Exam Details
Microsoft · SC-200
Prepare for SC-200: Detect and respond to threats using Microsoft Defender XDR and Sentinel.
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FAQ
The SC-200 exam validates your ability to use Microsoft Defender XDR, Microsoft Sentinel, and Microsoft Defender for Cloud to detect and respond to security threats. This associate-level certification targets security operations analysts who configure SIEM and XDR solutions, investigate incidents, hunt threats, and automate responses. You'll prove you can protect hybrid environments using Microsoft's integrated security stack. As organizations face increasingly sophisticated attacks, skilled security operations analysts are the frontline defense every company needs.
You're a fit for SC-200 if you:
Not sure if you're ready? Try a free sample quiz: 10 questions, instant results, identify weak areas.
| Domain | Weight | What This Means |
|---|---|---|
| Mitigate threats using Microsoft Defender XDR | 35–40% | Investigate incidents across endpoints, email, identities, and apps using the unified Defender portal |
| Mitigate threats using Microsoft Sentinel | 25–30% | Create workbooks, build detection rules, run KQL queries, and orchestrate automated responses |
| Mitigate threats using Microsoft Defender for Cloud | 15–20% | Assess security posture, remediate recommendations, and protect cloud workloads |
| Configure and manage Defender for Endpoint | 10–15% | Deploy endpoint detection, configure attack surface reduction, and manage device policies |
You're probably ready if you can:
You might need more prep if:
If this feels too advanced:
If you know the basics but want to build confidence:
This certification is designed for security operations analysts, threat hunters, and incident responders who use Microsoft security solutions to protect enterprise environments. While there are no formal prerequisites, candidates should have a solid understanding of Microsoft 365 and Azure security services. It is specifically targeted at professionals who spend their day-to-day work in Security Operations Centers (SOCs) triaging alerts and performing deep-dive investigations.
The SC-200 exam typically lasts between 100 and 120 minutes. The format consists of various question types designed to test practical application, including:
The exam is scored on a scale of 1 to 1,000, and a minimum passing score of 700 is required. To help you prepare for the high stakes of the actual test, ExamOS offers scenario-based practice quizzes that build real exam confidence by focusing on the logic required for investigation-heavy questions.
The exam content is updated regularly to reflect the latest security features. The current domains include:
A comprehensive study plan should include a mix of theoretical and practical resources:
The standard registration fee for the SC-200 exam is $165 USD. However, the price is subject to change based on your geographic location and local taxes. Microsoft often offers discounts through academic programs or for employees of partner organizations, so it is worth checking for vouchers before booking.
Microsoft has a strict policy regarding exam retakes to maintain certification integrity:
The Microsoft Certified Security Operations Analyst Associate certification is valid for exactly one year. To keep it active, you must complete a free renewal assessment on Microsoft Learn within the six-month window before your certification expires. If you fail to renew before the deadline, you will be required to retake the full SC-200 exam to regain your certified status.
While the SC-200 is a highly respected credential, it is not a "magic bullet" for a high-salary role without supporting experience. It positions you for roles such as Level 1 or Level 2 SOC Analyst, Incident Responder, or Junior Security Engineer. In the current market, employers look for this certification to prove you understand the Microsoft stack, but you will still need to demonstrate core networking knowledge and soft skills during the interview process to land a mid-to-senior level position.
After mastering security operations, you can specialize further by pursuing these related certifications: