02-19 How to Choose Between CompTIA, AWS, and ISC2 Certifications
- Steve Chau
- Jun 1
- 4 min read
Confused about which certification path to take? Here’s how to choose between CompTIA, AWS, and ISC2 based on your career goals, time, and budget.
When it comes to breaking into or advancing in IT, certifications can open doors. But with so many options, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Three of the biggest names—CompTIA, AWS, and ISC2—offer widely respected certifications, each with its own strengths.
So how do you choose?
This guide breaks down what each cert provider focuses on, who it's best for, how much it costs, and what kind of return on investment (ROI) you can expect.
What it is:CompTIA offers entry- and mid-level certifications that are vendor-neutral, making them perfect for those looking to build a solid IT foundation across a wide range of technologies.
Description: If you're new to tech or transitioning from another career, CompTIA certifications provide a reliable entry point. These credentials emphasize practical skills in areas like hardware, networking, and security without locking you into a specific platform or vendor. Employers trust CompTIA as a baseline for evaluating IT readiness, especially for support and junior cybersecurity roles.
Best for:
Beginners in IT
Career changers
Help desk, support, and junior cybersecurity roles
Popular Certs:
CompTIA A+ (IT fundamentals)
Network+ (Networking basics)
Security+ (Entry-level cybersecurity)
Time to Complete:Typically 2–3 months per cert with consistent study
Exam Cost:$246–392 per exam
ROI:High for entry-level roles, especially in general IT support and security
What it is:Amazon Web Services (AWS) certifications validate your skills in designing, deploying, and managing cloud infrastructure—one of the fastest-growing areas in tech.
Description:With businesses rapidly shifting to the cloud, AWS has become a must-know platform for IT professionals. Its certifications are built for real-world scenarios, covering everything from basic cloud literacy to complex architecture design. Whether you’re aiming to become a cloud engineer, DevOps specialist, or a solutions architect, AWS certs are an essential step toward those high-paying, cloud-centric roles.
Best for:
Cloud engineers
DevOps professionals
Developers and system admins transitioning to cloud roles
Popular Certs:
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner (Foundational)
AWS Solutions Architect – Associate
AWS DevOps Engineer – Professional
Time to Complete:3–6 months depending on experience
Exam Cost:$100–300
ROI:Very high; ideal for boosting salary and entering high-demand cloud careers
What it is:ISC2 (International Information System Security Certification Consortium) is globally recognized for advanced cybersecurity certifications, particularly in governance, risk management, and compliance (GRC).
Description:For those already working in cybersecurity—or aiming to—ISC2 offers some of the most respected credentials in the industry. Its certifications, like CISSP and CCSP, signal deep technical knowledge as well as strategic oversight. Many organizations, including government agencies and Fortune 500 companies, require or prefer these certifications for senior roles. They’re not just about passing an exam—they're about shaping leaders in cybersecurity.
Best for:
Mid-level to senior cybersecurity professionals
Managers and CISOs
Those seeking roles in compliance or risk analysis
Popular Certs:
Time to Complete:3–12 months depending on level
Exam Cost:$249–749
ROI:Extremely high; especially valuable for career advancement in cybersecurity leadership
Choosing the Right Path
When deciding between these certifications, ask yourself:
Where are you in your IT journey?Beginners often benefit most from CompTIA.
Are you cloud-focused?Go with AWS for roles in cloud engineering, DevOps, or system architecture.
Do you want to specialize in cybersecurity?Aim for ISC2—especially if you're targeting leadership roles.
What’s your budget and timeline?CompTIA and AWS have quicker, more affordable entry points. ISC2 offers long-term value but requires a larger upfront investment in time and study.
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all certification path—but there is a best fit for you. Whether you’re just starting or advancing into specialized roles, choosing the right cert can fast-track your career and raise your earning potential.
Not sure where to start? Chat with a Chauster Advisor today and let’s build your custom certification roadmap.
About Steve Chau
Steve Chau is a seasoned entrepreneur and marketing expert with over 35 years of experience across the mortgage, IT, and hospitality industries. He has worked with major firms like AIG, HSBC, and (ISC)² and currently leads TechEd360 Inc., a premier IT certification training provider, and TaoTastic Inc., an enterprise solutions firm. A Virginia Tech graduate, Steve’s career spans from founding a teahouse to excelling in banking and pivoting into cybersecurity education. Known for his ability to engage underserved markets, he shares insights on technology, culture, and professional growth through his writing and leadership at Chauster Inc.
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