AWS Cloud Practitioner
Entry-level AWS certification validating foundational cloud concepts, core services, security, and pricing models.
Full guide →CompTIA Security+
Entry-level cybersecurity certification covering core security concepts, threats, vulnerabilities, and incident response.
Full guide →AWS Cloud Practitioner vs CompTIA Security+
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | AWS Cloud Practitioner | CompTIA Security+ |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$100 USD | $404 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$8,000/yr | +$8,000/yr |
| Passing score | 700/1000 | 750/1000 |
| Exam duration | 90 min | 90 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | Amazon Web Services | CompTIA |
| Difficulty |
AWS Cloud Practitioner
None required
CompTIA Security+
None required, CompTIA Network+ recommended
- You're new to cloud and want a foundational credential from AWS
- You want a potential +$8,000/yr salary uplift
- Your organisation runs on AWS and you need the recognised entry-level credential
- You're entering IT security and need a globally recognised, vendor-neutral credential
- You want a potential +$8,000/yr salary uplift
- You prefer credentials that work across vendors, not tied to one platform
AWS Cloud Practitioner and CompTIA Security+ lead to entirely different careers — cloud computing vs cybersecurity. The right choice depends on which field aligns with your current job or target role. If you want both eventually, start with AWS Cloud Practitioner — it's the quicker win at the beginner level.
Best AWS Cloud Practitioner courses
Best CompTIA Security+ courses
Is AWS Cloud Practitioner harder than CompTIA Security+?
Both AWS Cloud Practitioner and CompTIA Security+ are rated beginner difficulty.
Which pays more — AWS Cloud Practitioner or CompTIA Security+?
AWS Cloud Practitioner has an average salary uplift of +$8,000/yr, while CompTIA Security+ has +$8,000/yr. AWS Cloud Practitioner has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — AWS Cloud Practitioner or CompTIA Security+?
AWS Cloud Practitioner is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward CompTIA Security+.
Can I get both AWS Cloud Practitioner and CompTIA Security+?
Yes — many professionals hold both. AWS Cloud Practitioner and CompTIA Security+ complement each other, covering cloud computing and cybersecurity respectively. Holding both signals broader expertise and typically commands a higher salary than either cert alone.
Which is worth it in 2026 — AWS Cloud Practitioner or CompTIA Security+?
Both are worth it in 2026. AWS Cloud Practitioner offers a +$8,000/yr average salary uplift; CompTIA Security+ offers +$8,000/yr. AWS Cloud Practitioner has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.