Practice Azure Security Through High-Fidelity Simulation

The AZ-500 Helix Software-Defined Lab gives learners an interactive way to practice essential Microsoft Azure security workflows directly in their browser.

Learners complete realistic, carefully designed exercises covering identity and access management, network security, compute and storage protection, security operations, and threat monitoring. High-fidelity screens, interactive hotspots, and responsive interface elements closely recreate key experiences within the Microsoft Azure portal and related security management tools.

There is no virtual machine to launch and no Azure subscription or temporary cloud credentials to manage. The lab opens quickly in the browser, allowing learners to focus on practicing the targeted skills.

What Learners Can Practice

Depending on the exercises included in the course, learners may practice workflows related to:

• Managing Azure identities and access controls
• Configuring Microsoft Entra ID security features
• Implementing role-based access control (RBAC) and privileged access management
• Securing Azure virtual networks and network connectivity
• Configuring network security groups, Azure Firewall, and other network protection features
• Securing Azure compute and storage resources
• Managing encryption, secrets, and keys using Azure Key Vault
• Exploring security policies and compliance controls
• Monitoring security posture and identifying potential threats using Microsoft Defender for Cloud
• Configuring security monitoring, logging, and alerting
• Navigating the Microsoft Azure portal and following common Azure security administration workflows

Why Choose a Helix Software-Defined Lab?

Learn by Doing

Reinforce technical concepts through interactive exercises instead of passive instruction alone.

Practice Authentic Workflows

Complete tasks modeled on the interfaces, terminology, and processes used by Azure security engineers and cloud security professionals.

Start in the Browser

Access the learning environment without provisioning a virtual machine or connecting a live Azure subscription.

Practice Safely

Work through guided scenarios without changing or affecting live cloud resources.

Repeat Important Tasks

Revisit targeted workflows in a consistent environment to strengthen familiarity and confidence.

Focus on the Learning Objective

Each experience is purpose-built around specific skills, helping learners concentrate on the tasks they need to master.

Who Is This Lab For?

This lab is designed for:

• Learners preparing for Microsoft AZ-500 training
• Current or aspiring Azure security engineers
• IT professionals responsible for securing cloud environments
• Cloud administrators developing Azure security and compliance skills
• Instructors adding interactive practice to their courses
• Training providers delivering scalable technical education
• Organizations strengthening cloud security skills across their teams

Software-Defined Labs and Live Labs

Helix supports different types of hands-on learning for different objectives.

Helix Software-Defined Labs provide focused, high-fidelity simulations for guided practice, repeatable exercises, and targeted skill development.

Helix Live Labs connect learners to real technology environments and support open-ended exploration, configuration, experimentation, and troubleshooting.

The two experiences are complementary. This product is a Software-Defined Lab delivered through simulation and does not provide access to a live Microsoft Azure environment.

The Helix Learning Ecosystem

Helix brings together XtremeLabs’ hands-on learning solutions, including Software-Defined Labs and live virtual machine–based labs. Through Helix Labs and Helix Exchange, learners, instructors, training providers, and organizations can access practical learning experiences across Microsoft Azure, Microsoft 365, Microsoft Copilot, Windows, and other technologies.

One hands-on learning ecosystem. Multiple ways to practice. The right environment for every skill.

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS

• High-fidelity Azure portal and security management simulations
• Interactive, scenario-based exercises
• Browser-based access
• No live Azure subscription required
• No virtual machine provisioning
• Safe, consistent learning experience
• Practice aligned with Azure security engineering skills
• Designed for Azure security engineers and cloud security professionals

Labs are available in English.