AWS Certifications

AWS Certifications

The demand for cloud computing expertise is growing rapidly, and as a result, there are several cloud certification programs available for IT professionals. In addition to AWS, Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud Platform are two other major cloud providers that offer certification programs. In this article, we will discuss how AWS certification compares to other cloud certifications like Azure and Google Cloud.

Certification Offerings

AWS currently offers 12 certifications across four certification tracks: Foundational, Associate, Professional, and Specialty. The certifications cover a range of topics, including cloud architecture, development, operations, security, and big data.

Microsoft Azure offers 15 certifications across four certification tracks: Fundamentals, Associate, Expert, and Specialty. The certifications cover a range of topics, including cloud administration, development, security, and AI.

Google Cloud Platform offers 10 certifications across three certification tracks: Associate, Professional, and User. The certifications cover a range of topics, including cloud architecture, development, security, and data engineering.

Exam Format

The exam format for AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud certifications is similar. The exams are multiple-choice and are designed to test the candidate’s knowledge and understanding of cloud services and concepts.

Exam Difficulty

The difficulty of the exams varies depending on the level of certification and the candidate’s knowledge and experience. AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud certifications all have a pass rate of around 65-85%.

Recertification Requirements

All three cloud providers require recertification to maintain certification status. AWS certifications are valid for three years, and candidates can recertify by retaking the exam, taking a professional-level exam, or earning continuing education credits. Azure certifications are valid for two years, and candidates can recertify by retaking the exam or earning continuing education credits. Google Cloud certifications are valid for two years, and candidates can recertify by retaking the exam or completing a certification program.

Which Certification to Choose?

When choosing a cloud certification program, it’s important to consider factors such as the cloud provider you are most familiar with, the type of work you are interested in, and your career goals. While all three certification programs are valuable, AWS has a larger market share and is more widely used in the enterprise market. Azure is also popular in the enterprise market, particularly in industries such as finance and healthcare. Google Cloud is popular among startups and companies in the tech industry.

In conclusion, AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud all offer certification programs for IT professionals looking to demonstrate their expertise in cloud computing. The exams are multiple-choice and are designed to test the candidate’s knowledge and understanding of cloud services and concepts. AWS has the largest market share and is more widely used in the enterprise market, while Azure is popular in industries such as finance and healthcare. Google Cloud is popular among startups and companies in the tech industry. When choosing a certification program, it’s important to consider factors such as your experience and career goals.

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AWS Certifications

AWS certifications are a valuable credential for individuals looking to demonstrate their expertise in AWS cloud computing. In addition to increasing their knowledge and understanding of AWS services and concepts, AWS certifications can have a positive impact on salary negotiations and career advancement opportunities. In this article, we will discuss how AWS certifications can help with salary negotiations and career advancement.

Salary Negotiations

AWS certifications can demonstrate a candidate’s expertise in AWS cloud computing, making them more marketable to employers. According to the Global Knowledge 2020 IT Skills and Salary Report, individuals with AWS certifications earn an average of 27% higher salaries than their non-certified counterparts.

When negotiating salary, AWS certifications can be used to demonstrate the candidate’s expertise in AWS services and concepts, which can increase their value to the organization. Additionally, AWS certifications can be used to negotiate for higher pay during promotions or when transitioning to a new job.

Career Advancement

AWS certifications can also open up career advancement opportunities for IT professionals. For example, holding the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate certification can demonstrate a candidate’s expertise in designing and implementing scalable, fault-tolerant, and highly available cloud architectures, making them a strong candidate for cloud architect or cloud engineering positions.

Additionally, AWS certifications can demonstrate a candidate’s commitment to continuous learning and professional development, which can be attractive to employers looking for individuals who are invested in their careers and the success of the organization.

By holding AWS certifications, IT professionals can position themselves for career advancement opportunities, including promotions, new job opportunities, and leadership roles within their organizations.

In conclusion, AWS certifications can have a positive impact on salary negotiations and career advancement opportunities for IT professionals. By demonstrating their expertise in AWS cloud computing, IT professionals can position themselves for higher salaries, promotions, and leadership roles within their organizations. Additionally, holding AWS certifications can demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and professional development, making them more marketable to employers.

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AWS Certifications

AWS certifications are a valuable credential for individuals looking to demonstrate their expertise in AWS cloud computing. However, before taking an AWS certification exam, it’s important to understand the prerequisites and requirements for each certification. In this article, we will discuss the prerequisites for taking an AWS certification exam.

AWS Certification Levels

AWS offers four levels of certifications: Foundational, Associate, Professional, and Specialty. The certifications cover a range of topics, including cloud architecture, development, operations, security, and big data.

Prerequisites for AWS Certification Exams

Each AWS certification exam has its own prerequisites, which vary depending on the level of certification. The prerequisites for each certification exam are outlined below:

Foundational Level: AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
There are no prerequisites for the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam.

Associate Level: AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate, AWS Certified Developer – Associate, AWS Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate
There are no formal prerequisites for the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate, AWS Certified Developer – Associate, or AWS Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate exams. However, it is recommended that candidates have at least six months of experience with AWS services and knowledge of basic AWS architecture principles.

Professional Level: AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional, AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional
Candidates must hold a current AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate or AWS Certified Developer – Associate certification to take the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional or AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional exam.

Specialty Level: AWS Certified Security – Specialty, AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty, AWS Certified Big Data – Specialty, AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty, AWS Certified Alexa Skill Builder – Specialty, AWS Certified Database – Specialty
There are no formal prerequisites for the AWS Certified Security – Specialty, AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty, AWS Certified Big Data – Specialty, AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty, AWS Certified Alexa Skill Builder – Specialty, or AWS Certified Database – Specialty exams. However, it is recommended that candidates have at least five years of experience in IT security, networking, or big data, depending on the exam.

Preparing for an AWS Certification Exam

Before taking an AWS certification exam, it’s important to review the exam guide provided by AWS and take relevant training courses and practice exams. Gaining hands-on experience with AWS services is also an important part of preparing for an AWS certification exam.

In conclusion, AWS certifications are a valuable credential for individuals looking to demonstrate their expertise in AWS cloud computing. The prerequisites for each AWS certification exam vary depending on the level of certification. It’s important to review the exam guide provided by AWS and take relevant training courses and practice exams to prepare for an AWS certification exam. By understanding the prerequisites and requirements for each certification, individuals can position themselves for success on the exam and in their careers.

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AWS Certifications

AWS certifications are a valuable credential for IT professionals looking to demonstrate their expertise in AWS cloud computing. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, many certification programs, including AWS, have transitioned to online testing options. In this article, we will discuss whether you can take AWS certification exams online or if you have to take them in-person.

Online Testing Options

AWS offers online testing options for many of their certification exams. Online testing allows candidates to take exams from the comfort of their own homes or offices, without having to travel to a testing center. Online testing is available for the following AWS certification exams:

AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate
AWS Certified Developer – Associate
AWS Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate
AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional
AWS Certified Security – Specialty
AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty
AWS Certified Database – Specialty
In-Person Testing Options

Some AWS certification exams are only available as in-person testing options. In-person testing allows candidates to take exams at a testing center, where they will be monitored by a proctor to ensure the integrity of the exam. In-person testing is required for the following AWS certification exams:

AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional
AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty
AWS Certified Big Data – Specialty
AWS Certified Alexa Skill Builder – Specialty
Exam Requirements

Whether you choose to take an AWS certification exam online or in-person, there are certain requirements that must be met. These requirements include:

A reliable internet connection
A compatible computer with a webcam and microphone
A private, quiet location to take the exam
A government-issued ID for identification purposes
Compliance with exam rules and regulations, such as not using prohibited materials or receiving assistance from others during the exam
Preparing for an AWS Certification Exam

Before taking an AWS certification exam, it’s important to review the exam guide provided by AWS and take relevant training courses and practice exams. Gaining hands-on experience with AWS services is also an important part of preparing for an AWS certification exam.

In conclusion, AWS offers both online and in-person testing options for their certification exams. Online testing is available for many of their certification exams, while some exams are only available as in-person testing options. Whether you choose to take an AWS certification exam online or in-person, it’s important to meet the exam requirements and prepare thoroughly for the exam. By understanding the testing options available and preparing appropriately, individuals can position themselves for success on the exam and in their careers.

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AWS Certifications

The AWS certification community is a vibrant and supportive group of professionals who are passionate about cloud computing and technology. AWS certified professionals can connect with others through various channels, including online forums, social media, and professional organizations. In this article, we will discuss what the AWS certification community is like and how you can connect with other certified professionals.

Community Support

The AWS certification community is supportive and welcoming to new members. Many certified professionals are eager to share their knowledge and experience with others and help them succeed in their certification journey. There are numerous resources available to help individuals prepare for certification exams, including study groups, practice exams, and online forums.

Professional Organizations

Professional organizations are a great way to connect with other AWS certified professionals and stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends and best practices. The AWS Community Builders program is a community-led initiative that provides resources and support for individuals looking to build skills and advance their careers in cloud computing. Other professional organizations, such as the AWS User Group, provide opportunities for networking and learning through local events and meetups.

Online Forums

Online forums, such as the AWS Certification Forum, are a great way to connect with other certified professionals and ask questions about AWS services and concepts. These forums are moderated by AWS experts and are a valuable resource for individuals preparing for certification exams.

Social Media

Social media platforms, such as LinkedIn and Twitter, are another way to connect with other certified professionals and stay up-to-date on industry news and events. Many AWS certified professionals use social media to share their experiences and insights, as well as to connect with other professionals in the industry.

AWS re:Invent

AWS re:Invent is an annual conference hosted by AWS that brings together cloud computing professionals from around the world. The conference features keynote speeches, technical sessions, and networking opportunities, making it an excellent opportunity for certified professionals to connect with others in the industry and learn about the latest trends and best practices in cloud computing.

In conclusion, the AWS certification community is a supportive and welcoming group of professionals who are passionate about cloud computing and technology. Certified professionals can connect with others through various channels, including online forums, social media, and professional organizations. By joining the AWS certification community, individuals can stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices, build their skills and knowledge, and connect with others who share their passion for cloud computing.

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