What is the lowest Microsoft certification?

The lowest-level Microsoft certification is typically considered the Microsoft Certified: Fundamentals certifications. These certifications are designed for individuals who are new to technology or looking to learn the basics of specific Microsoft technologies. They are ideal for beginners, students, or professionals who want to gain foundational knowledge in Microsoft products and services.

Popular Microsoft Fundamentals Certifications:

1. Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)

   • Focuses on basic cloud concepts and an introduction to Microsoft Azure.
   • Ideal for those looking to understand Azure cloud services and its pricing models, security, and compliance.

2. Microsoft Certified: Microsoft 365 Fundamentals (MS-900)

   • Covers the basics of Microsoft 365, including cloud services, productivity tools (Word, Excel, Teams), and security features.
   • Suitable for individuals or businesses using Microsoft 365 or those interested in understanding its core offerings.

3. Microsoft Certified: Power Platform Fundamentals (PL-900)

   • Introduces the Power Platform, which includes Power BI, Power Apps, Power Automate, and Power Virtual Agents.
   • Great for those interested in low-code solutions and automation.

4. Microsoft Certified: Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals (SC-900)

   • Focuses on basic security concepts, identity management, and compliance features within Microsoft’s ecosystem.
   • Useful for those pursuing a career in cybersecurity or IT security.

5. Microsoft Certified: Dynamics 365 Fundamentals (MB-910 / MB-920)

   • Provides an overview of Dynamics 365 and its applications, focusing on CRM and ERP solutions.
   • Good for individuals interested in business applications and customer relationship management.

Why Choose a Fundamentals Certification?

• Beginner-Friendly: No prior technical knowledge is required. These certifications are designed to introduce you to the basic concepts of cloud computing, Microsoft services, and IT.
• Career Starter: It’s an excellent starting point for someone new to tech or planning to advance to higher-level certifications such as Associate or Expert certifications.
• Short Preparation Time: Compared to higher-level certifications, Fundamentals certifications require less time to study, typically ranging from 20-30 hours of preparation.
• Widely Recognized: Although entry-level, these certifications are globally recognized and valued by employers for demonstrating foundational knowledge.

Conclusion:

The Microsoft Certified: Fundamentals certifications, like Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) or Microsoft 365 Fundamentals (MS-900), are considered the lowest-level certifications in the Microsoft certification path. They are perfect for beginners or professionals looking to gain a foundational understanding of Microsoft’s cloud, productivity, or business solutions.

For more advanced certifications, you can progress to Associate and Expert levels once you have a solid foundation from these Fundamentals certifications.