VMware VCP vs Azure Administrator Certification
Compare VMware VCP and Microsoft Azure Administrator certifications.
VMware Certified Professional - Data Center Virtualization
VMware
Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104)
Microsoft
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Compare all aspects of these certifications side by side
| Feature | VMware Certified Professional - Data Center Virtualization | Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104) |
|---|---|---|
| Provider | VMware | Microsoft |
| Difficulty Level | Professional | Associate |
| Exam Duration | 130 minutes | 120 minutes |
| Exam Cost | $250 USD | $165 USD |
| Exam Format | 70 questions | 40-60 questions |
| Prerequisites | Training or experience | None |
| Validity Period | 2 years | 1 year (renewal) |
| Ideal For | Data center virtualization admins | Azure cloud administrators |
| Salary Range | $95,000 - $140,000 | $100,000 - $145,000 |
What Each Certification Covers
Key topics and domains covered in each exam
VMware Certified Professional - Data Center Virtualization Focus Areas
- vSphere
- vCenter
- Networking
- Storage
- HA/DRS
Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104) Focus Areas
- Azure VMs
- Networking
- Storage
- Identity
- Governance
Our Recommendation
VCP for on-premises virtualization; Azure for cloud administration.
Choose VMware Certified Professional - Data Center Virtualization
Choose VCP for VMware-based private cloud environments.
Choose Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104)
Choose Azure for public cloud administration on Microsoft Azure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: VMware Certified Professional - Data Center Virtualization or Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104)?
VCP for on-premises virtualization; Azure for cloud administration.
What are the salary differences between VMware Certified Professional - Data Center Virtualization?
VMware Certified Professional - Data Center Virtualization typically offers salaries around $95,000 - $140,000, while Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104) offers $100,000 - $145,000.
Which certification should I get first?
Choose VCP for VMware-based private cloud environments. Choose Azure for public cloud administration on Microsoft Azure.
How long does it take to prepare for these certifications?
Preparation time varies based on experience. Most candidates spend 4-12 weeks studying, depending on their background and the certification difficulty level.
Ready to Get Certified?
Start your certification journey with our free practice exams and study guides