Azure Fundamentals vs AWS Cloud Practitioner
Which certification is right for your career? Here's the full breakdown.
Microsoft
Azure Fundamentals
AZ-900
Microsoft's entry-level Azure certification covering cloud concepts, core Azure services, security, privacy, and pricing.
Full guide →Amazon Web Services
AWS Cloud Practitioner
CLF-C02
Entry-level AWS certification validating foundational cloud concepts, core services, security, and pricing models.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | Azure Fundamentals | AWS Cloud Practitioner |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $165 USD | ✓$100 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$6,000/yr | ✓+$8,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 65 min | 90 min |
| Renewal period | Every 2 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | Microsoft | Amazon Web Services |
| Difficulty | Beginner | Beginner |
Azure Fundamentals — Prerequisites
None required
AWS Cloud Practitioner — Prerequisites
None required
Get Azure Fundamentals if…
- •You're entering cybersecurity and need a recognised entry point
- •You want a +$6,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from Microsoft
Get AWS Cloud Practitioner if…
- •You're entering cybersecurity and need a recognised entry point
- •You want a +$8,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from Amazon Web Services
Best Azure Fundamentals courses
Best AWS Cloud Practitioner courses
Frequently asked questions
Is Azure Fundamentals harder than AWS Cloud Practitioner?
Both Azure Fundamentals and AWS Cloud Practitioner are rated beginner difficulty.
Which pays more — Azure Fundamentals or AWS Cloud Practitioner?
Azure Fundamentals has an average salary uplift of +$6,000/yr, while AWS Cloud Practitioner has +$8,000/yr. AWS Cloud Practitioner has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — Azure Fundamentals or AWS Cloud Practitioner?
Azure Fundamentals is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward AWS Cloud Practitioner.