Navigating Microsoft Azure and AWS Certifications: What You Need to Know

Microsoft and AWS are two of the most prominent cloud vendors in the market today, each offering a range of certifications to help professionals validate their cloud expertise. While both companies provide cloud services and certification paths, achieving success in one certification does not automatically translate to an equivalent level in the other. This article will explore the differences between Microsoft Azure and AWS certifications, particularly focusing on the Azure 70-535 certification and whether it equates to the AWS Solution Architect certification. We will also discuss whether any additional exams are required after clearing Azure 70-535.

Understanding Microsoft Azure Certifications

Microsoft Azure offers a robust certification path, with the Azure 70-535 being a popular choice for individuals looking to gain knowledge in Azure solutions and architecture. This certification focuses on deploying and managing Azure solutions and demonstrates that individuals have the necessary skills to design, implement, and manage solutions in the Microsoft Azure cloud platform.

The AWS Solution Architect Path

AWS offers two main levels of the Solution Architect certification: the AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate (AWS SA-001) and the AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Professional (AWS SA-002). This path is designed to help professionals gain advanced skills in designing, deploying, and managing scalable cloud architectures using AWS services.

Do the Certifications Align?

While both the Azure 70-535 and the AWS Solution Architect certifications provide valuable cloud knowledge, it is important to note that these certifications assess skills in different ways and have different focuses. The Azure 70-535 specifically targets Azure services and solutions, while the AWS Solution Architect certifications target broader architecture and design principles across AWS services.

Comparing Azure 70-535 and AWS Solution Architect Certifications

1. Scope and Focus: The Azure 70-535 certification is narrower in scope, concentrating on deploying and managing Azure solutions and services. On the other hand, the AWS Solution Architect certifications cover a wider range of topics, including architecture design, scalability, and best practices applicable to AWS services.

2. Requirements for Passing: To pass the Azure 70-535 certification, candidates need to demonstrate their knowledge and skills through a written exam. In contrast, the AWS Solution Architect certifications require both a written exam and hands-on lab assessments to ensure candidates have practical skills in addition to theoretical knowledge.

Is Another Exam Required After Clearing Azure 70-535?

Clearing the Azure 70-535 certification does not automatically make the certifications equivalent, as the AWS Solution Architect certifications have different requirements and evaluative criteria. However, clearing the Azure 70-535 does provide a strong foundation in cloud solutions and architecture. If you are looking to transition to the AWS Solution Architect certifications, you would need to pass the AWS SA-001 or SA-002 exams, which require passing both a written exam and a hands-on lab assessment.

Conclusion

While the Azure 70-535 certification is a significant achievement that demonstrates proficiency in deploying and managing Azure solutions, it does not equate directly to the AWS Solution Architect certifications without additional steps. Individuals aiming to transition to AWS architecture will need to take the necessary additional exams to validate their skills across the range of AWS services and design principles.

Related Keywords

Azure Certification AWS Solution Architect Cloud Vendor