DP-420: Microsoft Azure Cosmos DB Exam Study Guide

Are you looking to enhance your skills in cloud-native application development? Look no further than the DP-420 Designing and Implementing Cloud-Native Applications Using Microsoft Azure Cosmos DB Certification.

This advanced-level certification exam offered by Microsoft Azure is designed to equip you with the knowledge and expertise needed to create, configure, and manage databases and containers.

In this blog post, we will explore the overview of the DP-420 certification, why it is worth learning Cosmos DB development, who can benefit from this certification, its associated benefits, and how to start preparing for the DP-420 exam.

So, let’s get started.

DP-420 Certification Overview

The DP-420 Designing and Implementing Cloud-Native Applications Using Microsoft Azure Cosmos DB Certification is an advanced-level certification exam offered by Microsoft Azure. This certification is tailored for professionals who are eager to enhance their skills in cloud-native application development and gain expertise in leveraging Azure Cosmos DB.

The DP-420 certification dives deep into the intricacies of designing and implementing cloud-native applications using Azure Cosmos DB. It goes beyond the basics and focuses on advanced concepts such as database and container management, data querying and updating, and horizontal scalability. By earning the DP-420 certification, you demonstrate your proficiency in utilizing Azure Cosmos DB as a data store and building highly scalable cloud-native applications.

The DP-420 exam is carefully designed to assess your knowledge and practical skills in working with Azure Cosmos DB. It evaluates your ability to create, configure, and manage databases and containers, as well as your expertise in querying and updating data. Additionally, the exam tests your understanding of scalability and your ability to design and implement cloud-native applications that utilize Azure Cosmos DB as the data store.

By successfully passing the DP-420 certification exam, you validate your expertise and demonstrate your commitment to staying at the forefront of cloud-native application development. The certification serves as a valuable credential, highlighting your skills and knowledge to potential employers and clients, and setting you apart from your peers in the competitive job market.

Are you new to Azure Cloud? Do check out our blog post on the Microsoft Azure Certification Path and choose the best certification for you.

Why You Should Learn Cosmos DB Development?

In the ever-evolving world of technology, staying updated with the latest advancements is crucial for professionals seeking to thrive in their careers. One area that holds immense promise is Cosmos DB development. If you’re wondering why you should invest your time and effort into learning Cosmos DB development, read on to discover the compelling reasons.

Thriving in the Cloud-Native Era

Cloud-native applications have revolutionized the way businesses operate, offering scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. Cosmos DB, a globally distributed, multi-model database by Microsoft Azure, lies at the heart of these applications. By learning Cosmos DB development, you equip yourself with the skills to design and implement cloud-native applications, opening doors to exciting career opportunities in this thriving domain.

Unparalleled Scalability and Performance

Cosmos DB offers low-order-of-millisecond response times, making it an ideal choice for serverless operations that demand real-time data processing. Its ability to scale horizontally ensures seamless handling of growing workloads. By mastering Cosmos DB development, you unlock the potential to build highly scalable applications that deliver exceptional performance, meeting the demands of modern businesses.

Versatility and Flexibility

Cosmos DB supports multiple data models, including key-value, documents, graphs, and columnar, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of use cases. It provides various APIs, such as MongoDB, NoSQL, Gremlin, and Table, enabling developers to access and manipulate data efficiently. By learning Cosmos DB development, you gain the flexibility to work with diverse data models and APIs, expanding your scope as a developer.

Increasing Demand and Lucrative Opportunities

The demand for professionals with Cosmos DB development skills is skyrocketing as more organizations adopt cloud-native architectures. By acquiring expertise in Cosmos DB, you position yourself as a sought-after professional in the job market. The average salary for Cosmos DB developers exceeds the national average, providing attractive financial incentives to those who pursue this specialization.

Integration with Azure Services

Cosmos DB seamlessly integrates with various Azure services, allowing you to leverage a comprehensive ecosystem of tools and technologies. This integration enables you to build robust, end-to-end solutions by combining the power of Cosmos DB with other Azure offerings. By mastering Cosmos DB development, you gain the ability to create sophisticated, integrated solutions that address complex business requirements.

Also Check: MS-900 Exam Study Guide

Who This Certification Is For?

The DP-420 Designing and Implementing Cloud-Native Applications Using Microsoft Azure Cosmos DB Certification is tailored for a specific group of professionals who can greatly benefit from acquiring this advanced-level certification. If you’re wondering whether this certification is the right fit for you, read on to find out who can leverage the immense value it offers.

Cloud-Native Application Developers

The DP-420 certification is designed for programming engineers and application developers who are responsible for creating cloud-native solutions using the Azure Cosmos DB SQL API and its various software development kits (SDKs). If you have a strong background in cloud-native application development and a solid understanding of languages such as C#, Python, Java, or JavaScript, this certification can enhance your expertise and open doors to exciting career opportunities.

IT Professionals

IT professionals who possess comprehensive knowledge and experience in working with C#, Python, Java, or JavaScript and have a deep understanding of SQL or NoSQL databases can greatly benefit from the DP-420 certification. Whether you’re an IT architect, data engineer, or part of an IT development team, acquiring this certification showcases your skills in designing and implementing cloud-native applications using Azure Cosmos DB.

Data Engineers

For professionals interested in data engineering, the DP-420 certification provides a valuable opportunity to expand your skill set. By mastering the design and implementation of cloud-native applications using Azure Cosmos DB, you gain a competitive edge in the data engineering field. This certification validates your ability to work with large-scale data and design efficient data models, making you an asset to organizations dealing with complex data management challenges.

Cloud Enthusiasts

If you have a strong interest in cloud technologies and a passion for exploring cutting-edge solutions, the DP-420 certification can fuel your learning journey. By immersing yourself in the world of Azure Cosmos DB and cloud-native application development, you can gain valuable insights into the latest advancements in the industry and align yourself with the future of cloud computing.

Check Out: MS-700 Exam Study Guide

Benefits of DP-420 Certification

Earning the DP-420 Designing and Implementing Cloud-Native Applications Using Microsoft Azure Cosmos DB Certification comes with a multitude of benefits that can significantly impact your career trajectory. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out in the field, here are some compelling reasons why obtaining this certification can be a game-changer for you.

Validating Expertise

The DP-420 certification serves as a concrete validation of your skills and expertise in designing and implementing cloud-native applications using Azure Cosmos DB. It showcases your commitment to staying at the forefront of industry trends and technologies, making you a trusted professional in the eyes of employers and clients alike.

Career Advancement

Acquiring the DP-420 certification sets you apart from your peers and opens up a world of opportunities for career advancement. As organizations increasingly adopt cloud-native architectures and Azure Cosmos DB becomes a critical component, certified professionals are in high demand. This certification enhances your marketability, enabling you to pursue roles such as cloud-native application developer, data engineer, or IT architect with confidence.

Expanded Knowledge and Skills

Preparing for the DP-420 certification exam equips you with in-depth knowledge and practical skills in working with Azure Cosmos DB. You gain a comprehensive understanding of database and container management, data querying and updating, scalability, and designing cloud-native applications. This expanded knowledge not only enhances your capabilities but also empowers you to tackle complex challenges with confidence.

Increased Salary Potential

Certifications are often associated with higher earning potential, and the DP-420 certification is no exception. The average salary for Cosmos DB developers surpasses the national average, with professionals commanding competitive compensation packages. By investing in your professional development and acquiring this certification, you position yourself for higher salary prospects and financial growth.

Recognition and Credibility

The DP-420 certification carries substantial recognition and credibility within the industry. As a globally recognized certification backed by Microsoft Azure, it demonstrates your dedication to continuous learning and professional growth. This recognition adds credibility to your profile, building trust with employers and clients who prioritize certified professionals.

Networking and Community Engagement

Becoming a DP-420 certified professional allows you to connect with a vibrant community of like-minded individuals. Engaging with this community through forums, events, and professional networks can lead to valuable collaborations, knowledge sharing, and career opportunities. Networking with other certified professionals broadens your horizons and keeps you abreast of the latest industry trends.

Also Read: MS-203 Exam Study Guide

DP-420 Exam Details

DP-420 Exam Skills Measured

How to Register for DP-420 Certification Exam

You can register for the Designing and Implementing Cloud-Native Applications Using Microsoft Azure Cosmos DB Exam (DP-420) by going to the Official Microsoft Page.

How to Start Preparing for the DP-420 Exam?

The DP-420 Designing and Implementing Cloud-Native Applications Using Microsoft Azure Cosmos DB Certification exam requires thorough preparation to ensure success. If you’re eager to embark on your journey towards earning this valuable certification, here are some essential steps to kickstart your preparation.

Understand the Exam Objectives

Start by familiarizing yourself with the exam objectives outlined by Microsoft. This will give you a clear understanding of the topics and skills assessed in the exam. Take time to review the official exam documentation and study guides provided by Microsoft to gain insights into the key areas of focus.

Leverage Official Microsoft Learning Resources

Microsoft offers a wealth of official learning resources designed specifically for the DP-420 exam. Explore online courses, tutorials, and documentation available on the Microsoft Learn platform. These resources provide comprehensive coverage of the exam topics, ensuring you have a solid foundation of knowledge.

Hands-on Practice with Azure Cosmos DB

One of the most effective ways to prepare for the DP-420 exam is through hands-on practice. Create a Microsoft Azure account if you don’t already have one and set up an Azure Cosmos DB instance. Experiment with creating databases, containers, and performing various operations. Practice querying and updating data using Azure Cosmos DB’s SQL API and different SDKs. This practical experience will strengthen your understanding and proficiency.

Engage in Community Forums and Study Groups

Joining community forums and study groups dedicated to Azure and Cosmos DB can provide valuable insights and support during your preparation. Engage in discussions, ask questions, and share your knowledge with others. Collaborating with fellow learners can enhance your understanding and provide different perspectives on exam-related topics.

Take Practice Tests

Practice tests are an excellent way to assess your knowledge and identify areas that require further attention. Look for reputable practice tests specifically designed for the DP-420 exam. These tests simulate the exam environment and help you become familiar with the question formats and time constraints. Analyze your performance on practice tests to identify weak areas and focus your study efforts accordingly.

Supplement with Additional Learning Resources

In addition to official Microsoft resources, consider exploring supplementary learning materials such as books, video tutorials, and online courses from reputable platforms. These resources can provide alternative explanations, real-world scenarios, and additional practice exercises to further reinforce your understanding.

Create a Study Plan and Stay Consistent

Develop a study plan that outlines the topics you need to cover and allocate dedicated study time each day or week. Establish a consistent study routine to ensure steady progress. Break down the exam objectives into manageable chunks and set achievable goals. Regularly review and revise previously covered material to reinforce your knowledge.

Remember, preparing for the DP-420 exam requires dedication, persistence, and a structured approach. By leveraging official Microsoft resources, engaging with the community, and gaining hands-on experience, you can confidently embark on your journey towards becoming a DP-420 certified professional. Best of luck with your preparation!

Prerequisite for DP-420 Certification

Prerequisites for enrolling in this course are as follows:

• Familiarity with Microsoft Azure and proficiency in navigating the Azure portal (equivalent to AZ-900).
• Prior experience in coding using an Azure-supported language at an intermediate level. This includes languages such as C#, JavaScript, Python, or Java.
• Ability to write code for connecting to and performing operations on both SQL and NoSQL database systems.

DP-420 Exam Study Guide

Design and implement data models (35–40%)

Design and implement a non-relational data model for Azure Cosmos DB for NoSQL

• Develop a design by storing multiple entity types in the same container
• Develop a design by storing multiple related entities in the same document
  • Table design patterns
• Develop a model that denormalizes data across documents
  • Data modeling in Azure Cosmos DB
• Develop a design by referencing between documents
• Identify primary and unique keys
  • Primary and Foreign Key Constraints
• Identify data and associated access patterns
• Specify a default TTL on a container for a transactional store
  • Configure time to live in Azure Cosmos DB

Design a data partitioning strategy for Azure Cosmos DB for NoSQL

• Choose a partitioning strategy based on a specific workload
  • Data partitioning guidance
• Choose a partition key
  • Partitioning and horizontal scaling in Azure Cosmos DB
• Plan for transactions when choosing a partition key
• Evaluate the cost of using a cross-partition query
  • Optimize request cost in Azure Cosmos DB
• Calculate and evaluate data distribution based on partition key selection
  • Data partitioning guidance
• Calculate and evaluate throughput distribution based on partition key selection
• Construct and implement a synthetic partition key
  • Create a synthetic partition key
• Design and implement a hierarchical partition key
• Design partitioning for workloads that require multiple partition keys
  • Partitioning and horizontal scaling in Azure Cosmos DB

Plan and implement sizing and scaling for a database created with Azure Cosmos DB

• Evaluate the throughput and data storage requirements for a specific workload
  • Introduction to provisioned throughput in Azure Cosmos DB
• Choose between serverless and provisioned models
  • How to choose between provisioned throughput and serverless
• Choose when to use database-level provisioned throughput
  • Introduction to provisioned throughput in Azure Cosmos DB
• Design for granular scale units and resource governance
• Evaluate the cost of the global distribution of data
  • Optimize request cost in Azure Cosmos DB
• Configure throughput for Azure Cosmos DB by using the Azure portal

Implement client connectivity options in the Azure Cosmos DB SDK

• Choose a connectivity mode (gateway versus direct)
  • Azure Cosmos DB SQL SDK connectivity modes
• Implement a connectivity mode
  • Connectivity modes and requirements
• Create a connection to a database
  • Lesson 1: Connecting to the Database Engine
• Enable offline development by using the Azure Cosmos DB emulator
  • Install and use the Azure Cosmos DB Emulator for local development and testing
• Handle connection errors
• Implement a singleton for the client
• Specify a region for global distribution
  • Tutorial: Set up Azure Cosmos DB global distribution using the API for NoSQL
• Configure client-side threading and parallelism options
  • Performance tips for Azure Cosmos DB and .NET
• Enable SDK logging
  • Logging with the Azure SDK for .NET

Implement data access by using the SQL language for Azure Cosmos DB for NoSQL

• Implement queries that use arrays, nested objects, aggregation, and ordering
  • Common query patterns in Azure Stream Analytics
• Implement a correlated subquery
  • Subqueries (SQL Server)
• Implement queries that use array and type-checking functions
  • System functions in Azure Cosmos DB for NoSQL
• Implement queries that use mathematical, string, and date functions
  • C# Functions and Operators (U-SQL)
• Implement queries based on variable data
  • Query expression basics

Implement data access by using Azure Cosmos DB for NoSQL SDKs

• Choose when to use a point operation versus a query operation
  • Basic Query Operations (Visual Basic)
• Implement a point operation that creates, updates, and deletes documents
  • Implement Azure Cosmos DB for NoSQL point operations
• Implement an update by using a patch operation
• Manage multi-document transactions using SDK Transactional Batch
  • Transactional batch operations in Azure Cosmos DB using the .NET or Java SDK
• Perform a multi-document load using Bulk Support in the SDK
• Implement optimistic concurrency control using ETags
• Override default consistency by using query request options
• Implement session consistency by using session tokens
  • Manage consistency levels in Azure Cosmos DB
• Implement a query operation that includes pagination
  • Efficiently Paging Through Large Amounts of Data (C#)
• Implement a query operation by using a continuation token
  • Pagination in Azure Cosmos DB
• Handle transient errors and 429s
• Specify TTL for a document
  • Configure time to live in Azure Cosmos DB
• Retrieve and use query metrics

Implement server-side programming in Azure Cosmos DB for NoSQL by using JavaScript

• Write, deploy, and call a stored procedure
  • Create a stored procedure
• Design stored procedures to work with multiple documents transactionally
  • Transactional batch operations in Azure Cosmos DB using the .NET or Java SDK
• Implement and call triggers
  • CREATE TRIGGER (Transact-SQL)
• Implement a user-defined function
  • User-defined functions

Design and implement data distribution (5–10%)

Design and implement a replication strategy for Azure Cosmos DB

• Choose when to distribute data
  • Guidance for designing distributed tables using dedicated SQL pool in Azure Synapse Analytics
• Define automatic failover policies for regional failure for Azure Cosmos DB for NoSQL
• Perform manual failovers to move single master write regions
• Choose a consistency model
  • Consistency levels in Azure Cosmos DB
• Identify use cases for different consistency models
  • Consistency levels in Azure Cosmos DB
• Evaluate the impact of consistency model choices on availability and associated RU cost
• Evaluate the impact of consistency model choices on performance and latency
• Specify application connections to replicated data
  • Database replication

Design and implement multi-region write

• Choose when to use multi-region write
  • Configure multi-region writes in your applications that use Azure Cosmos DB
• Implement multi-region write
• Implement a custom conflict resolution policy for Azure Cosmos DB for NoSQL

Integrate an Azure Cosmos DB solution (5–10%)

Enable Azure Cosmos DB analytical workloads

• Enable Azure Synapse Link
  • What is Azure Synapse Link for Azure Cosmos DB?
• Choose between Azure Synapse Link and Spark Connector
  • Query data in Azure Synapse Analytics
• Enable the analytical store on a container
  • What is Azure Cosmos DB analytical store?
• Enable a connection to an analytical store and query from Azure Synapse Spark or Azure Synapse SQL
  • Configure and use Azure Synapse Link for Azure Cosmos DB
• Perform a query against the transactional store from Spark
  • Implement Azure Synapse Link with Azure Cosmos DB
• Write data back to the transactional store from Spark
  • Quickstart: Manage data with Azure Cosmos DB Spark 3 OLTP Connector for API for NoSQL

Implement solutions across services

• Integrate events with other applications by using Azure Functions and Azure Event Hubs
  • Azure Event Hubs trigger and bindings for Azure Functions
• Denormalize data by using Change Feed and Azure Functions
  • Change feed design patterns in Azure Cosmos DB
• Enforce referential integrity by using Change Feed and Azure Functions
  • Design a data partitioning strategy
• Aggregate data by using Change Feed and Azure Functions, including reporting
  • Use Azure Cosmos DB change feed to visualize real-time data analytics
• Archive data by using Change Feed and Azure Functions
• Implement Azure Cognitive Search for an Azure Cosmos DB solution
  • Import data from Azure Cosmos DB for NoSQL for queries in Azure Cognitive Search

Optimize an Azure Cosmos DB solution (15–20%)

Optimize query performance when using the API for Azure Cosmos DB for NoSQL

• Adjust indexes on the database
  • Modify an Index
• Calculate the cost of the query
• Retrieve request unit cost of a point operation or query
  • Find the request unit charge for operations in Azure Cosmos DB for NoSQL
• Implement Azure Cosmos DB integrated cache
  • Azure Cosmos DB integrated cache – Overview

Design and implement change feeds for Azure Cosmos DB for NoSQL

• Develop an Azure Functions trigger to process a change feed
  • Serverless event-based architectures with Azure Cosmos DB and Azure Functions
• Consume a change feed from within an application by using the SDK
  • Change feed in Azure Cosmos DB
• Manage the number of change feed instances by using the change feed estimator
  • Use the change feed estimator
• Implement denormalization by using a change feed
• Implement referential enforcement by using a change feed
  • Design a data partitioning strategy
• Implement aggregation persistence by using a change feed
  • Change feed design patterns in Azure Cosmos DB
• Implement data archiving by using a change feed
  • Change feed support in Azure Blob Storage

Define and implement an indexing strategy for Azure Cosmos DB for NoSQL

• Choose when to use a read-heavy versus write-heavy index strategy
• Choose an appropriate index type
  • Indexes
• Configure a custom indexing policy by using the Azure portal
• Implement a composite index
  • CREATE INDEX (Transact-SQL)
• Optimize index performance
  • Optimize index maintenance to improve query performance and reduce resource consumption

Maintain an Azure Cosmos DB solution (25–30%)

Monitor and troubleshoot an Azure Cosmos DB solution

• Evaluate response status code and failure metrics
  • Supported metrics with Azure Monitor
• Monitor metrics for normalized throughput usage by using Azure Monitor
  • Monitor and debug with insights in Azure Cosmos DB
• Monitor server-side latency metrics by using Azure Monitor
  • How to monitor the server-side latency for operations in an Azure Cosmos DB container or account
• Monitor data replication in relation to latency and availability
  • Measure Latency and Validate Connections for Transactional Replication
• Configure Azure Monitor alerts for Azure Cosmos DB
  • Create alerts for Azure Cosmos DB using Azure Monitor
• Implement and query Azure Cosmos DB logs
  • Monitor Azure Cosmos DB data by using diagnostic settings in Azure
• Monitor throughput across partitions
  • Monitor and debug with insights in Azure Cosmos DB
• Monitor distribution of data across partitions
  • Data partitioning guidance
• Monitor security by using logging and auditing
  • Azure security logging and auditing

Implement backup and restore for an Azure Cosmos DB solution

• Choose between periodic and continuous backup
  • Online backup and on-demand data restore in Azure Cosmos DB
• Configure periodic backup
  • Periodic backup and restore in Azure Cosmos DB
• Configure continuous backup and recovery
  • Continuous backup with point-in-time restore in Azure Cosmos DB
• Locate a recovery point for a point-in-time recovery
  • Manage recovery points
• Recover a database or container from a recovery point
  • Restore a database from a backup in Azure SQL Database

Implement security for an Azure Cosmos DB solution

• Choose between service-managed and customer-managed encryption keys
  • Customer-managed keys for Azure Storage encryption
• Configure network-level access control for Azure Cosmos DB
  • Configure IP firewall in Azure Cosmos DB
• Configure data encryption for Azure Cosmos DB
  • Data encryption in Azure Cosmos DB
• Manage control plane access to Azure Cosmos DB by using Azure role-based access control (RBAC)
  • Azure role-based access control in Azure Cosmos DB
• Manage data plane access to Azure Cosmos DB by using keys
  • Secure access to data in Azure Cosmos DB
• Manage data plane access to Azure Cosmos DB by using Microsoft Azure Active Directory (Azure AD)
• Configure Cross-Origin Resource Sharing (CORS) settings
  • Cross-Origin Resource Sharing (CORS) support for Azure Storage
• Manage account keys by using Azure Key Vault
  • Manage storage account keys with Key Vault and the Azure CLI (legacy)
• Implement customer-managed keys for encryption
• Implement Always Encrypted
  • Tutorial: Getting started with Always Encrypted

Implement data movement for an Azure Cosmos DB solution

• Choose a data movement strategy
• Move data by using client SDK bulk operations
• Move data by using Azure Data Factory and Azure Synapse pipelines
  • Pipelines and activities in Azure Data Factory and Azure Synapse Analytics
• Move data by using a Kafka connector
• Move data by using Azure Stream Analytics
  • Welcome to Azure Stream Analytics
• Move data by using the Azure Cosmos DB Spark Connector
  • Quickstart: Manage data with Azure Cosmos DB Spark 3 OLTP Connector for API for NoSQL

Implement a DevOps process for an Azure Cosmos DB solution

• Choose when to use declarative versus imperative operations
• Provision and manage Azure Cosmos DB resources by using Azure Resource Manager templates (ARM templates)
  • Manage Azure Cosmos DB for NoSQL resources with Azure Resource Manager templates
• Migrate between standard and autoscale throughput by using PowerShell or Azure CLI
  • Provision autoscale throughput on database or container in Azure Cosmos DB – API for NoSQL
• Initiate a regional failover by using PowerShell or Azure CLI
• Maintain indexing policies in production by using ARM templates

DP-420 Exam Retake Policy

Here is how you can retake the Microsoft Exam DP-420

• If a candidate does not clear the certification on the first attempt, then they will have to wait for 24 hours before they try again.
• If the candidate does not clear on the second attempt also, he/she should re-access their training and retake the exam after a period of 14 days.
• At last, a candidate has a maximum of 5 retakes allowed in a year.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the DP-420 Designing and Implementing Cloud-Native Applications Using Microsoft Azure Cosmos DB Certification offers immense value for professionals seeking to excel in cloud-native application development. By obtaining this certification, you validate your expertise in leveraging Azure Cosmos DB to design and implement scalable and efficient cloud-native solutions.

The benefits of the DP-420 certification extend beyond personal growth. Certified professionals gain a competitive edge in the job market, with increased career opportunities and higher earning potential. Moreover, the certification showcases your commitment to staying updated with the latest technologies and industry best practices.

So, don’t hesitate to take the next step towards advancing your career in cloud-native application development. Earn the DP-420 certification and unlock a world of possibilities in the ever-evolving realm of technology. Good luck!

FAQs

Related Articles

• Azure Certifications Study Guides
• Azure Certification Exam Tips and Tricks for a Higher Pass Rate
• Common Mistakes to Avoid in Azure Certification Exams
• TOP 60+ Azure Interview Questions and Answers
• Top 50 Azure Data Factory Interview Questions and Answers
• Microsoft Cloud Background Check: A Complete Beginners Guide
• DP-420 Exam Study Guide