AWS Solutions Architect Associate vs CompTIA Security+
Which certification is right for your career? Here's the full breakdown.
Amazon Web Services
AWS Solutions Architect Associate
SAA-C03
The most sought-after cloud certification — covers designing resilient, high-performing, cost-optimised AWS architectures.
Full guide →CompTIA
CompTIA Security+
SY0-701
Entry-level cybersecurity certification covering core security concepts, threats, vulnerabilities, and incident response.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | AWS Solutions Architect Associate | CompTIA Security+ |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$300 USD | $404 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$18,000/yr | +$8,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 130 min | 90 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | Amazon Web Services | CompTIA |
| Difficulty | Intermediate | Beginner |
AWS Solutions Architect Associate — Prerequisites
AWS Cloud Practitioner recommended, 1 year hands-on AWS experience
CompTIA Security+ — Prerequisites
None required, CompTIA Network+ recommended
Get AWS Solutions Architect Associate if…
- •You have 2–3 years of IT experience and want to specialise
- •You want a +$18,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from Amazon Web Services
Get CompTIA Security+ if…
- •You're entering cybersecurity and need a recognised entry point
- •You want a +$8,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from CompTIA
Best AWS Solutions Architect Associate courses
Best CompTIA Security+ courses
Frequently asked questions
Is AWS Solutions Architect Associate harder than CompTIA Security+?
AWS Solutions Architect Associate is harder — rated intermediate vs beginner.
Which pays more — AWS Solutions Architect Associate or CompTIA Security+?
AWS Solutions Architect Associate has an average salary uplift of +$18,000/yr, while CompTIA Security+ has +$8,000/yr. AWS Solutions Architect Associate has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — AWS Solutions Architect Associate or CompTIA Security+?
CompTIA Security+ is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward AWS Solutions Architect Associate.