Blog

Crawsec > AWS Security > Is the AWS Associate Certification Hard?

Is the AWS Associate Certification Hard?

September 13, 2023
Posted by: Vijay
Category: AWS Security

As cloud technologies continue to dominate the tech industry, certifications in cloud platforms like AWS (Amazon Web Services) are more desirable than ever. AWS offers different levels of certifications, and one of the most popular ones is the AWS Associate level. But is this certification difficult to attain? Let’s delve deep into the intricacies and understand what it takes to achieve this credential.

1. Understanding the AWS Associate Certification

Before we gauge the difficulty level, let’s understand what the AWS Associate Certification is. AWS offers three Associate-level certifications:

AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate
AWS Certified Developer – Associate
AWS Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate

Each of these targets different job roles but has a common underlying theme: they validate the knowledge and skills to deploy, manage, and operate applications and infrastructure on AWS.

2. Prerequisites and Exam Format

AWS recommends having some hands-on experience (ideally around one year) in AWS-based applications and a basic understanding of the core AWS services and architectural best practices.

The format typically consists of multiple-choice and multiple-answer questions, and the duration is 130 minutes. Passing scores vary and are set by statistical analysis.

3. Why Some Find It Challenging

Breadth of Topics: AWS has an extensive suite of services, and the Associate exams cover a broad range of these. It’s not just about understanding these services in isolation but knowing how they interact with each other.
Real-world Scenarios: The questions aren’t just theoretical. They are often based on real-world scenarios that require a deep understanding of AWS solutions and best practices.
Staying Updated: AWS continuously evolves, with new services and updates to existing ones. This dynamic nature can be challenging as what you learned a few months ago might have changed.
Depth of Knowledge Required: Unlike foundational exams that scratch the surface, the Associate level demands a deeper understanding of each service’s features, benefits, and best-use cases.
Multiple Possible Solutions: AWS often provides several ways to solve a problem. Exam questions might ask for the “most cost-effective” or “most performant” solution, requiring candidates to discern not just how to solve the issue, but how to solve it optimally.
Time Management: The exam is time-constrained. Balancing the time while ensuring accuracy, especially for lengthy scenario-based questions, can be daunting for many.
Evolving Exam Pattern: AWS, at times, updates the exam’s pattern or format to better assess the candidate’s skills, adding an element of unpredictability.
Limited Practical Exposure: Those who have limited exposure to AWS’s vast ecosystem in a real-world setting may struggle to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios presented in the exam.
Overlapping Concepts: Some AWS services have functionalities that overlap. Differentiating them and knowing when to apply one over another can be a test of the candidate’s clarity and experience.
Cost Implications: Mistakes in AWS can lead to cost overruns. Hence, the exam tests not just the technical knowledge but also the financial implications of decisions, which some might find challenging.
Scenario-Based Complexity: The exam doesn’t merely test individual service knowledge. It often presents complex architectures and asks candidates to make modifications or suggest improvements, gauging their holistic understanding of AWS solutions.
By understanding these challenges in depth, candidates can better prepare themselves and develop a focused strategy to conquer the AWS Associate Certification exams.

4. Tips for Tackling the ‘Difficulty’

Hands-On Practice: Spend time on the AWS Management Console. Set up resources, break them, fix them. The hands-on experience is invaluable.
Use AWS Training and Materials: AWS offers a range of training resources, including courses, whitepapers, and documentation.
Join Study Groups: Being part of a community can provide motivation, share resources, and offer clarifications on complex topics.
Practice Exams: Before you take the actual exam, take a few practice tests. They help you understand the format and gauge your preparedness.
Stay Updated: Keep an eye on AWS announcements. Join forums, blogs, or any AWS update channels to stay in the loop.

5. In Conclusion

So, is the AWS Associate Certification hard? The answer lies in how prepared and updated you are. With the right resources, dedication, and practical experience, it’s entirely achievable. Remember, the journey of attaining the certification will also equip you with the knowledge and skills that are highly in demand, making every bit of the challenge worth it. Whether you’re a developer, a solutions architect, or an administrator, there’s an AWS Associate certification that can enhance your profile and pave the way for better career opportunities.

Table of Contents