
Cloud Computing has become a fundamental aspect of modern business operations leading to a growing need for certified cloud specialists who can manage and optimize cloud environments. As a result, many cloud certifications have been making rounds in the IT space.
Among the certifications aimed at validating cloud expertise, the CompTIA Cloud+ certification stands out. Thus, the pressing question looms: Is the Cloud+ certification the golden ticket to unlocking the vast potential of cloud technology? Is it worth the hype?
If you’re also wondering the answer to these questions, you’ve landed in the right corner of the internet. In this article, we will delve into a comprehensive analysis to help you determine whether pursuing this certification is worth your time and effort. Let’s get started.
What Is The CompTIA Cloud+ Certification?
In order to unveil the true worth of the Cloud+ certification, it is first essential to understand what this certification actually is.
So, what is it?
Offered by The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA), the CompTIA Cloud+ certification is designed to validate the skills and knowledge required to effectively manage cloud technologies. It covers a wide range of cloud-related topics, such as cloud infrastructure, security, deployment, management, and troubleshooting. The certification aims to equip professionals with the expertise to navigate the complexities of cloud environments and optimize cloud services.
Overview of the CompTIA Cloud+ Exam
Exam Format | Multiple choice, Performance Based Questions (PBQs) |
No. Of Questions | 90 Questions |
Exam Duration | 90 Minutes |
Cost | $358 |
Recommended Experience | i) CompTIA Network+ and Server+ (II)2-3 years of experience in systems administration or networking. |
CompTIA Cloud+ Certification: Acquired Skills
This certification supports and adds to your skill set and upon completing this certification, you will leave with many vital skills to help you thrive in the Cloud landscape.
Cloud Architecture And Design
The certification teaches you how to analyze the different cloud models available in order to design the best solutions that are in line with business requirements and needs.
Cloud Security
Cloud security is becoming an increasingly important aspect and skill when operating the cloud. With the Cloud+ certifications, professionals learn to manage and maintain servers, including OS configurations, access controls, and virtualization.
Cloud Deployment
Candidates also learn to analyze system requirements in order to successfully execute workload migrations to the cloud.
Operations And Support
Since the Cloud+ certification is vendor-neutral, it assists you in maintaining and optimizing different cloud environments, including proper automation and orchestration procedures, backup and restore operations, as well as establishing disaster recovery tasks.
Troubleshooting
The CompTIA Cloud+ certification also teaches you important skills related to troubleshooting such as troubleshooting capacity, automation, and connectivity along with security issues in relation to cloud implementations.
Read more: CompTIA IT certifications Roadmap: A Complete guide
Why The CompTIA Cloud+ Certification Is Worth It
Now that we’ve covered the basics of the certification, let’s get down to the real business that brought you here in the first place. If you’re unsure about whether to pursue the CompTIA Cloud+ certification, here are a few major reasons why this certification may be worth your while.
1. Career Advancement Opportunities
In today’s increasingly competitive job market, certifications can play a pivotal role in demonstrating one’s expertise. The CompTIA Cloud+ certification is widely recognized by employers, making certified professionals highly desirable candidates for cloud-related roles.
So, whether you’re aiming to become a cloud engineer, cloud architect, or cloud administrator, this certification serves as a powerful testament to your skills and commitment to the field, leading to enhanced employability and accelerated career growth.
In addition, certifications often prove to employers that applicants are serious about their continuous professional development and will add value to their firm. In fact, more than 96% of IT managers say that certified staff add value to their organizations.This, as a result, can highlight you when considerations are made for promotional positions, allowing you to climb the hierarchical ladder faster.
2. Versatility Across Cloud Platforms
One of the features that make the Cloud+ certification stand out is its vendor-neutral approach. This means that the professionals holding this certification are adept at working with a variety of cloud platforms including Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud, and more.
In addition, since the certification covers a broad spectrum of cloud concepts, from cloud architecture and deployment to security and troubleshooting, you will be in a strong position to take on diverse cloud-related challenges. This enhances your versatility and showcases your ability to be able to adapt to different environments and technologies, making you a vital asset to any organization’s cloud strategy.
3. Industry Recognition
The Cloud+ Certification is a globally recognized certification and hence, considered quite valuable in the IT industry. Obtaining this certification demonstrates an individual’s proficiency in cloud technologies and as a result, can make you an overall valuable asset to employers that are seeking cloud-savvy professionals to streamline their business operations.
4. Address Security Challenges with Confidence
Security remains a top concern in the cloud landscape. The CompTIA Cloud+ certification places a strong emphasis on cloud security, ensuring that certified professionals are well-versed in implementing robust security measures. From encryption and access controls to compliance and data protection, you’ll be equipped to address security challenges with confidence, bolstering your organization’s trust in your abilities.
5. Stay Ahead In The Dynamic Cloud Space
Cloud computing is a constantly evolving domain, with regular updates, new technologies, and best practices being introduced frequently. This certification equips individuals with the latest industry knowledge and trends, ensuring that they remain at the forefront of this dynamic space.
From managing multi-cloud environments to securing data in the cloud, Cloud+ certified professionals are well-prepared to navigate the ever-changing domain of cloud technology.
6. Foundation for Advanced Certifications
The CompTIA Cloud+ certification serves as a solid foundation for more advanced cloud certifications offered by cloud providers like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud. As a result, it can streamline your path to specialized certifications.
7. Boosted Credibility
The certification process involves rigorous training and examination, ensuring that you carry the related knowledge and skills to effectively tackle complex cloud issues.
Therefore, with the certification badge on your resume, you are more likely to be perceived as a credible professional who can contribute significantly to an organization’s cloud initiatives.
Read more: How Hard is CompTIA Network Certifications
5 Job Roles You Can Land With A CompTIA Cloud+ Certification
As we discussed earlier, the CompTIA Cloud+ Certification can help open the door to many lucrative job opportunities. So, let’s take a closer look at the exciting roles that you can pursue with this Certification in hand.
1.Cloud Engineer
As a Cloud Engineer, you’ll be responsible for designing, deploying, and maintaining cloud infrastructure. Your expertise in creating scalable and efficient cloud solutions will make you a crucial asset to organizations aiming to harness the full potential of cloud computing. You’ll collaborate with teams to ensure seamless integration and work on optimizing performance, security, and cost efficiency.
2. Cloud Security Specialist
With increasing cyber threats in the cloud space, security has become a top priority. This Certification helps you understand how to manage and maintain servers. This may help you demonstrate that you understand how the OS operates and are, in fact, capable of implementing robust security measures to secure related data and resources.
With this certification, you will also be provided with the knowledge to design and implement encryption, access controls, as well as compliance strategies. Hence, obtaining the CompTIA Cloud+ certification may help you demonstrate that you can maintain the integrity of cloud systems and provide sufficient protection against potential cyber threats.
Developing and implementing a safe and secure cloud system is worth the price of good talent. In fact, the median annual wage for cloud engineers is $116,780, according to the BLS.
3. Cloud Specialist
Cloud specialists are currently enjoying high demand in the market right now. As organizations continue to move to the cloud, the demand for cloud specialists has increased exponentially. In fact, CompTIA has projected an increase of 7% for cloud specialists with 46,600 net new jobs expected between 2019 and 2029.
They are responsible for a number of duties such as
- Analyzing business needs to select appropriate cloud technology for them
- Identifying opportunities to deploy, optimize and protect critical applications and data storage
- Managing company data securely across multi-cloud environments
- Building best practices around procurement and integration
- Performing cloud technology patching when appropriate
Obtaining the CompTIA Cloud+ shows employers that you are able to complete these tasks effectively.
Read more: How much does CompTIA A+ certification cost?
4. Senior Network Administrator
Network Administrators with a CompTIA Cloud+ certification are poised to excel in a cloud-centric environment. Your ability to configure and manage network connections within cloud architectures will be invaluable. You’ll ensure that network resources are optimized for performance and security while facilitating seamless communication between cloud components.
5. Cloud Systems Administrator
Cloud Systems Administrators play an essential role in managing and maintaining cloud environments. With the support of the CompTIA Cloud+ certification, you’ll be equipped to oversee everyday operations, monitor resource utilization, manage user access, and ensure data security. In addition, your skills in troubleshooting and problem-solving will be essential in ensuring the smooth functioning of cloud services.
With the right skill set and background, you may be able to make as much as $147,670 annually in the United States according to the BLS and CompTIA.
6. Cloud Specialist In The DoD
This certification is DoD-approved so hey, if you’re ever looking to land a government job in the Department of Defense while still sticking to your IT roots, the CompTIA Cloud+ Certification may be ideal for you.
Read more: CompTIA Certification Salary
CompTIA Cloud+ Certification: Salary Trends
Another perk of holding a professional certification is improved earning potential. The CompTIA certification is no different. Here are the salary trends for professionals holding the CompTIA Cloud+ certification.
Salary Trends Based On Location
Salaries for the CompTIA Cloud+ certification can vary depending on location. The table below demonstrates how salaries may vary from city to city in the US. The data has been taken from ZipRecruiter, showing annual salaries in various cities in the US.
City/ Location | Annual Salary |
Berkeley, CA | $162,782 |
Renton, WA | $161,062 |
Santa Monica, CA | $159,972 |
Merced, CA | $159,603 |
Daly City, CA | $157,388 |
San Mateo, CA | $156,528 |
Salary Trends By Job Roles
Salary packages may also vary depending on your job roles and responsibilities.Here are annual average salaries across diverse job roles that you may be able to get with the Cloud+ certification:
Job Title | Annual Salary |
Principal Cloud Architect | $168,844 |
Cloud Director | $168,644 |
Enterprise Cloud Architect | $157,518 |
Senior Network Engineer | $132,520 |
Systems Engineer | $90,920 |
According to similar data from ZipRecruiter, the average annual CompTIA Cloud salary lies close to $131,257.
Read more: Top Highest Paying Cloud Certifications
The Bottom Line
The CompTIA Cloud+ certification can open the gateway to a world of opportunities and expertise in the rapidly expanding cloud industry. It offers a well-rounded education in cloud technologies, industry recognition, and the potential for career advancement. While pursuing the certification demands dedication and effort, the benefits it brings to your skill set and career prospects make it a worthwhile investment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Is CompTIA Cloud+ more costly than other cloud certifications?
In comparison to other cloud certifications, the Cloud+ certification is relatively costly with a cost of $358.
Alternates for the Cloud+ certification are the Microsoft Azure Fundamentals certification, AWS Solutions Architect certification, and the Google Associate Cloud Engineer certification. However, all of these cost less than the Cloud+ certification exam.
The Microsoft Azure Fundamentals certification is offered at $99. The AWS Solutions Architect Exam can be attempted at a cost of $150 while the Google Associate Cloud Engineer certification costs about $125.
What is the difference between CompTIA Cloud+ and Cloud Essentials+?
The Cloud Essentials by CompTIA is targeted towards entry-level IT professionals, covering the basics of cloud computing and its role within a business focusing on the non-technical side. It covers skills like cloud computing basics, cloud service models, virtualization, and business continuity in the cloud.
On the other hand, the Cloud+ is more appropriate for already experienced IT professionals looking for a deeper, more technical knowledge of cloud computing. As a result, the main skills covered in this certification exam are cloud architecture, security, deployment, automation, and troubleshooting.
Is the CompTIA Cloud+ exam difficult?
The CompTIA Cloud+ certification is an intermediate-level certification and as a result, covers relatively more technical topics. Therefore, it is by no means an easy exam to conquer.
However, with a thorough understanding of the main concepts tested and sufficient practice, you might find it much easier to attempt this exam. It is also important to remember that the Cloud+ exam contains performance-based questions which is why it is essential to have a very good understanding of the concepts and you can perfect your multiple-choice questions with practice.
Our Cloud+ braindumps at Dumpsgate contain real exam questions with verified answers if you need help practicing and need to gauge your weak areas for an ultimately better performance in the actual exam.
Does the CompTIA Cloud+ certification expire?
Yes, your Cloud+ certification expires three years after the date of your exam. However, with the CE program, you can extend your certification through activities and training that relate to the content of your certification.