Unable to Connect to Lab Environment During Microsoft Applied Skills Assessment

If you are unable to connect to the lab environment during your Microsoft Applied Skills Assessment, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take:

1. Check Network Latency: Ensure that your network latency is within acceptable limits. Good latency is between 100 - 250 milliseconds. Higher latency can cause sluggishness or non-responsiveness in the lab environment.
2. Run a Speed Test: Conduct a connection assessment test to measure your throughput speed and packet quality. This can help identify if there are issues with your connection that may affect your lab experience.
3. Use a Wired Connection: If possible, switch to a hardwired connection instead of Wi-Fi, as Wi-Fi can introduce higher latency and packet loss.
4. Review Security Software: Temporarily disable any third-party antivirus or firewall software that may be interfering with your connection to the lab.
5. Check Firewall Settings: Ensure that port 443 is open for inbound and outbound traffic, as this is necessary for the lab environment to function properly.
6. Try a Different Device or Browser: If you are using a work-issued device, try accessing the lab from a personal device. Additionally, switching to a different web browser may help if there are compatibility issues.

If you continue to experience issues, it may be beneficial to consult your IT department, especially if you are on a managed network, to ensure all connectivity requirements are met.

References:

• Assessment lab frequently asked questions
• Troubleshoot connectivity issues with Azure Lab Services

I am currently taking the "Get Started with Classes, Properties, and Methods in C#" assessment in the Microsoft Applied Skills program. After spending 1 hour on the test, I am still unable to connect to the lab environment, which is preventing me from continuing the assessment.

I have already tried several troubleshooting steps:

Checked my network latency (within acceptable limits).

Conducted a speed test, and my internet connection is stable.

Tried switching to a wired connection to improve stability.

Disabled my antivirus/firewall temporarily to rule out any interference.

Ensured that port 443 is open for inbound and outbound traffic.

Used a different browser, but the issue persists.

Despite these steps, the lab environment still doesn't load, and I haven't received any specific error messages. My internet connection is stable, and I’m using Microsoft’s online platform for the assessment.

This issue began as soon as I started the test and has been ongoing.

Try credentials support: https://v4.hkg1.meaqua.org/en-us/credentials/support/help

Or create a support request:

https://www.aka.ms/credentialssupport