Microsoft Guaranteed-to-Run

SC-5004: Defend Against Cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR Intermediate

SC-5004: Defend Against Cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR equips security analysts and SOC professionals with hands-on skills to investigate, respond to, and mitigate advanced cyberattacks using Microsoft’s unified XDR platform. It solves the critical pain point of fragmented threat detection by teaching integrated incident management, endpoint investigation, and KQL-powered advanced hunting. With cyberattacks rising and 182,800 information security analyst jobs reported in 2024 (BLS), demand for skilled defenders is surging.

This course prepares learners for the Microsoft Applied Skills credential in Defender XDR, enhancing readiness for roles requiring real-time threat response. Koenig Solutions provides official vendor-authorized courseware and 30-day lab access, enabling learners to master Defender XDR in realistic environments. Graduates gain the expertise to reduce organizational risk and lead incident response in modern security operations centers.

8 Hours (1 Days)
Live Online / Classroom
26+ professionals trained

Training Formats & Pricing

1-on-1 USD 850
Dedicated instructor, your schedule Fastest
Public Batch USD 650
Group class, fixed schedule Most Popular
Self-Paced USD 199
Recorded sessions, learn anytime Best Value

100% Happiness Guarantee · Free Rescheduling · Secure Payment

Course Overview

SC-5004: Defend Against Cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR is a specialized Microsoft training path designed for security professionals aiming to master advanced threat protection using the Microsoft Defender XDR platform. This course prepares learners for the Microsoft Applied Skills credential in Defend against cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR, a performance-based assessment validating real-world security operations expertise. It is ideal for Security Operations Analysts, SOC Engineers, and Threat Hunters responsible for detecting, investigating, and responding to cyberattacks across endpoints, identities, and cloud workloads. With over 80% of Fortune 500 companies adopting Microsoft security solutions, demand for skilled Defender XDR practitioners continues to grow, making this certification highly relevant for modern security teams.

The course delivers hands-on experience with core Microsoft security tools, including Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, Microsoft 365 Defender, Microsoft Defender XDR, Azure Sentinel, and the Kusto Query Language (KQL) for advanced hunting. Students work within the Azure Portal and a simulated Microsoft 365 E5 tenant to configure the Defender XDR environment, onboard endpoints, deploy detection policies, and automate incident response workflows. A key lab component involves conducting a full device investigation after simulating a real-world attack, using forensic data and behavioral analytics to contain threats. Learners also perform Advanced Hunting with KQL to proactively identify suspicious activities across their network, gaining practical skills in query writing, threat intelligence integration, and incident correlation within a unified security operations platform.

By completing SC-5004: Defend Against Cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR, professionals prepare for the Microsoft Applied Skills credential, a globally recognized validation of hands-on security operations proficiency. Certified individuals report an average salary increase of 20%, with Security Operations Analyst roles averaging $95,000–$130,000 annually in the U.S. Koenig Solutions enhances this training with Guaranteed-to-Run scheduling, official Microsoft courseware, and optional 1-on-1 mentoring to ensure mastery. Graduates emerge ready to lead threat response efforts, reduce organizational risk, and advance into senior security analyst or incident response roles within enterprise environments leveraging Microsoft’s security ecosystem.

What You'll Learn

Configure the platform environment to establish a robust security foundation within the Microsoft security suite.
Deploy Microsoft Defender for Endpoint to protect organizational devices against sophisticated cyber threats.
Manage alerts and detections within the solution to identify and respond to security incidents with precision.
Automate investigation and remediation workflows using the platform to reduce response times and minimize potential damage.
Execute comprehensive endpoint investigations using Microsoft Defender for Endpoint to uncover and isolate malicious activities.
Analyze complex threats using Advanced Hunting and KQL within the solution to perform proactive threat hunting and forensic analysis.

Skills You'll Gain

Microsoft Defender XDR Microsoft Defender for Endpoint Kusto Query Language Endpoint Detection and Response Incident Management Device Investigation Advanced Hunting Security Policy Configuration Automation Rules Deception Rules Device Onboarding Live Response Threat Investigation Custom Detection Rules Attack Simulation Security Operations Incident Assignment

Prerequisites

Recommended knowledge before taking this course
  • Knowledge equivalent to SC-200: Microsoft Security Operations Analyst certification
  • Active Microsoft 365 E5 subscription access for hands-on lab environments
  • Experience with Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) in Microsoft Entra ID
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Defender portal management and deployment
  • Foundational understanding of Microsoft Defender for Endpoint threat response
  • Operational familiarity with Microsoft Sentinel for security data analysis
  • Practical experience using Kusto Query Language (KQL) for threat hunting and incident investigation within the SC-5004: Defend Against Cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR course by Microsoft
Corporate Training
Get a Corporate Quote

Volume discounts · Dedicated account manager · Custom scheduling

Certification Exam

Everything you need to know about the SC-5004 certification exam

Exam Details
Exam Name
SC-5004
Format
Multiple choice, labs & case studies
Questions
Duration
Passing Score
Validity
Retake Policy
72-hour wait period between lab attempts
Let's Talk

Request for more information

SC-5004: Defend Against Cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR

We'll respond within 1 business day · No spam, ever.

Course Curriculum

Structured learning with hands-on labs and real-world scenarios

1
Day 1– SC-5004: Foundations of Microsoft Defender XDR and Incident Management
Mitigate threats using Microsoft Defender XDR Navigate the Microsoft Defender portal Manage security incidents and alerts Investigate active incidents across the XDR stack Integrate Defender for Office 365, Identity, and Cloud Apps Utilize Action Center for remediation Execute advanced hunting using KQL Lab: Incident response and cross-product investigation
2
Day 2– SC-5004: Deploying and Managing Defender for Endpoint
Provision the security environment for XDR Onboard enterprise devices and verify OS compatibility Configure RBAC roles and manage device groups Enable advanced features and behavioral blocking Deploy Defender for Endpoint sensors Analyze device timelines and forensic artifacts Discover and secure network devices Lab: Device onboarding and endpoint configuration
3
Day 3– SC-5004: Optimizing Detection, Analytics, and Secure Score
Configure advanced detection analytics Manage alert suppression and security indicators Leverage threat analytics to identify trends Improve Microsoft Secure Score through recommendations Define and apply custom detection policies Monitor and respond to Defender for Office 365 threats Integrate Defender for Identity signals Lab: Detection tuning and threat analytics
4
Day 4– SC-5004: Automating Workflows and XDR Integration
Configure automated investigation and remediation (AIR) Create and manage automation rules Monitor response actions and automation logs Manage Defender for Cloud Apps policies Perform end-to-end analysis across the XDR suite Audit Entra sign-in logs for identity-based threats Optimize automation workflows for incident response Lab: Automated remediation and cross-platform orchestration

What's Included in Your Training

Every enrollment comes packed with resources to maximise your learning and exam success

Career Outcomes

82%

of SC-5004 certified professionals report career advancement within 6 months

Salary Impact

+24%

Average salary increase reported after obtaining the SC-5004 certification

Typical Salary Range (Global)
Entry$90,000–$115,000
Mid$115,000–$145,000
Senior$145,000–$180,000

*Source: Glassdoor / LinkedIn 2025

Job Roles

6
  • Security Operations Analyst
  • SOC Security Engineer
  • Incident Response Analyst
  • Threat Hunter
  • Information Security Analyst
  • Digital Forensics Analyst

Companies Hiring

5,000+
Microsoft Accenture Deloitte Infosys Wipro TCS JP Morgan Chase Booz Allen Hamilton CrowdStrike Optiv

and 5,000+ organizations worldwide seeking SC-5004 certified professionals

Real Transformations

Course Student Reviews

Real results from IT professionals who trained with Koenig — rated 4.9/5 from 18,400+ verified reviews.

18,400+
Verified Reviews
4.9 / 5
Average Rating
95%
Would Recommend
1M+
Professionals Trained
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about the SC-5004 training course

Is the SC-5004: Defend Against Cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR assessment fee included?
The SC-5004: Defend Against Cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR course aligns with the Microsoft Applied Skills assessment. This credential is free to earn. There is no exam fee, as Microsoft Applied Skills assessments are complimentary and accessed directly via Microsoft Learn.
What training formats does Koenig offer for SC-5004: Defend Against Cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR?
Koenig provides SC-5004: Defend Against Cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR via live online 1-on-1 and classroom formats. Our Guaranteed-to-Run scheduling ensures training proceeds even with one participant. We offer flexible weekday and weekend sessions tailored to your specific professional availability.
How long is lab access for SC-5004: Defend Against Cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR?
Koenig provides hands-on lab access for SC-5004: Defend Against Cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR using cloud-based sandboxes. These simulate real-world Microsoft Defender XDR scenarios. You receive access during training and for up to 6 months post-course, depending on your selected enrollment plan.
What is the Koenig rescheduling policy for SC-5004: Defend Against Cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR?
Koenig offers flexible rescheduling for SC-5004: Defend Against Cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR with no extra fees when requested in advance. We process cancellations and credit transfers based on timing, ensuring full flexibility for both corporate teams and individual learners.
What is the format of the SC-5004: Defend Against Cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR assessment?
The SC-5004: Defend Against Cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR assessment is a performance-based, interactive lab. It evaluates real-world skills in incident management and KQL Advanced Hunting. There are no multiple-choice questions; success is determined by completing tasks within the live environment.
How long is the SC-5004: Defend Against Cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR credential valid?
The Microsoft Applied Skills: Defend Against Cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR credential provides lifetime validity. It does not expire, and no renewal fees are required. This ensures permanent, verifiable recognition of your technical proficiency in modern threat protection and security operations.
What post-training support follows SC-5004: Defend Against Cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR?
Koenig supports your SC-5004: Defend Against Cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR journey with 6 months of recorded session access. We provide optional live doubt-clearing sessions, expert mentor guidance, updated course materials, and exclusive access to community forums for ongoing professional development.
What are the prerequisites for SC-5004: Defend Against Cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR?
Learners should have experience with the Microsoft Defender portal, Microsoft Defender for Endpoint, and Microsoft Sentinel. Familiarity with Kusto Query Language (KQL) is essential. We strongly recommend prior experience in investigating endpoint threats and managing security incidents before starting SC-5004.
What career growth follows SC-5004: Defend Against Cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR?
SC-5004: Defend Against Cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR prepares you for Security Operations Analyst roles. Average U.S. salaries range from $75,000 to $110,000. This credential validates your hands-on threat detection skills, significantly increasing your employability within high-demand cybersecurity and SOC teams.
Why choose Koenig for SC-5004: Defend Against Cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR over self-study?
Koenig’s instructor-led SC-5004: Defend Against Cyberthreats with Microsoft Defender XDR training provides structured learning, real-time labs, and expert mentorship. You gain guided practice in Microsoft Defender XDR environments and immediate doubt resolution, creating exam-ready workflows that are unavailable through free online self-study resources.
100%

Happiness Guarantee

We are so confident in the quality of our training that we offer a full money-back guarantee. Not satisfied? Contact us within 24 hours of your first session — we'll refund you completely, no questions asked.

Full Refund

Within 24 hours

No Questions

Asked ever

Secure Payment

Encrypted checkout

PCI DSS

Compliant