Hey everyone, I'm currently holding the AZ-900 and SC-900 certifications, along with a Security+ certification, and I have a degree in cybersecurity. With nearly four years of experience in networking at a major MSP and a technology provider, I'm now looking into the job market after being laid off (thankfully with a severance package). I've just started a 30-day free trial on Azure and deployed a basic honeypot VM project, which I'm using to get hands-on experience with the platform.
While I plan to prepare for the AZ-500 and SC-200 certifications, I want to know if pursuing Azure and Defender is really worth my time. Beyond the personal growth of learning and having these certifications on my resume, is this a viable career path? How does the current job market look, especially in the EU and the MENA regions? I'd really appreciate any insights or opinions you all have. Thanks a lot!
5 Answers
Certifications alone won't land you a job. The entry-level exams like the AZ-900 are quite basic. It's the skills and experience that truly matter. If you're serious about your career, focus on gaining real-world experience rather than just accumulating certs.
Many of my clients value Azure certifications, and they can definitely add a competitive edge. If you're considering taking them soon, I'd be happy to help you create a tailored training plan. Our live, instructor-led courses provide substantial support, and I can offer discounts if you're interested. Just reach out for more info; I'd love to assist you!
I'm definitely interested in more details on that!
From my experience, certifications like AZ-500 are definitely valuable, but they aren't everything. I’ve worked in Azure for nearly nine years, and security roles are always in demand—especially right now. While some certs might be phasing out soon, having practical experience can set you apart in interviews. It's great that you're getting hands-on with Azure; that kind of lab work really helps solidify your skills. The demand is strong as businesses continue adopting Azure, and security remains a top priority for many organizations.
You're spot on! Practical skills often outweigh certifications in interviews, especially if you've demonstrated your experience with projects.
I work in a security consulting firm and have several Azure certifications myself. In my experience, while certifications help meet certain requirements, they aren't the sole determining factor for employment. It's more about your skills and experience. Most employers appreciate seeing projects or contributions you've made, especially those related to security in the cloud. Also, many firms support their employees in earning certifications as part of their development. Focus on building a portfolio of personal projects that showcase your security skills instead.
I've noticed a steady demand for Azure and Defender skills, particularly in security. In Europe, a lot of organizations are integrated into the Microsoft ecosystem. They need skilled individuals who can effectively manage and configure Defender—it's not just about navigating the interface. Given your background in networking and security, you're in a good position for these roles. It may not be a guaranteed way to land a job, but there's certainly potential if you're genuinely interested in cloud security.
I see your point, but certs can still help you get your foot in the door, especially as a starting point.