Microsoft Information Security Administrator Associate
The SC-401 exam is designed for professionals who implement and configure Security. It validates your ability to implement information protection, implement data loss prevention and retention, and manage risks, alerts, and activities.
Exam details
- Certification
- Microsoft Information Security Administrator Associate
- Exam code
- SC-401
- Level
- Associate
- Duration
- Approximately 100 minutes
- Questions
- Typically 40–60 questions
- Passing score
- 700 out of 1000
- Cost
- USD $165 — typical price; the exact fee varies by country/region and currency, and local taxes may apply.
- Prerequisites
- None required
- Languages
- English (also available in Portuguese (Brazil), French, German, Japanese, Chinese (Simplified) and Spanish)
- Delivered by
- Pearson VUE
- Renewal
- Free online assessment, every 12 months
Skills measured
- Implement information protection
- Implement data loss prevention and retention
- Manage risks, alerts, and activities
Study resources & practice tests
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Frequently asked questions
Who should take SC-401?
SC-401 is aimed at information security administrators who plan and implement the protection of sensitive data using Microsoft Purview and related services. It suits professionals who safeguard data inside Microsoft 365 collaboration environments from internal and external threats, and who are familiar with Microsoft 365 services, PowerShell, Microsoft Entra, the Microsoft Defender portal and Microsoft Defender for Cloud Apps.
How to prepare for SC-401?
Combine the free Microsoft Learn learning paths with hands-on practice in Microsoft Purview and the Microsoft Defender portal, then confirm your readiness with a reputable practice test. Focus on the skills measured: implementing information protection, implementing data loss prevention and retention, and managing risks, alerts and activities. See the study resources below.
How to register for the SC-401 exam?
You book the exam from the official Microsoft certification page, which schedules it through Pearson VUE. You can sit it online with remote proctoring from home or at a test centre. Pick the date and delivery option that suits you when you register.
What is the retake policy if I fail SC-401?
If you don't pass on your first attempt, you must wait 24 hours before retaking. After a second failure you must wait 14 days, with the same 14-day wait before each further attempt. You may take the exam a maximum of five times within a 12-month period, and the exam fee applies to each attempt.