Azure Fundamentals vs CISSP
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 →(ISC)²
CISSP
CISSP
Gold-standard senior security certification covering 8 domains including risk management, architecture, and cryptography.
Full guide →Side-by-side comparison
| Category | Azure Fundamentals | CISSP |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$165 USD | $749 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$6,000/yr | ✓+$22,000/yr |
| Exam duration | 65 min | 240 min |
| Renewal period | Every 2 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | Microsoft | (ISC)² |
| Difficulty | Beginner | Advanced |
Azure Fundamentals — Prerequisites
None required
CISSP — Prerequisites
5 years paid work experience in 2+ of 8 CISSP domains
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 CISSP if…
- •You're aiming for senior or management roles in security
- •You want a +$22,000/yr salary boost
- •You prefer credentials from (ISC)²
Best Azure Fundamentals courses
Best CISSP courses
Frequently asked questions
Is Azure Fundamentals harder than CISSP?
CISSP is harder — rated advanced vs beginner.
Which pays more — Azure Fundamentals or CISSP?
Azure Fundamentals has an average salary uplift of +$6,000/yr, while CISSP has +$22,000/yr. CISSP has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — Azure Fundamentals or CISSP?
Azure Fundamentals is the better starting point — it's rated beginner and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward CISSP.