Microsoft Azure certifications are essential for professionals looking to dip their toes in cloud computing and data engineering. Data Engineering is a vast field in Microsoft Azure. However, you must pass exam DP 203: Data Engineering on Microsoft Azure to become a Microsoft Certified Azure Data Engineer Associate.
This exam assesses a candidate’s ability to design and implement data solutions on Microsoft Azure. It is crucial because Azure data engineers design and deploy data solutions using Azure Cosmos DB, Azure SQL Database, Azure Synapse Analytics, Azure Data Factory, and Azure Stream Analytics.
DP 203 Certification Exam:
Previously, to validate expertise in the above technologies, we had to take two examinations and get an Azure Data Engineer Associate certification.
Previous exams were:
ā Implementing an Azure Data Solution (DP-200)
ā Designing an Azure Data Solution (DP-201 Exam)
Microsoft has discontinued these examinations from the end of June 2021 and replaced them with a single new certification. DP-203: Data Engineering on Microsoft Azure to assist in simplifying this path. The exam has only recently emerged from public beta, so now is an excellent time to take it.Ā
In this post, we have addressed all that needs to do to pass this exam and become a Microsoft certified professional.
Exam Prep:
If you wonder where to begin your prep, the Microsoft Learn page is an excellent place to start.
You can get started by creating a Microsoft Azure account. Knowledge of the Azure Portal and Azure data services, including Azure Cosmos DB, Azure SQL Database, Azure Synapse Analytics (previously Azure SQL DW), Azure Data Lake Storage, Azure Data Factory, Microsoft Artificial Intelligence, Azure Stream Analytics, Azure Databricks, and Azure Blob storage. A fundamental understanding of relational and nonrelational data models is required.
Tools you can use are:
ā Official Microsoft labs on DP-203
ā Free Azure account
ā Microsoft Learn
ā Online courses
ā Instructor-led training
ā Official practice tests
Courses:
Microsoft certification coursesĀ can be an excellent start for people with no background in data engineering. These courses can act as much-needed refreshers for people who have used the platform. You’ll brush up on how to save and create cleansed and enriched datasets for analysis using various Azure data services and languages.Ā
Most courses will provide a practice test to put your knowledge to the test. It will cover all of the major topics covered on the DP-203 exam, guaranteeing that you’re ready to pass.
Another reason why you should opt for Microsoft online courses is to get comprehensive learning for the Microsoft certification program and find your options for moving further in your career. You’ll also learn about test-taking tactics, valuable resources, and how to register for the DP-203 proctored exam.
Skills Measured:
The Data Engineering on Microsoft Azure Certification exam measures the following skills.
Design and Implement Data Storage (40-45%)
ā Design a data storage structure
ā Design a partition strategy
ā Design the serving layer
ā Implement physical data storage structures
ā Implement logical data structures
ā Implement the serving layer
Design and Develop Data Processing (25-30%)
ā Ingest and transform data
ā Design and develop a batch processing solution
ā Design and develop a stream processing solution
ā Manage batches and pipelines
Design and Implement Data Security (10-15%)
ā Design security for data policies and standards
ā Implement data security
Optimize and Monitor Data Storage and Data Processing (10-15%)
ā Monitor data storage and data processing
ā Troubleshoot and optimize data storage and data processing
Training
As mentioned above, Microsoft certification training is a crucial step to solidifying your knowledge in data engineering. You can partner with reputed learning institutions to opt for instructor-led training. In addition, practical labs are also worth doing if you want to familiarise yourself with the program.
Finish your exam prep make with the official practice exam. It allows you to select test lengths based on how much time you have to practice. You can choose whether you want to be told the answers right away or towards the end. Topics like cloud security that are a popular part of the exam are explored in more detail.
Conclusion
Microsoft certifications help you get a competitive advantage by demonstrating mastery of digital and cloud business skills in an internationally recognized and industry-endorsed manner. There is an ambiguity regarding the roles of data engineers concerning data scientists. A closer look at the need for data science clearly shows the significance of data engineers. As an Azure certified data engineer, you can pursue the roles of a data analyst and data scientist in a single position. With the DP 203 certificate, you will be able to land an excellent salary and work with dynamic companies globally.
