CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) vs AWS Certified Security - Specialty vs Microsoft Azure Security Engineer Associate (AZ-500)
Side-by-side comparison of 3 certifications to help you choose the right path for your career.
CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701)
Globally recognized certification validating baseline cybersecurity skills required for IT security roles.
AWS Certified Security - Specialty
Validates expertise in securing AWS workloads. Demonstrates understanding of specialized data classifications and protection mechanisms.
Detailed Comparison
| Attribute | COMPTIA-SECURITY-PLUS | AWS-SECURITY-SPECIALTY | AZURE-SECURITY-ENGINEER |
|---|---|---|---|
| Provider | CompTIA | Amazon Web Services | Microsoft |
| Practice Questions | 90 | 65 | 55 |
| Exam Duration | 90 minutes | 170 minutes | 100 minutes |
| Passing Score | 750/900 | 750/1000 | 700/1000 |
| Pass Percentage | 83% | 75% | 70% |
Choosing Between CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) and AWS Certified Security - Specialty and Microsoft Azure Security Engineer Associate (AZ-500)
Both certifications are valuable credentials in the IT industry, but they serve different purposes and target different career paths. Here's what you should consider when choosing between them.
Key Differences
- Question counts range from 55 to 90 practice questions.
- Exam durations vary between 90 and 170 minutes.
Which Should You Choose?
Your choice depends on your career goals, current employer's cloud platform, and the job market in your area. Here are some guidelines:
- If your company uses a specific cloud platform, prioritize that provider's certification.
- For job seekers, research which certifications are most requested in your target roles.
- Consider starting with entry-level certifications before pursuing advanced ones.
- Both certifications will strengthen your resume and validate your cloud skills.
Preparation Strategy
Regardless of which certification you choose, effective preparation includes a combination of hands-on practice, studying official documentation, and taking practice exams. BetaStudy provides thousands of practice questions for both certifications to help you prepare effectively.