CCSP vs Azure Security Engineer
Compare CCSP and Azure Security Engineer certifications for cloud security professionals.
CCSP
ISC2
Azure Security Engineer (AZ-500)
Microsoft
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Compare all aspects of these certifications side by side
| Feature | CCSP | Azure Security Engineer (AZ-500) |
|---|---|---|
| Provider | ISC2 | Microsoft |
| Difficulty Level | Professional | Associate |
| Exam Duration | 4 hours | 120 minutes |
| Exam Cost | $599 USD | $165 USD |
| Exam Format | 150 questions | 40-60 questions + labs |
| Prerequisites | 5 years IT + 3 years security | AZ-104 or equivalent |
| Validity Period | 3 years | 1 year (renewal) |
| Ideal For | Multi-cloud security professionals | Azure security specialists |
| Salary Range | $135,000 - $185,000 | $120,000 - $165,000 |
What Each Certification Covers
Key topics and domains covered in each exam
CCSP Focus Areas
- Cloud Architecture
- Security
- Compliance
- Legal
Azure Security Engineer (AZ-500) Focus Areas
- Azure AD
- Platform Protection
- Data Security
- Operations
Our Recommendation
CCSP is vendor-neutral and broader; AZ-500 is Azure-specific and practical.
Choose CCSP
Choose CCSP for multi-cloud environments and senior roles.
Choose Azure Security Engineer (AZ-500)
Choose AZ-500 for hands-on Azure security work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: CCSP or Azure Security Engineer (AZ-500)?
CCSP is vendor-neutral and broader; AZ-500 is Azure-specific and practical.
What are the salary differences between CCSP?
CCSP typically offers salaries around $135,000 - $185,000, while Azure Security Engineer (AZ-500) offers $120,000 - $165,000.
Which certification should I get first?
Choose CCSP for multi-cloud environments and senior roles. Choose AZ-500 for hands-on Azure security work.
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