Comparing Between Azure and AWS training & certification: A must-read

Introduction

Adding a cloud certification to your resume can fuel your career graph to greater heights. Put simply, cloud experts are one of the most sought-after professionals today. If you are aspiring to build a successful career in networking, you are on the right track. However, cloud beginners are often confused about choosing the most compatible one between AWS training and certification and Azure certification. While the majority backs AWS owing to its fast-rising commercial use, a significant number are focusing on other cloud certifications.
Both AWS and Azure share crucial similarities but there are also stark differences between the two; you have to be mindful about selecting the right one that will align with your skill sets and career aspirations.
This is where the blog will come to your help. We have put up a comprehensive guide here that will aid you in choosing the best certifications for cloud computing.

Overview of AWS Certification

As reported by Forbes, 82% of global enterprises have migrated to AWS convenience. On the other hand, Microsoft Azure dominates the second position with 67% of corporate usage. Broad adoption of AWS has naturally fueled the need for AWS-certified professionals. If the latest job market statistics are to be believed, then 82% of hiring managers are actively looking for cloud professionals with AWS proficiency - preferably an AWS cloud computing certification.

List of AWS certifications

1. Foundational Certification AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner:

This entry-level AWS certification ensures a candidate's general proficiency in the AWS cloud environment.
Requirement: At least 6 months of experience in any role (technical, managerial, etc) Exam format: Multiple choice and response questions Time: 90 minutes Cost: 8,349.34 INR (as of 2024)
Scopes Covered:
• Understanding of the basic AWS architectural principle
• The value proposition of AWS cloud
• Key AWS services and their use cases
• Basic AWS security and compliance
• Core deployment and operating principles
• Cloud costs and billing practices



2. Associate-Level Certifications AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate (SAA-C03):

The certification certifies that the candidate has the necessary skills to design, deploy, and manage AWS applications. This accreditation is intended for those experienced in designing distributed applications and tests their ability to manage and implement solutions using AWS services. The exam's August 2022 update introduced additional AWS services and best practices.
Exam format: Multiple choice and response questions Time: 130 minutes Cost: 12,515.00 INR (as of 2024)
Scopes Covered:
• Network technologies and their mechanism in AWS
• Mechanism of AWS applications and how do client interfaces link to the AWS platform
• Ways to build secure and reliable applications on the AWS platform
• Deployment of Hybrid system
• Key areas of the exam involve designing resilient, scalable, and high-performance systems, which necessitates familiarity with AWS infrastructure and concepts. It also covers AWS implementation and deployment, AWS-centric data security practices, and methods for cost optimisation.



3. AWS Certified Developer – Associate

The Associate certification tests your ability to develop and sustain AWS-based apps. You'll be required to write code that leverages AWS software to integrate AWS services into your custom applications.
Exam format: Multiple choice and response questions Time: 130 minutes Cost: 12,515.00 INR (as of 2024)
Scopes Covered:
• Understanding of the basic AWS architecture and core AWS services
• Real-world expertise in designing, building, launching, debugging, and supporting applications
• Deployment of key AWS services for databases, notifications, workflows, storage, and change management



4. AWS Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate

This foundational course is designed for the system administrators. To qualify for this exam, aspirants need to have both technical and conceptual knowledge of AWS, preferably with knowledge of Linux or Windows administrator.
Exam format: Multiple choice, response questions, and exam lab Time: 180 minutes Cost: 12,515.00 INR (as of 2024)
After completion of any of the foundational courses, aspirants can move to Professional-level certifications, such
• AWS Certified Solutions Architect
• AWS Certified DevOps Engineer, OR

Specialty certifications, such as:
• AWS Certified Data Analytics
• AWS Certified Advanced Networking
• AWS Certified Security
• AWS Certified Machine Learning
• AWS Certified Database
• AWS Certified SAP on AWS

Obtaining any of these certifications will greatly enhance your resume's credibility with potential employers.

Overview of Azure Cloud Certification:

Azure Cloud Certification is designed to validate your expertise in using Microsoft Azure, one of the leading cloud computing platforms. This certification covers a broad range of topics, including cloud concepts, core Azure services, security, privacy, compliance, and trust. By earning this certification, you'll demonstrate your ability to manage Azure resources, implement and manage storage, deploy and manage Azure compute resources, configure and manage virtual networks, and monitor and back up Azure resources.
Microsoft Azure Cloud Certification is highly valuable for IT professionals, developers, and system administrators looking to enhance their cloud skills and advance their careers. Whether you're new to cloud computing or want to deepen your Azure expertise, this certification unlocks immense opportunities for career growth and boosts your competitive edge.

List of Azure Certifications

Here is a quick snapshot of Azure certifications for every level.

1. Azure AI Fundamentals (AI-900): Validates your AI skills on the cloud as well as the fundamental knowledge of Azure services.
2. Azure Data Fundamentals (DP-900): Helps you build a stronger foundation in core concepts of data and data analytics.
3. Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900): Demonstrates your cloud knowledge, models, services, and Azure expertise.

Featuring next are eleven associate-level Azure certifications:

1. Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104): Harnessing proficiency in handling an organisation's Azure cloud services.
2. Azure AI Engineer Associate (AZ-102): Assists learners in building, overseeing, and launching AI solutions with Azure.
3. Azure Data Engineer Associate (DP-203): Managing datasets for analysis, and handling data storage.
4. Azure Data Fundamentals (DP-900): Aids learners to work with data in the cloud.
5. Azure Data Scientist Associate (DP-100): This certification deals with exploring data science using Azure machine learning and Databricks.
6. Azure Database Administrator Associate (DP-300): The certification deals with the operational aspects of a data platform built on Microsoft SQL Server and Microsoft Azure Data Services.
7. Azure Developer Associate (AZ-204): Enhance cloud developer experience and learn about cloud computing and storage.
8. Azure Enterprise Data Analyst Associate (DP-500): This certification is designed to help learners gain expertise in data analytics solutions, and designing, creating, and deploying them.
9. Azure Network Engineer Associate (AZ-700): Validates your knowledge and skills in planning, implementing, and maintaining Azure network solutions.
10. Azure Security Engineer Associate (AZ-500): Helps learners gain knowledge in planning and implementing cloud-based management and security, experience in code, security operation processes, cloud potential, and Azure services.
11. Azure Stack Hub Operator Associate (AZ-600): Accredits a candidate’s skill in platform-as-a-service (PaaS) and Infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS) by using Azure Stack Hub.

Summing up the classification with two Expert-level Azure certifications:

1. Azure DevOps Engineer Expert (AZ-400): Designed to build experience as an infrastructure administrator or developer, with expertise in DevOps, Azure administration, and development.
2. Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305): Offers cloud designing and hybrid solutions that run on Microsoft Azure. The Certification also demonstrates knowledge & skill in IT operations, Azure administration, Azure development, and DevOps processes.

Comparative study between the two

AWS and Azure certifications are highly sought-after in the cloud computing industry, assuring lucrative package for professionals. AWS, being the top cloud provider, provides a robust certification track suitable for both newcomers and seasoned experts. However, both certifications are recognised globally, opening doors to a multitude of career opportunities, competitive benefits, and attractive compensation packages.

Conclusion

AWS training & certification and Azure certifications are pivotal for cloud professionals aiming to excel in today's competitive landscape. AWS, the leading cloud provider, offers a comprehensive and globally recognised certification path suitable for all levels of expertise. Enrolling in the AWS Solution Architect certification course can be a game-changer in advancing your career in the cloud. Azure, with its robust enterprise solutions, also provides valuable certifications aligned with Microsoft's ecosystem.
Both AWS and Azure certifications bolster resumes, enhance skills, and pave the way for proliferating career advancements. Choosing between them often hinges on career goals, organisational needs, and desired cloud specialisation in this rapidly evolving field.