Why Pursue AWS Certification?
The cloud computing market is rapidly growing, and Amazon Web Services (AWS) is a leading player in this space. As a result, the demand for AWS-certified professionals is increasing, making it an ideal time to get certified. AWS certification is a validation of your cloud expertise and can help you secure your cloud career.
Getting AWS certified demonstrates your proficiency in AWS services and best practices, making you a valuable asset to any organization. AWS certification can lead to higher salaries, increased job opportunities, and career advancement. According to the 2021 Global Knowledge IT Skills and Salary Report, AWS-certified professionals earn an average salary of $131,028, which is 25% higher than the average IT salary.
Moreover, AWS certification can help you stand out in a competitive job market. With AWS certification, you can showcase your skills and knowledge to potential employers, increasing your chances of getting hired. AWS certification can also help you build credibility with clients and colleagues, making you a trusted advisor in cloud computing.
In summary, AWS certification can help you secure your cloud career by validating your expertise, leading to higher salaries, increased job opportunities, and career advancement. By getting AWS certified, you can demonstrate your proficiency in AWS services and best practices, making you a valuable asset to any organization.
Understanding AWS Certifications
AWS offers a range of certifications that cater to different job roles and career goals. Here are the different types of AWS certifications available:
- Solutions Architect: This certification is designed for professionals who want to design and implement scalable, secure, and robust AWS cloud solutions. There are two levels of Solutions Architect certification: Associate and Professional.
- Developer: This certification is for professionals who want to develop, deploy, and manage applications on the AWS platform. The certification is available at two levels: Associate and Professional.
- SysOps Administrator: This certification is for professionals who want to deploy, manage, and operate AWS services. The certification is available at the Associate level.
- DevOps Engineer: This certification is for professionals who want to provision, operate, and manage AWS services in a DevOps environment. The certification is available at the Professional level.
- Alexa Skill Builder: This certification is for professionals who want to build and publish Alexa skills for Amazon’s voice-activated devices. The certification is available at the Specialty level.
- Machine Learning: This certification is for professionals who want to design and implement machine learning solutions on the AWS platform. The certification is available at the Specialty level.
- Security: This certification is for professionals who want to secure AWS workloads and ensure compliance with industry standards. The certification is available at the Specialty level.
- Database Specialty: This certification is for professionals who want to design, operate, and manage AWS database services. The certification is available at the Specialty level.
Each certification has a unique exam code that you can use to schedule and take the exam. For example, the Solutions Architect – Associate exam has the exam code SAA-C02.
By understanding the different types of AWS certifications available, you can choose the right certification that aligns with your job role, career goals, and current skill level. AWS certification can help you validate your skills, increase your earning potential, and advance your career in cloud computing.
How to Get AWS Certified: A Step-by-Step Guide
Getting AWS certified can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get AWS certified:
- Choose the right certification: The first step is to choose the right AWS certification that aligns with your job role, career goals, and current skill level. Consider factors such as the certification exam format, the exam content, and the exam cost.
- Prepare for the exam: Once you have chosen the right certification, the next step is to prepare for the exam. AWS provides a range of study resources, including online training, instructor-led training, and digital training. You can also use third-party study resources, such as practice exams, study guides, and online courses.
- Schedule and take the exam: After you have prepared for the exam, you can schedule and take the exam. AWS provides a range of testing options, including online proctored exams and testing centers. On exam day, make sure to arrive early, bring a valid ID, and follow the exam rules.
- Maintain your certification: After you have passed the exam, you need to maintain your certification by completing continuing education credits. AWS requires you to complete a certain number of credits every three years to maintain your certification.
By following this step-by-step guide, you can get AWS certified and validate your skills, increase your earning potential, and advance your career in cloud computing. Remember to choose the right certification, prepare for the exam, schedule and take the exam, and maintain your certification to maximize the benefits of AWS certification.
Selecting the Right AWS Certification
Choosing the right AWS certification is a crucial step in getting AWS certified. Here are some factors to consider when selecting an AWS certification:
- Job role: Consider your current job role and the skills required for your job. If you are a solutions architect, you may want to consider getting certified as an AWS Solutions Architect. If you are a developer, you may want to consider getting certified as an AWS Developer.
- Career goals: Consider your long-term career goals and how AWS certification can help you achieve those goals. If you want to advance to a senior role, you may want to consider getting certified at a higher level, such as the AWS Professional or Specialty level.
- Current skill level: Consider your current skill level and the level of difficulty of the certification exam. If you are new to AWS, you may want to start with a foundational certification, such as the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner. If you have more experience with AWS, you may want to consider a more advanced certification, such as the AWS Solutions Architect – Professional.
By considering these factors, you can choose the right AWS certification that aligns with your job role, career goals, and current skill level. AWS certification can help you validate your skills, increase your earning potential, and advance your career in cloud computing.
Preparing for the AWS Certification Exam
Preparing for the AWS certification exam requires a strategic approach. Here are some best practices for preparing for the exam:
- Use study resources: AWS provides a range of study resources, including online training, instructor-led training, and digital training. You can also use third-party study resources, such as practice exams, study guides, and online courses. Make sure to use a variety of study resources to get a comprehensive understanding of the exam content.
- Take practice exams: Practice exams can help you assess your readiness for the exam and identify areas where you need improvement. AWS provides practice exams for each certification exam. Make sure to take practice exams under exam-like conditions to get a realistic experience of the exam.
- Join study groups: Study groups can provide a supportive community of learners who can help you prepare for the exam. AWS provides a range of study groups, including online study groups, in-person study groups, and study groups on social media. Joining study groups can help you stay motivated, get feedback, and learn from others.
By following these best practices, you can prepare for the AWS certification exam and increase your chances of passing the exam. Remember to use a variety of study resources, take practice exams, and join study groups to get a comprehensive understanding of the exam content and maximize your chances of success.
Scheduling and Taking the AWS Certification Exam
Once you have prepared for the AWS certification exam, it’s time to schedule and take the exam. Here’s what you can expect on exam day and how to navigate the exam interface:
- Schedule the exam: You can schedule the AWS certification exam through the AWS Certification website. Choose a date, time, and testing center that is convenient for you. Make sure to schedule the exam with enough time to prepare and review the exam content.
- Arrive early: On exam day, arrive early to allow time for check-in and security procedures. Bring a valid, government-issued ID and any other required documentation. Make sure to review the exam rules and policies before starting the exam.
- Navigate the exam interface: The AWS certification exam is delivered through a web-based testing platform. Familiarize yourself with the exam interface before starting the exam. Make sure to read the instructions carefully and use the available tools, such as flags and notes, to manage your time and track your progress.
- Answer difficult questions: If you encounter difficult questions, use the available tools, such as mark for review and elimination, to manage your time and narrow down the answer choices. Don’t spend too much time on any one question. Move on to the next question and come back to the difficult question later if you have time.
By following these tips, you can navigate the exam interface and handle difficult questions with confidence. Remember to schedule the exam with enough time to prepare, arrive early, and use the available tools to manage your time and track your progress.
Maintaining Your AWS Certification
Maintaining your AWS certification is essential to staying up-to-date with the latest AWS technologies and best practices. Here are the requirements for maintaining an AWS certification and the benefits of maintaining an active certification:
- Continuing education credits: AWS requires you to complete a certain number of continuing education credits to maintain your certification. The number of credits required varies depending on the certification level and type. Make sure to check the AWS Certification website for the specific requirements for your certification.
- Recertification exam: AWS requires you to recertify every two years to ensure that your skills and knowledge are up-to-date. You can take the recertification exam online or at a testing center. Make sure to review the exam content and prepare for the exam to ensure success.
- Benefits of maintaining an active certification: Maintaining an active AWS certification demonstrates your commitment to staying current with AWS technologies and best practices. It also shows potential employers that you are dedicated to your profession and have the skills and knowledge to succeed in a cloud-based environment.
By completing the continuing education credits and recertification exam, you can maintain your AWS certification and stay up-to-date with the latest AWS technologies and best practices. Remember to check the AWS Certification website for the specific requirements for your certification and prepare for the recertification exam to ensure success.
Maximizing Your AWS Certification: Next Steps
Getting AWS certified is just the beginning of your cloud career journey. Here are the steps to take after getting AWS certified to maximize the benefits of the certification:
- Build a portfolio: Create a portfolio that showcases your AWS skills and experience. Include your AWS certification, relevant projects, and any relevant work experience. Make sure to keep your portfolio up-to-date and share it with potential employers and clients.
- Network: Attend AWS events, such as AWS Summits and AWS re:Invent, to network with other AWS professionals and learn about the latest AWS technologies and best practices. Join AWS user groups and online communities to connect with other AWS professionals and share knowledge and experience.
- Continuing education: AWS certification requires you to complete continuing education credits to maintain your certification. Use this opportunity to expand your knowledge and skills in AWS technologies and best practices. Take advantage of AWS training, such as online courses and instructor-led training, to stay up-to-date with the latest AWS technologies and best practices.
By building a portfolio, networking, and continuing your education, you can maximize the benefits of your AWS certification and advance your cloud career. Remember to stay up-to-date with the latest AWS technologies and best practices and share your knowledge and experience with others in the AWS community.