Certifications: CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 vs. AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Professional
Quick Verdict
Both certifications are valuable, but cater to different career paths and skill sets.
- Security+ is geared towards cybersecurity roles, while AWS Solutions Architect is focused on cloud architecture.
- Both certifications are challenging and require hands-on experience.
- AWS Solutions Architect has a lower exam cost but requires recertification.
Key features – Side-by-Side
| Attribute | CompTIA Security+ SY0-701 | AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Professional |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Difficulty | Challenging, especially for those new to cybersecurity. Expected to be more challenging than the SY0-601. | Challenging, requires in-depth knowledge and the ability to apply it to complex scenarios |
| Exam Cost | Approximately $370 - $404 USD | $300 USD |
| Renewal Requirements | Valid for three years. Renewal fee of $50 USD per year (totaling $150 USD over three years). Requires earning Continuing Education Units (CEUs). | Recertification is required every three years by passing the latest version of the exam or earning another qualifying AWS Certification, such as the AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate. |
| Hands-on Experience Required | Yes, the exam focuses on hands-on solutions and performance-based questions. CompTIA recommends having hands-on experience with technical information security. | Extensive hands-on experience with AWS services is crucial for passing the exam. |
| Target Audience | Individuals wanting to start or advance their cybersecurity careers. IT professionals with at least two years of experience as security or systems administrators. | Individuals performing a solutions architect role with at least two years of hands-on experience designing and deploying cloud architectures on AWS. Suited for cloud security and application architects. |
Overall Comparison
Difficulty: Both Challenging; Cost: AWS Cheaper; Focus: Security+ vs. Cloud Architecture
Pros and Cons
CompTIA Security+ SY0-701
Pros:
- Globally recognized certification
- Aligns with cybersecurity roles
- Provides foundational skills for entry-level cybersecurity roles
- Approved by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD)
Cons:
- Considered challenging, especially for those new to cybersecurity
- Requires renewal fees and Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Professional
Pros:
- Highly recognized and respected within the IT industry
- Validates skills in designing scalable, cost-effective, and high-performance AWS solutions
- Can significantly boost career prospects and earning potential
Cons:
- Considered a challenging exam
- Requires extensive hands-on experience with AWS services
User Experiences and Feedback
CompTIA Security+ SY0-701
What Users Love
- No highlights reported.
Common Complaints
- No major complaints reported.
Value Perception
- No value feedback reported.
AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Professional
What Users Love
- No highlights reported.
Common Complaints
- No major complaints reported.
Value Perception
- No value feedback reported.