CCNA vs AWS Networking Specialty
Compare Cisco CCNA (200-301) and AWS Certified Advanced Networking Specialty (ANS-C01). Traditional networking vs cloud networking — which networking certification is right for your career?
Cisco CCNA
Cisco
AWS Certified Advanced Networking - Specialty
Amazon Web Services
Detailed Comparison
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Compare all aspects of these certifications side by side
| Feature | Cisco CCNA | AWS Certified Advanced Networking - Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Provider | Cisco | Amazon Web Services |
| Difficulty Level | Associate | Specialty |
| Exam Duration | 120 minutes | 170 minutes |
| Exam Cost | $330 | $300 |
| Exam Format | Multiple choice, drag-and-drop, simulation | Multiple choice, multiple answer |
| Prerequisites | None — 1 year networking experience recommended | AWS Associate certification + 5 years networking experience recommended |
| Validity Period | 3 years | 3 years |
| Ideal For | Network engineers, administrators, and IT professionals working with on-premises or hybrid infrastructure | Senior network engineers designing complex AWS networking architectures |
| Salary Range | $85,000 | $155,000 |
Coverage Areas
What Each Certification Covers
Key topics and domains covered in each exam
Cisco CCNA Focus Areas
- Network Fundamentals
- IP Connectivity
- IP Services
- Security Fundamentals
- Automation & Programmability
- Switching & Routing
AWS Certified Advanced Networking - Specialty Focus Areas
- VPC Design
- Hybrid Connectivity
- Direct Connect
- Route 53
- CloudFront
- Network Security
- Transit Gateway
Expert Verdict
Our Recommendation
CCNA is the foundational networking certification for all environments. AWS Advanced Networking is a specialty cert for experienced cloud architects. CCNA is a prerequisite skill set — get it first, then specialize in AWS networking if cloud is your path.
Choose Cisco CCNA
Choose CCNA if you're building foundational networking skills or work with on-premises/hybrid infrastructure.
Choose AWS Certified Advanced Networking - Specialty
Choose AWS Advanced Networking if you're already an experienced network engineer specializing in AWS cloud architecture.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Cisco CCNA or AWS Certified Advanced Networking - Specialty?
CCNA is the foundational networking certification for all environments. AWS Advanced Networking is a specialty cert for experienced cloud architects. CCNA is a prerequisite skill set — get it first, then specialize in AWS networking if cloud is your path.
What are the salary differences between Cisco CCNA?
Cisco CCNA typically offers salaries around $85,000, while AWS Certified Advanced Networking - Specialty offers $155,000.
Which certification should I get first?
Choose CCNA if you're building foundational networking skills or work with on-premises/hybrid infrastructure. Choose AWS Advanced Networking if you're already an experienced network engineer specializing in AWS cloud architecture.
How long does it take to prepare for these certifications?
Preparation time varies based on experience. Most candidates spend 4-12 weeks studying, depending on their background and the certification difficulty level.
Ready to Get Certified?
Start your certification journey with our free practice exams and study guides
Related