Microsoft Security, Compliance & Identity Fundamentals (SC-900)
Entry-level certification covering core security, compliance, and identity concepts across Microsoft services.
- Exam fee
- $99
- Typical salary
- $70K–$90K
SC‑900 is a solid first step for business professionals, students, or IT beginners who want a foundational grasp of Microsoft security and compliance. If you already hold advanced Microsoft certifications, a more specialized exam may be a better use of time.
What SC-900 covers
Entry-level certification covering core security, compliance, and identity concepts across Microsoft services including Azure AD and Microsoft Defender.
Key topics covered: Security concepts & methodologies, Identity & access principles, Compliance management, Microsoft Defender overview, Azure AD fundamentals.
Best suited for: Business professionals, students, and IT beginners entering security or compliance roles.
Common career paths: Junior Security Analyst, Compliance Analyst, IT Support Specialist.
SC-900 exam details
Exam domains
- Security concepts & methodologies
- Identity & access principles
- Compliance management
- Microsoft Defender overview
- Azure AD fundamentals
At a glance
- Exam fee
- $99
How to prepare for SC-900
| Stage | What to do | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Understand the certification overview Read the official SC‑900 description and identify the four core areas: security concepts, identity principles, compliance management, and Microsoft Defender. | Week 1 |
| 2 | Study each core area Dive into the article’s key topics, focusing on Azure AD fundamentals, identity & access, security methodologies, and compliance basics. | Weeks 2‑3 |
| 3 | Hands‑on practice Use free Microsoft labs or trial accounts to explore Azure AD and Microsoft Defender features discussed in the study material. | Week 4 |
| 4 | Review and self‑test Take practice quizzes that mirror the article’s topic list and note any gaps before the exam. | Week 5 |
Jobs and salary with SC-900
People holding this certification commonly report pay around $70K–$90K. Pay depends heavily on role, location and total experience. See the salary breakdown.
Roles this certification supports
SC-900 questions answered
What is the Microsoft Security, Compliance & Identity Fundamentals (SC-900) certification?
Entry-level certification covering core security, compliance, and identity concepts across Microsoft services. It is issued by Microsoft and sits in the Cybersecurity field.
Is Microsoft Security, Compliance & Identity Fundamentals (SC-900) hard?
Microsoft Security, Compliance & Identity Fundamentals (SC-900) is rated Beginner. Most candidates can prepare without prior professional experience in the field.
How much does the Microsoft Security, Compliance & Identity Fundamentals (SC-900) exam cost?
The listed exam fee is $99. Fees vary by country and change over time, so confirm the current price with Microsoft before you book.
What salary can I expect with Microsoft Security, Compliance & Identity Fundamentals (SC-900)?
Professionals with Microsoft Security, Compliance & Identity Fundamentals (SC-900) commonly report pay in the $70K–$90K range. Actual pay depends on role, location and total experience.
How should I prepare for Microsoft Security, Compliance & Identity Fundamentals (SC-900)?
Start with the official exam outline, build hands-on practice for each domain, then finish with timed practice questions. The study plan on this page breaks this into steps.
Alternatives to SC-900
| Certification | Vendor | Level |
|---|---|---|
| CISSP - Certified Information Systems Security Professional | ISC2 | Advanced |
| CEH - Certified Ethical Hacker | EC-Council | Intermediate |
| CompTIA Security+ | CompTIA | Beginner |
| CISM - Certified Information Security Manager | ISACA | Advanced |
| Google Cloud Professional Cloud Security Engineer | Google Cloud | Advanced |