900 certification, Microsoft Azure Fundamentals Certification and Beyond by Steve Miles is a valuable resource. 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. Whether you're a student, career switcher, or IT professional looking to build a solid cloud foundation, this book is an excellent starting point for developing Azure skills that extend beyond the certification exam.”

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

About the Author

Steve Miles works in a senior technology role for the cloud practice of a multi-billion turnover European Microsoft Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) IT distributor. He is a Microsoft Most Valuable Professional (MVP), Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT), and an Alibaba Cloud MVP. He has 25+ years of technology experience in hosted datacenter services, hybrid, and multi-cloud platforms, and a previous military career in engineering, signals, and communications. Steve is the author of many books on Microsoft technologies with a focus on Azure, AI and data as well as security.