AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner vs. AZ 900

Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure are the market leaders in cloud computing market. Since every companies are migrating their datacenter to cloud platform, the demand for the cloud computing jobs are very high. Certifications are the industry standard to recognise a knowledge on specific skills. 

AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification (CLF-C02) is the fundamental exam from AWS. Whereas Azure Fundamentals Exam (AZ 900) is the beginner level exam from Azure. In this blog we will explain which of the exams suitable for you. 

But before that, let’s sneak peek into the two certifications—it’s time to dig in. 

Overview of AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner Certification

AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification or CLF-C02 exam is tailor-made for individuals aiming to demonstrate a solid understanding of the AWS Cloud, irrespective of their job role.

In the CLF-CO2 exam, you will showcase your ability to:

• Clearly explain the value of the AWS Cloud.
• Grasp and articulate the AWS shared responsibility model.
• Implement security best practices.
• Comprehend AWS Cloud costs, economics, and billing practices.
• Describe critical AWS services in computing, networking, databases, and storage.
• Identify AWS services suitable for everyday use cases.

To be eligible for AWS CCP certification, you must have six months of experience in AWS Cloud design, implementation, or operations.

What sets this certification apart is its suitability for candidates with non-IT backgrounds. If you are in the early phases of stepping into an AWS Cloud career or collaborating with professionals in AWS Cloud roles, this certification is tailored for you.

To make the most out of this certification, it is recommended that you have a grasp of crucial AWS knowledge in the following areas:

• AWS Cloud concepts
• Security and compliance in the AWS Cloud
• Core AWS services
• Understanding the economics of the AWS Cloud

The AZ-900 certification course covers four domains: 

Why should you go for the CLF-C02 exam? 

AWS is your ultimate gateway, offering a rite of passage for tech-savvy individuals to launch their careers. AWS exams aren’t just about a title on your resume; they equip you with the technical prowess needed to be a true professional expert. As an AWS Certified Solutions Associate, you could earn an impressive average of USD 159,033 p.a.

Here’s the kicker: the AWS CCP certification isn’t confined to mere technical roles. Whether in finance, management, or a business position, the CLF-C02 exam will help you pivot seamlessly into a cloud-centric career.

So, what’s in it for you? Let’s talk benefits:

• Credibility: AWS certification boosts your credibility and recognition with employers.
• Job Prospects: Opens up many job opportunities and avenues for career advancement.
• Salary: A certified AWS professional often commands higher wages in the industry.
• Expertise: Elevates your expertise, marking you as a skilled AWS practitioner.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Sharpens your problem-solving skills in the dynamic realm of AWS.
• Community: Being AWS certified provides access to a global community of professionals, fostering networking and collaboration.

Also Read: Top Hands-On Labs To Prepare For AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner Certification

The Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals Certification (AZ-900 exam) 

Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals certification (AZ-900 exam) is your ticket to validating your foundational knowledge of cloud concepts, explicitly focusing on Azure.

As a candidate for AZ-900 certification, you’ll demonstrate your ability to articulate Azure architectural components and services, from computing and networking to storage. Moreover, you’ll showcase your familiarity with features and tools crucial for securing, governing, and administering Azure environments.

This certification is an excellent addition if you’re already working in an IT domain, be it infrastructure management, database management, or software development. While it serves as a solid foundation for other Azure role-based or specialty certifications, here’s the best part—it’s not a prerequisite for any of them. 

However, for a seamless journey toward this certification, it’s recommended that you possess skills and hands-on experience in specific IT domains, such as:

• IT Infrastructure Management
• Database Management
• Software Development

The AZ-900 exam covers three domains: 

Why should you go for the AZ-900 exam?

Earning an AZ-900 Certification can significantly enhance your resume, making it stand out to potential employers. Certifications from industry giants like Microsoft not only showcase your proficiency in cloud computing models, governance strategies, and migration but also align with the growing trend of skill-based hiring.

Here’s why this certification can be a game-changer:

In-Demand Skills: With many companies transitioning to cloud-based solutions, there’s a rising demand for professionals with cloud expertise. Your AZ-900 Certification positions you as a valuable asset in this evolving landscape.

Fundamental Knowledge Boost: Whether you are entering the field with little or no IT experience, the AZ-900 certification smoothens your journey into cloud computing. It strengthens your foundational knowledge, serving as an excellent precursor to advanced certifications.

Informed Decision-Making: Microsoft Azure spans various specializations, from administration and solution development to security technologies and data/AI. Acquiring Azure Fundamentals helps you pinpoint your interests, enabling you to make informed decisions about your career path and specialization.

Salary Enhancement: The AZ-900 certification isn’t just a title; it’s a catalyst for career growth. It empowers you to take on more responsibilities, especially in organizations leveraging cloud computing. For those starting their cloud computing careers, it becomes a stepping stone to lucrative positions.

Similarities between AWS CCP certifications and Azure Fundamentals certification

The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification and Microsoft Certified Azure Fundamentals certification share several common characteristics, serving as introductory certifications for their respective cloud platforms. Here are key parallels between the two:

1. Foundational Level: Both certifications are tailored for individuals with limited or no prior experience in cloud computing, providing a foundational understanding of fundamental concepts and services.
2. General Cloud Knowledge: Both certifications cover core cloud computing concepts, including various cloud models (public, private, hybrid), fundamental services, and essential cloud-related terminology.
3. Versatility in Roles: AWS CCP and Azure Fundamentals certifications are not exclusive to technical roles. They are recommended for individuals in both technical and non-technical positions, making them accessible to a diverse range of professionals.
4. No Prerequisites: Neither certification demands prior cloud experience or the possession of other certifications. They act as entry points for individuals starting their journey into cloud technology.
5. Focus on Core Services: Both certifications highlight essential cloud services, particularly computing, networking, and storage. They offer a broad overview of the significant services each respective cloud provider provides.
6. Career Launchpad: Recognized by employers, both certifications prove foundational cloud knowledge. They can enhance resumes and pave the way for entry-level roles in cloud computing.

AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner vs Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals

The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner CLF-C02 and Microsoft Certified Azure Fundamentals certifications, while serving as entry-level certifications for their respective cloud platforms, have differences in terms of focus, content, and the specific cloud services they cover. Here are the key distinctions between the two:

Job Outlook and Career Prospects: AWS CCP certification vs Microsoft Certified Azure fundamentals 

The role of a Cloud Practitioner stands as one of the most prevalent and crucial positions essential for overseeing the operations of the AWS cloud.

AWS currently commands a 32% market share among prominent cloud service providers, trusted by industry giants such as Facebook, Netflix, Adobe, and the BBC to drive their pivotal endeavors. 

Even for professionals in technical roles involving alternative cloud platforms like Azure, Google Cloud Platform, or IBM Watson, proficiency in AWS could significantly broaden employment prospects. Consequently, AWS Cloud Practitioners enjoy competitive compensation, making it a rewarding avenue in the ever-expanding realm of cloud technologies.

In India, if you have the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification, you might earn between Rs. 12,97,000 and Rs. 14,16,000.

In the United States, a certified AWS cloud practitioner can expect to make around $160,000 to $180,000 per year, according to PayScale. These numbers highlight the good pay that comes with AWS certification, showing how valued cloud skills are in the job market.

On the other hand, speaking of the AZ-900 certification, according to estimates from AAG, Microsoft Azure is projected to secure a market share of 23% in Q4 2022.

By 2023, it is anticipated to become the second-largest global cloud service, surpassing Google Cloud Platform (GCP) in revenue by threefold. Notably, Microsoft Azure is making significant strides to close the gap with its primary competitor, AWS. This underlines the dynamic and competitive landscape within the cloud computing industry.

Read More: Types of AZ:900 Jobs You Will get After Completing the AZ-900 Certification

However, you can enhance your negotiating power for a higher salary by combining multiple Azure certifications or relevant expertise with other cloud platforms. Stay updated on the latest Azure features and technology to strengthen your position in pay negotiations, especially when discussing salaries for Microsoft Azure Data Fundamentals.

Your active engagement with the most recent advancements in Azure not only bolsters your skills but also empowers you to present a compelling case for a competitive salary that reflects your expertise.

On average, this is the pay structure for AZ-900 certified professionals: 

• Entry-Level: $40,000 – $70,000 
• Mid-Level with intermediate experience: $55,000 – $90,000 
• Senior-Level with strong domain expertise: $75,000 – $120,000 
• Expert-Level with pro skills: $100,000 – $150,000 

Factors to consider when choosing between AWS CCP certification and Azure Fundamentals certification

When deciding between AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner (CCP) and Microsoft Certified Azure Fundamentals, several factors come into play. 

Summary

Hope this blog helps you decode AWS Cloud Practitioner Certification (CLF-C02 exam) and Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals Certification (AZ-900 exam). We have covered the intricate details of the two cert courses, how they are similar, AWS CCP vs. Azure Fundamentals, job and salary outlook, and factors to consider when choosing one. 

Talking of which, both certifications come with certain benefits and challenges and lay the foundation for your cloud journey. One of the significant elements to consider here is deciding which cloud domain you want to build your proficiency. While both cover the basic cloud concepts, most courses focus on individual service nuances and follow different learning and evaluation approaches.

To make this process easier, Whizlabs brings you detailed training programs for AWS CCP and Azure Fundamentals. Check out our practice papers, video lectures designed by industry experts, hands-on labs, and sandboxes to understand and gain a comprehensive knowledge of the cloud infrastructure. 

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About Karthikeyani Velusamy

Karthikeyani is an accomplished Technical Content Writer with 3 years of experience in the field where she holds Bachelor's degree in Electronics and Communication Engineering. She is well-versed in core skills such as creative writing, web publications, portfolio creation for articles. Committed to delivering quality work that meets deadlines, she is dedicated to achieving exemplary standards in all her writing projects. With her creative skills and technical understanding, she is able to create engaging and informative content that resonates with her audience.

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