Image Credit: Cloud360 Training
In today’s threat-filled digital landscape, cybersecurity isn't optional — it's mission-critical. As businesses rapidly adopt the cloud, they need skilled professionals who can detect, respond, and neutralize threats across hybrid environments. That’s where SC-200: Microsoft Security Operations Analyst certification comes in.
Whether you're looking to boost your career, level up your SOC skills, or pivot into cloud security, this guide walks you through everything you need to know about the SC-200 exam — plus a roadmap to help you pass it with confidence.
What is SC-200?
The SC-200 certification is designed for professionals responsible for threat detection, investigation, response, and remediation using Microsoft security solutions, particularly:
- Microsoft Sentinel (SIEM/SOAR)
- Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, Identity, Office 365
- Microsoft 365 Defender
- Microsoft Defender for Cloud (Azure Security Center)
It validates your ability to proactively protect an organization’s IT environment, making it a top credential for security analysts, SOC engineers, and cloud security professionals.
Who Should Take SC-200?
- SOC Analysts (L1/L2)
- Security Engineers
- Azure Administrators pivoting to security
- IT Professionals entering cybersecurity
- Candidates preparing for job roles in Microsoft security operations
Skills Measured in SC-200
According to Microsoft’s official blueprint, here’s how the exam is structured:
-
Manage a security operations environment (20–25%)
-
Configure protections and detections (15–20%)
-
Manage incident response (25–30%)
-
Manage security threats (15–20%)
Tip: Sentinel carries the most weight. Make sure you're hands-on with KQL, workbooks, playbooks, and analytics rules.
SC-200 Roadmap: How to Prepare Step-by-Step
Step 1: Understand the Exam Scope
Step 2: Get Hands-On with Microsoft Sentinel
- Deploy Sentinel in an Azure environment (Free Trial available)
- Practice creating Watchlists, KQL queries, Analytics Rules, and Playbooks
Step 3: Learn Microsoft Defender XDR (365 Defender)
- Explore Defender for Identity, Office 365, and Endpoint
- Understand incident correlation across services
Step 4: Dive Into Microsoft Defender for Cloud
- Learn Defender for Cloud, Secure Score, regulatory compliance
- Practice alerting, recommendations, and policies
Step 5: Practice KQL & Incident Response
- Master KQL for threat hunting
- Understand MITRE ATT&CK mapping in Sentinel
- Simulate incidents and practice investigation workflows
Step 6: Take Practice Tests
- Use mock exams to identify weak areas
- Review Microsoft Learn modules and measure your progress
Top Resources to Prepare
Certification Details
- Exam Name: SC-200: Microsoft Security Operations Analyst
- Format: Multiple choice, Case Study, Hot Spot, Drag-and-Drop
- Duration: ~120 minutes
- Passing Score: 700/1000
Final Tips for Success
- Focus on real-world scenarios, not just definitions
- Practice using Sentinel and Defender portals hands-on
- Learn to correlate alerts, automate responses, and visualize data
- Don’t skip KQL — it’s a major part of both the exam and the job
Ready to Become a Microsoft Security Operations Analyst?
SC-200 is more than just a certification — it's your gateway into a fast-growing field with high demand, great salaries, and global recognition. Whether you're upskilling or starting fresh in cybersecurity, following this roadmap can make your journey smoother and faster.
