AWS vs Azure Fundamentals Exams: A Head-to-Head Comparison
So, you’re looking to get cloud certified? Excellent choice! Two of the most popular entry-level cloud certifications are the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner and the Microsoft Azure Fundamentals. But which one is right for you? Let’s break down the key differences and similarities to help you decide.
What are these Exams?
- AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner (CLF-C01): This certification validates foundational cloud concepts, AWS services, security, architecture, and pricing. It’s designed for individuals with a basic understanding of IT services and cloud computing.
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900): This certification proves foundational knowledge of cloud concepts, Azure services, security, privacy, compliance, and trust. It’s aimed at individuals with both technical and non-technical backgrounds.
Key Comparison Points
| Feature | AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner | Microsoft Azure Fundamentals |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Code | CLF-C01 | AZ-900 |
| Target Audience | Individuals with basic IT/Cloud understanding | Individuals with technical/non-technical backgrounds |
| Exam Format | Multiple choice, multiple response | Multiple choice |
| Exam Duration | 90 minutes | 60 minutes (plus optional 30 min extension for non-native English speakers) |
| Number of Questions | 65 | Typically 40-60 |
| Passing Score | AWS doesn’t publish a specific score, but it’s generally considered to be around 70% | Typically 700 out of 1000 |
| Cost | $100 USD | $99 USD |
| Content Focus | AWS services, global infrastructure, security, pricing | Azure services, security, privacy, compliance, trust |
| Renewal | Requires recertification every 3 years | No renewal required |
Exam Content Breakdown
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner Exam Domains:
- Cloud Concepts: (26%) - Understanding cloud computing definitions, models, and benefits.
- Security: (25%) - AWS security best practices, compliance, and shared responsibility model.
- Technology: (33%) - AWS core services (compute, storage, databases, networking), deployment and operation.
- Billing and Pricing: (16%) - AWS pricing models, cost optimization, and billing support.
Microsoft Azure Fundamentals Exam Domains:
- Describe Cloud Concepts: (25-30%) - Cloud computing definitions, benefits, and models.
- Describe Azure Architecture and Services: (35-40%) - Azure core services, infrastructure, management tools.
- Describe Azure Management and Governance: (30-35%) - Azure cost management, security, compliance, and governance features.
Which Exam Should You Take?
The choice between AWS and Azure Fundamentals depends on your career goals and interests:
- Choose AWS if: You are interested in a career focused on AWS services and infrastructure. You want to understand the AWS ecosystem thoroughly. You plan to pursue higher-level AWS certifications.
- Choose Azure if: You are interested in a career focused on Microsoft’s cloud offerings. Your organization primarily uses Azure. You want a broad understanding of cloud concepts applicable to various platforms, including Azure.
Exam Preparation Tips
- Study Guides: Utilize official AWS and Microsoft documentation, online courses (like those on A Cloud Guru, Udemy, or Coursera), and practice exams.
- Hands-on Experience: The best way to learn is by doing. Sign up for a free tier account on AWS or Azure and experiment with the services.
- Practice Exams: Take practice exams to identify your strengths and weaknesses. Platforms like Kwizy can help you test your knowledge and prepare effectively. Many great free practice exams exist online as well.
- Focus on Core Concepts: Understand the fundamental cloud concepts, pricing models, security principles, and core services of the chosen platform.
- Review Case Studies: Analyze real-world use cases to understand how the different services are applied in practice.
Conclusion
Both the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner and the Microsoft Azure Fundamentals exams are valuable certifications for individuals looking to enter the cloud computing field. By understanding the key differences and content focus of each exam, you can make an informed decision and choose the certification that best aligns with your career aspirations. Good luck on your cloud certification journey!