Resources available and utilizing Microsoft Learn for supplemental experience
Microsoft Learn combined with Microsoft Docs provides an enormous amount of free content and value to help you prepare for both the exam and your career progression.
Let’s begin by reviewing how to access Microsoft Learn and locate learning paths directed at the AZ-801 exam candidates. Accessing Microsoft Learn can be done through the following link: https://aka.ms/learn. Creating a free account can be accomplished by clicking the Sign in link, as shown in the following screenshot:
Figure 1.4 – Microsoft Learn website sign in
After selecting Sign in, you have the option of creating a new account if you do not already have one, or using an existing account as seen here:
Figure 1.5 – Creating a new Microsoft account or using an existing Microsoft account for Microsoft Learn
Selecting the following link will quickly take you to a curated Microsoft Learn learning path that covers both the AZ-800 and AZ-801 exams: https://aka.ms/AzureLearn_WindowsServerHybridAdmin.
Where and when to take the exam
The classic IT answer comes to mind when people ask where and when they should take the exam – it depends! When you feel that you have successfully mastered the skills based on the exam outline and have finished the exercises and materials in this book, it would be a good time to consider scheduling the exam. You can take the exam either at a proctored exam site near you or remotely from your home or office.
Both options have their pros and cons, depending on the comfort level of the exam candidate. There are some important preparations that need to occur from a remote proctor’s perspective before considering scheduling this exam to be taken at your home or office. Let’s review the steps together to prepare for a remote proctor.
Your device must meet the requirements of having a webcam, a microphone, speakers, and a stable internet connection (wired is preferred). You will also need to stop or disable any software that is unnecessarily running on your device (for instance, PowerToys, screen capture tools, VPN software, and other productivity tools). You will need a mobile device to complete a remote check-in process, which involves taking photos of your form of identification, as well as the surrounding area in which you will be taking the exam. Your work area and walls must be relatively free of any pictures, papers, pens, phones, and books. A word of caution – you will need to remain quiet and stay within the frame of the camera throughout the exam so as not to risk disqualification from the exam attempt.