Are you thinking about starting a career in IT or cloud computing, but not sure where to begin? Two of the most popular certification paths are AWS Certification and CompTIA Certification. But how do you choose between them? In this blog, we’ll break it all down in a fun, simple, and easy-to-understand way. We’ll help you decide which certification suits your goals, your background, and your future.
Whether you’re just getting started in tech or looking to level up your skills, this post is for you. Let’s dive in and settle the debate: AWS or CompTIA—which one is the best fit for you?
What is AWS Certification?
AWS Certification is offered by Amazon Web Services, the world’s most popular cloud platform. It’s all about learning how to build, manage, and secure applications on the cloud.
There are several types of AWS certifications, like:
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AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner (great for beginners)
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AWS Solutions Architect
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AWS Developer
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AWS SysOps Administrator
These certifications are designed to teach you how to work with cloud infrastructure, deploy services, and understand cloud security.
If you want a job as a Cloud Engineer, DevOps Engineer, or Cloud Solutions Architect, AWS certification can help you get there faster.
What is CompTIA Certification?
CompTIA stands for the Computing Technology Industry Association. It offers a range of certifications that cover the basics of IT, networking, and cybersecurity.
Popular CompTIA certifications include:
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CompTIA A+ (for IT support and entry-level tech roles)
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CompTIA Network+ (networking fundamentals)
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CompTIA Security+ (cybersecurity basics)
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CompTIA Cloud+ (for cloud infrastructure knowledge)
CompTIA certifications are vendor-neutral, which means they don’t tie you to one specific company like Amazon or Microsoft. They’re a great starting point if you want to explore different parts of IT.
Who Should Choose AWS Certification?
AWS certification is ideal for people who want to:
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Work in cloud computing
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Get into roles like Cloud Architect or DevOps Engineer
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Learn how to use Amazon Web Services
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Stay updated with the latest cloud technologies
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Work with companies using AWS (which is a lot!)
It’s also great for people who already have some IT experience and want to specialize in cloud systems.
Who Should Choose CompTIA Certification?
CompTIA is a smart choice for:
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Beginners who are brand new to IT
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People who want to understand IT fundamentals
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Those interested in cybersecurity, tech support, or networking
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Job seekers who want to build a strong tech foundation
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Students looking to start a career in technology
It’s also good if you want certifications that are widely accepted across multiple IT roles and companies.
AWS vs. CompTIA: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | AWS Certification | CompTIA Certification |
|---|---|---|
| Focus Area | Cloud computing | General IT, networking, security |
| Best For | Intermediate to advanced tech professionals | Beginners and early-career tech learners |
| Vendor | Amazon | Vendor-neutral |
| Popular Exams | Cloud Practitioner, Solutions Architect | A+, Network+, Security+ |
| Career Paths | Cloud Engineer, DevOps, Architect | IT Support, Network Admin, Security Analyst |
| Cost | $100–$300 per exam | $130–$370 per exam |
| Demand | High demand for cloud roles | High demand for entry-level and security roles |
Which One is Easier?
If you’re totally new to tech, CompTIA A+ is easier because it teaches basic computer knowledge, troubleshooting, and IT concepts.
AWS exams can be tough if you don’t already know some tech terms or concepts. So, if you’re a beginner, it’s often smarter to start with CompTIA, then move on to AWS when you’re ready.
Salary Expectations: Which Pays More?
On average, people with AWS Certification earn more. That’s because cloud-related jobs often require advanced skills and come with higher salaries. For example:
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AWS Certified Solutions Architect: $120,000+ per year
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AWS DevOps Engineer: $130,000+ per year
With CompTIA, the salaries are great too, especially for entry-level roles:
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CompTIA A+ Technician: $45,000–$60,000
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CompTIA Security+: $70,000–$90,000
The more certifications you earn, the higher you can climb in your career and salary.
Can You Do Both?
Yes, absolutely! Many people start with CompTIA A+ or Security+, then move to AWS Certification once they’ve built confidence.
Here’s a path you could follow:
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Start with CompTIA A+ to learn IT basics.
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Move to CompTIA Network+ or Security+ to learn more.
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When ready, take AWS Cloud Practitioner, then go for advanced AWS roles.
Doing both gives you a strong mix of general IT skills and cloud expertise — a powerful combo for job hunting.
Real-Life Example: Meet Alex and Mia
Let’s say you have two friends:
Alex is 18, fresh out of high school, loves gaming and computers but doesn’t have any work experience yet. He decides to start with CompTIA A+, learns basic troubleshooting, and lands an entry-level IT support job. After one year, he goes for Security+, and now works in a cybersecurity role.
Mia is 28, has worked as a helpdesk technician for 4 years. She’s bored and wants to earn more money. She studies for the AWS Solutions Architect certification, passes the exam, and lands a job as a junior cloud engineer. Her salary goes up by 40%!
Both paths work — it just depends on where you’re starting and where you want to go.
Final Thoughts: Which One is Right for YOU?
Ask yourself these 3 questions:
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Are you new to tech?
→ Start with CompTIA. -
Do you want to work in cloud computing and earn more?
→ Go with AWS Certification. -
Do you want a long-term tech career with flexible skills?
→ Do both, starting with CompTIA and moving to AWS.
No matter what you choose, you’re investing in your future. Certifications show employers that you’re serious, skilled, and ready to work.
How to Start Today
Looking to jumpstart your IT or cloud career the right way? Access Computer Training offers hands-on, instructor-led courses that help you pass your certifications and get hired fast.
🎓 Explore our AWS Certification Courses
Learn everything you need to know about cloud computing and Amazon Web Services:
👉 AWS Certification Training at Access Computer Training
💻 Check out our CompTIA Certification Programs
Perfect for beginners or those wanting to build strong IT foundations:
👉 CompTIA Certification Courses in Tampa Bay
Our expert-led training helps you build real-world skills, stay motivated, and pass your certification exams with confidence. Whether you’re starting with CompTIA A+ or aiming for AWS Cloud Practitioner, we’ve got you covered with structured, in-person and online options.
Don’t wait. Start your journey with us today and take the first step toward a high-paying, future-proof tech career.
Summary: AWS vs. CompTIA
Still unsure? Here’s a quick recap:
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CompTIA = best for beginners, general IT, cybersecurity, networking.
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AWS = best for cloud careers, higher salaries, Amazon-specific skills.
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Doing both = best of both worlds.
Whichever path you choose, don’t wait. Start now, keep learning, and unlock your future in tech.
