CCNA vs AWS Networking Specialty
Compare Cisco CCNA and AWS Networking Specialty certifications. Traditional vs cloud networking.
Cisco CCNA
Cisco
AWS Networking - Specialty (ANS-C01)
Amazon Web Services
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Compare all aspects of these certifications side by side
| Feature | Cisco CCNA | AWS Networking - Specialty (ANS-C01) |
|---|---|---|
| Provider | Cisco | Amazon Web Services |
| Difficulty Level | Associate | Specialty |
| Exam Duration | 120 minutes | 170 minutes |
| Exam Cost | $330 USD | $300 USD |
| Exam Format | 100-120 questions + labs | 65 questions |
| Prerequisites | None | Advanced AWS networking experience |
| Validity Period | 3 years | 3 years |
| Ideal For | Network engineers working with Cisco | Cloud network architects on AWS |
| Salary Range | $65,000 - $95,000 | $140,000 - $190,000 |
What Each Certification Covers
Key topics and domains covered in each exam
Cisco CCNA Focus Areas
- IP Connectivity
- Network Access
- IP Services
- Security
- Automation
AWS Networking - Specialty (ANS-C01) Focus Areas
- VPC
- Direct Connect
- Transit Gateway
- Route 53
- CloudFront
Our Recommendation
CCNA covers traditional networking; AWS Networking is cloud-specific.
Choose Cisco CCNA
Choose CCNA for foundational networking and on-premises infrastructure.
Choose AWS Networking - Specialty (ANS-C01)
Choose AWS Networking for cloud network architecture roles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Cisco CCNA or AWS Networking - Specialty (ANS-C01)?
CCNA covers traditional networking; AWS Networking is cloud-specific.
What are the salary differences between Cisco CCNA?
Cisco CCNA typically offers salaries around $65,000 - $95,000, while AWS Networking - Specialty (ANS-C01) offers $140,000 - $190,000.
Which certification should I get first?
Choose CCNA for foundational networking and on-premises infrastructure. Choose AWS Networking for cloud network architecture roles.
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