What are the Top Paying Certifications in IT for 2024?

Top Paying Certifications

The consensus among IT leaders is resounding: certified personnel significantly enhance organizational value, with estimates exceeding $30,000 annually. When factoring in the costs associated with exam preparation and sitting, the return on investment becomes abundantly clear, offering substantial benefits for the organization's bottom line.

Certifications boost productivity and contribute to shorter resolution times, expedited project completion, smoother deployments, and improved employee retention rates. These findings stem from Chauster's longstanding IT Skills and Salary survey, which has diligently collected data on certifications' value to both individuals and organizations for nearly two decades.

The Results: Skip to →

1. Google Cloud – Professional Cloud Architect

2. Google Cloud – Professional Data Engineer

3. PMI - Project Management Professional

4. AWS - Certified Solutions Architect Professional

5. ISACA - Certified Information Security Manager, CISM

6. AWS - Certified Security Specialty

7. Google Cloud – Professional Cloud Database Engineer

8. Google Cloud - Associate Cloud Engineer

9. AWS - Certified Solutions Architect Associate

10. ISC2 - CERTIFIED INFORMATION SYSTEMS SECURITY PROFESSIONAL, CISSP

11. ISACA - Certified Information Systems Auditor, CISA

12. AWS - Certified Advanced Networking Specialty

13. AWS - Certified DevOps Engineer Professional

14. BTA - Certified Blockchain Security Professional, CBSP

15. Cisco Certified Network Associate, CCNA

16. AWS - Certified Developer Associate

17. AWS - Certified Database Specialty

18. CompTIA - Security+

19. CompTIA - CySA+

20. Microsoft - Certified Azure Administrator Associate

This year, we meticulously examined reported salaries worldwide to identify the highest-paying IT certifications. Drawing insights from thousands of participants, including those surveyed through our esteemed partners such as Google Cloud, Microsoft, ISACA, and CompTIA, our findings offer a compelling glimpse into the significance of skills and certifications within the industry.

Our survey reveals consistent trends, with certifications in cybersecurity and cloud computing commanding top salaries fueled by sustained demand for these specialized skills. Notably, cybersecurity's increasing importance in mitigating evolving threats drives up salaries for professionals equipped to tackle these challenges effectively.

However, it's essential to recognize that salaries are influenced by multifaceted factors, including job role, skill application, continuous development, tenure, and dedication. Moreover, our list provides valuable insights into the average certification holder's profile, encompassing factors such as certification count, popular cross-certifications, management roles, and average age.

1: GOOGLE CLOUD – PROFESSIONAL CLOUD ARCHITECT

AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY: $200,960

Google Cloud's Professional Cloud Architect certification has consistently held a prominent position in the industry, often vying for the top spot alongside credentials like the Professional Data Engineer certification and comparable offerings from AWS. Previously ranked third with an average annual salary of $161,371, this year it claims the top spot as the highest-paying certification in the field.

The evolution of cloud technology, marked by its increased reliance and maturity, has prompted organizations across the board to turn to providers like Google for their data needs. Consequently, the role of cloud architects has become indispensable for businesses of all sizes.

This certification attests to the holder's adeptness in designing, managing, and implementing secure, scalable, and robust cloud solutions utilizing Google Cloud technologies. It signifies a comprehensive understanding of Google Cloud's infrastructure and services, empowering professionals to devise and optimize cloud architectures that are not only efficient and cost-effective but also resilient to challenges.

Google recommends candidates to possess a minimum of three years of experience, including one year of designing and managing solutions in Google Cloud, before attempting the exam. The examination incurs a fee of $200 USD, with a duration of two hours. Upon passing, the certification remains valid for two years before recertification is required. Exams can be taken online or at designated testing centers.

Furthermore, Google Cloud's Professional Data Engineer certification continues to command high salaries, with few exceptions. Roles such as data engineers, scientists, and specialists are witnessing accelerated demand, surpassing the average growth rate in the U.S., as data assumes greater importance in decision-making processes.

This certification validates an individual's ability to construct and oversee efficient data processing systems using Google Cloud. It confirms their proficiency in establishing secure, scalable, and dependable data solutions.

Employing professionals holding this certification can yield significant benefits for organizations, as they bring specialized expertise in handling and analyzing extensive datasets. Their proficiency in developing data processing systems can drive operational efficiency, facilitate data-driven decision-making, and foster innovation within the organization.

To obtain this certification, candidates must successfully pass the exam, which will undergo some revisions effective November 13, according to Google. The updated exam will place greater emphasis on changes to Google Cloud's data storage, sharing, and governance, while reducing focus on operationalizing machine learning models. The exam fee remains at $200 USD, with a duration of two hours for 50 to 60 questions.

Google recommends a minimum of three years of professional experience, including at least one year of working with its platform, before attempting the exam. Upon successful completion, the certification remains valid for two years before renewal is necessary.

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2: GOOGLE CLOUD – PROFESSIONAL DATA ENGINEER

AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY: $193,621

Google Cloud's Professional Data Engineer certification has consistently commanded high salaries among IT professionals, with few exceptions in today's landscape. Roles such as data engineers, scientists, and specialists are experiencing rapid growth in demand, outpacing the average rate in the U.S., as data and its applications become increasingly pivotal in decision-making processes.

This certification serves as validation of an individual's proficiency in constructing and managing effective data processing systems using Google Cloud. It attests to their ability to develop secure, scalable, and dependable data solutions.

Organizations stand to gain significantly by engaging individuals who hold this certification, as they bring specialized expertise in handling and analyzing extensive datasets. Their competencies in designing data processing systems can facilitate operational efficiency improvements, enable data-driven decision-making, and foster innovation within the organization.

To obtain this certification, candidates must pass the exam, which will undergo revisions effective November 13, as announced by Google. The updated exam will place greater emphasis on changes to Google Cloud's data storage, sharing, and governance, while reducing focus on operationalizing machine learning models. The examination incurs a fee of $200 USD and consists of 50 to 60 questions to be completed within a two-hour timeframe.

Google recommends a minimum of three years of professional experience, including at least one year of practical experience with its platform, before attempting the exam. Upon successful completion, the certification remains valid for two years before renewal is required.

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3: PMI - PROJECT MANAGEMENT PROFESSIONAL

AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY: $176,116

The Project Management Institute (PMI) Project Management Professional (PMP) certification maintains its esteemed status as one of the most highly regarded certifications in the field, consistently appearing on this list year after year. It offers employers and clients a level of confidence in a project manager's expertise and experience.

In 2022, professionals holding this certification earned an average salary of $148,290, securing the seventh position on the list. The notable increase in average earnings likely reflects the escalating demand for project managers and their skill sets, driven by a persistent skills gap in this domain. According to the findings of this year's IT Skills and Salary survey, more than half of IT decision-makers rate their team's proficiency in project management as medium to low, with only 14% reporting high proficiency. PMI forecasts a requirement for 25 million project management professionals by 2030 to bridge this talent gap.

To attain the PMP certification, candidates must meet the Institute's stringent requirements. Eligibility criteria include either a four-year degree, three years of project leadership experience, and completion of 35 hours of project management education or possession of a CAPM certification. Alternatively, candidates with a high school diploma can qualify with five years of project management experience, along with the requisite education/training hours or holding a CAPM certification. Subsequently, candidates must pass the rigorous exam, comprising 180 questions.

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4: AWS - CERTIFIED SOLUTIONS ARCHITECT PROFESSIONAL

AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY: $174,137

In the previous year, the AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Professional certification claimed the top spot on this list, boasting an average annual salary of $168,080. AWS certifications have consistently commanded high salaries in the IT industry, primarily due to the assurance they provide to organizations seeking highly skilled professionals. Moreover, AWS ranks among the top vendors in which IT leaders intend to invest, underscoring the increasing importance of having proficient, dependable professionals to architect cloud infrastructures.

This certification attests to an individual's advanced technical prowess and proficiency in conceptualizing and implementing scalable, resilient, and fault-tolerant systems on the AWS platform. Tailored for seasoned solutions architects, it signifies a comprehensive comprehension of AWS architecture and design principles. Certified individuals bring specialized expertise in crafting intricate AWS architectures, optimizing infrastructure performance, fortifying security measures, and minimizing operational costs.

AWS recommends candidates to possess at least two years of hands-on experience, along with familiarity in scripting languages, Windows, Linux, and various AWS services. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate proficiency in translating business requirements into viable technical solutions.

Obtaining this certification mandates passing the current exam, which comes at a cost of $300 USD. The exam duration is 180 minutes, featuring 75 questions, and can be taken either online or at a Pearson VUE testing center.

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5: ISACA - CERTIFIED INFORMATION SECURITY MANAGER, CISM

AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY: $167,396

ISACA's Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification maintains its esteemed position as a top-tier, high-paying credential within the cybersecurity domain. In the previous year, it secured the second-highest spot in terms of average annual salary, boasting an impressive $162,347.

The enduring prominence of CISM underscores its significance. Cybersecurity remains a paramount concern for organizations grappling with the imperative to safeguard sensitive data against persistent threats. This certification serves as a beacon, signifying to organizations and industry peers alike that a professional possesses the adeptness to lead security initiatives and teams effectively.

CISM attests to the proficiency in managing, designing, and evaluating an enterprise's information security framework. It validates expertise across key domains, including information security governance, risk management, program development, and incident management.

To attain this certification, professionals must accrue a minimum of five years of professional experience in the relevant domains before becoming eligible to sit for the exam. The examination fee amounts to $575 USD for ISACA members and $760 USD for non-members.

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6: AWS - CERTIFIED SECURITY SPECIALTY

AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY: $166,449

Maintaining its position on the list this year is the AWS Certified Security – Specialty certification. In the previous year, it held the sixth spot and commanded an average annual salary of $149,741.

The AWS Certified Security – Specialty certification attests to an individual's capacity to fortify data protection within the AWS cloud environment and adeptly address intricate security dilemmas. This certification underscores the holder's prowess in orchestrating security controls, comprehending AWS security services, and orchestrating incident response protocols. It stands as a hallmark of a candidate's expertise in securing AWS infrastructures, emphasizing their specialization in cloud security.

AWS recommends aspiring candidates for this certification to amass at least five years of experience in an IT security role, including a minimum of two years of hands-on practice in securing AWS workloads. Moreover, candidates should possess a comprehensive understanding of AWS security services, proficiency in logging and monitoring strategies, familiarity with cloud security threat models, and adeptness in security operations and risk management, among other requisites.

To obtain this certification, professionals must successfully pass the examination, which incurs a fee of $300 USD. The exam comprises 65 questions and candidates are allotted 170 minutes to complete it.

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7: GOOGLE CLOUD - PROFESSIONAL CLOUD DATABASE ENGINEER

AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY: $163,193

The Google Cloud Professional Cloud Database Engineer certification targets individuals tasked with the design, administration, and resolution of database-related issues, ensuring the delivery of scalable and cost-efficient solutions aligned with both business and technical requisites.

Candidates aspiring to earn this certification are expected to demonstrate proficiency in the following domains:

1. Designing highly scalable and available databases.

2. Managing complex database solutions.

3. Migrating data solutions seamlessly.

4. Deploying solutions within the Google Cloud environment.

These four key areas constitute the core subjects of the examination. Within each domain, candidates will be evaluated on their aptitude to analyze and assess solutions, administer the platform effectively, and execute other pertinent tasks.

Prior to undertaking the exam, Google recommends that professionals possess a minimum of five years of experience in database management, with at least two years dedicated to hands-on involvement with Google Cloud solutions. The examination incurs a fee of $200 USD and spans a duration of two hours, comprising between 50 to 60 questions.

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8: GOOGLE CLOUD - ASSOCIATE CLOUD ENGINEER

AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY: $161,075

The Google Cloud Associate Cloud Engineer certification targets individuals entrusted with the deployment and management of enterprise solutions. These professionals excel in deploying applications, optimizing infrastructure, and ensuring the reliability and security of cloud-based systems.

To attain this certification, candidates undergo assessment of their proficiency in setting up, configuring, deploying, and maintaining the operational efficiency of cloud solutions. Achievement of this certification serves as a stepping stone to Google's professional-level certifications, many of which are prominently featured elsewhere on this list.

While there are no specific prerequisites for taking the exam, Google recommends that candidates possess a minimum of six months of practical experience working with the platform. The examination spans a duration of two hours, comprising up to 60 questions, and incurs a fee of $125 USD. Notably, unlike certifications with a two-year validity period, this certification remains valid for three years upon achievement.

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9: AWS - CERTIFIED SOLUTIONS ARCHITECT ASSOCIATE

AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY: $160,052

Continuing its tradition as a sought-after and lucrative certification, the AWS Certified Solutions Architect — Associate remains a cornerstone in the AWS certification lineup, serving as a stepping stone to the higher-ranked professional-level credential. Last year, it boasted an average annual salary of $155,020.

This certification holds significant value by validating an individual's proficiency in designing and deploying scalable, resilient, and secure systems on the AWS platform. It encompasses a broad spectrum of AWS services, spanning compute, networking, storage, and database, while also addressing security controls and compliance requirements.

Candidates aspiring for this certification should be well-versed in the AWS Well-Architected Framework, and although basic programming knowledge is beneficial, extensive coding experience is not mandatory as per AWS guidelines. To attain certification, candidates must successfully pass the exam, with AWS recommending at least a year of hands-on experience in designing systems on the AWS platform prior to examination.

The exam incurs a fee of $150 USD, with candidates allotted 130 minutes to complete the 65-question assessment.

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10: ISC2 - CERTIFIED INFORMATION SYSTEMS SECURITY PROFESSIONAL, CISSP

AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY: $156,699

The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification offered by ISC2 continues to be a sought-after and esteemed credential within the cybersecurity realm, consistently commanding high salaries as reflected in this dataset over the years. From 2022 up to the present, the reported annual earnings have remained steady. Last year, professionals disclosed an average annual salary of $158,191.

Obtaining the CISSP certification is often likened to attaining a master’s degree in IT security, underscoring one's ability to proficiently design, implement, and oversee cybersecurity programs.

The CISSP examination assesses candidates across eight domains within information security:

1. Security and Risk Management

2. Asset Security

3. Security Architecture and Engineering

4. Communication and Network Security

5. Identity and Access Management (IAM)

6. Security Assessment and Testing

7. Security Operations

8. Software Development Security

To attain this certification, candidates must also possess a minimum of five years of paid, relevant work experience in two or more of the CISSP domains.

For individuals lacking the requisite experience, there remains an opportunity to take the certification exam and achieve the status of Associate of ISC2 upon passing. Subsequently, they will have up to six years to acquire the necessary experience to fully earn the CISSP designation. The exam fee is $749 USD, and as of April 2024, the exam will undergo a refresh.

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11: ISACA - CERTIFIED INFORMATION SYSTEMS AUDITOR, CISA

AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY: $154,500

Retaining its position on the list this year is ISACA's Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification. In the previous year, it occupied the eleventh spot, with certification holders commanding an average salary of $142,336.

CISA-certified professionals play a vital role as intermediaries between technical, legal, and compliance teams, ensuring that organizations effectively protect privacy and manage risks in an efficient and cost-effective manner.

Established in 1978, the CISA certification is one of the industry's oldest and most esteemed credentials. It validates professionals' skills in auditing, risk management, and cybersecurity across the following domains:

1. Information Systems Auditing Process

2. Governance and Management of IT

3. Information Systems Acquisition, Development, and Implementation

4. Information Systems Operations and Business Resilience

5. Protection of Information Assets

To attain this certification, candidates must fulfill the minimum requirements and pass the exam. Similar to the CISM certification, individuals pursuing the CISA exam must possess a minimum of five years of professional auditing experience. The exam fee is $575 USD for ISACA members and $760 USD for non-members. Notably, an updated exam is scheduled to be introduced starting August 2024.

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12: AWS - CERTIFIED ADVANCED NETWORKING SPECIALTY

AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY: $153,031

The AWS Certified Advanced Networking - Specialty certification is tailored for individuals aiming to showcase their expertise in managing intricate networks.

As highlighted by findings from the IT Skills and Salary survey, a significant portion of IT leaders express reservations about their team's networking proficiencies, with over half rating them between medium and low. This underscores the scarcity of highly skilled professionals in this domain, with only a minority (7%) indicating high confidence in their team's capabilities. Consequently, specialists holding certifications such as this one wield substantial influence within their teams and often command lucrative salaries, as evidenced by the figures presented here.

Designed as a specialty certification, it targets candidates with a minimum of five years of relevant experience. Similar to other specialty certifications, AWS advises candidates to possess hands-on familiarity with AWS services, as well as expertise in security protocols and storage best practices. Furthermore, candidates are expected to demonstrate proficiency in networking architectures, interconnectivity options, automation script development, and network security.

To attain this certification, candidates must successfully pass the exam, comprising 65 questions and spanning 170 minutes. The examination fee is $300 USD.

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13: AWS - CERTIFIED DEVOPS ENGINEER PROFESSIONAL

AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY: $150,546

The AWS Certified DevOps Engineer - Professional certification serves as a testament to an individual's adeptness in overseeing and orchestrating distributed application systems within the AWS ecosystem. Notably, this certification has witnessed a surge in demand over recent years, as evidenced by heightened employer requirements for prospective hires, as reported by Lightcast.

Prospective candidates aiming for this certification are expected to possess a minimum of two years of hands-on experience in provisioning, operating, and managing AWS environments. Additionally, proficiency in at least one programming language is essential, along with a demonstrated ability to construct highly automated infrastructures. Supplementary skills that prove advantageous include:

- Proficiency in administering operating systems

- Familiarity with contemporary development methodologies

- Understanding of continuous delivery systems and security protocols within the AWS framework

To obtain this certification, candidates must successfully pass the examination, which incurs a fee of $300 USD and spans a duration of 180 minutes. The exam can be undertaken either at a Pearson VUE testing center or through online proctoring.

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14: BTA - CERTIFIED BLOCKCHAIN SECURITY PROFESSIONAL, CBSP

The Certified Blockchain Security Professional (CBSP) certification offered by the Blockchain Training Alliance marks its debut on this list, driven in part by the burgeoning demand for blockchain-related skills. Although previous data may have been limited due to a scarcity of responses, recent indications suggest a notable uptick in certifications within this domain. Moreover, insights from IT leaders underscore a prevalent sentiment regarding the need for enhanced blockchain proficiency within their teams, with a significant majority expressing concerns about the current skill levels.

The CBSP certification serves as a validation of an individual's mastery in blockchain security, encompassing a comprehensive examination of twelve key areas. These include fundamental aspects of blockchain security, smart contract security, and risk assessment specific to blockchain environments.

Designed to cater to a diverse range of professionals, including blockchain architects, developers, system administrators, and network security experts, this certification attests to their adeptness in identifying and mitigating security threats within blockchain networks. Furthermore, it underscores their proficiency in implementing best practices for safeguarding blockchain ecosystems.

To obtain the CBSP certification, candidates must successfully navigate a 70-question multiple-choice examination, spanning a duration of 90 minutes. Emphasizing practical application, the assessment evaluates candidates' ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. The exam, conducted online, incurs a fee of $275 USD.

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15: CISCO CERTIFIED NETWORK ASSOCIATE, CCNA

AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY: $128,651

The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification stands as a testament to your proficiency in navigating the dynamic landscape of information technology, encompassing core networking principles, security protocols, automation techniques, and more. Equipped with CCNA training, individuals acquire the requisite skills to adeptly manage and enhance sophisticated networks, thereby positioning themselves as invaluable assets within the IT realm.

Serving as a foundational milestone in a candidate's certification journey, CCNA lays the groundwork for pursuing more advanced credentials, such as Cisco's CCNP Enterprise, a notable contender on previous iterations of this list. While the number of respondents holding the CCNA certification in the U.S. this year falls short of the desired threshold for statistical reliability, insights gleaned from the available data indicate a promising earning potential, with an average reported salary of $160,399 among respondents.

Typically pursued by professionals assuming roles as network administrators or engineers, attaining the CCNA certification necessitates passing a comprehensive examination. This exam evaluates candidates' proficiency across a spectrum of topics, including network fundamentals, IP connectivity, security protocols, and automation methodologies.

Valid for a duration of three years, the CCNA certification underscores its holders' commitment to continuous professional development. Prospective candidates are required to schedule their exams through Pearson VUE testing centers globally, with the examination fee set at $300 USD. The exam itself extends over a duration of 120 minutes, serving as a pivotal stepping stone towards advancing one's career in the realm of networking and IT infrastructure management.

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16: AWS - CERTIFIED DEVELOPER ASSOCIATE

AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY: $127,259

The AWS Certified Developer – Associate certification serves as a hallmark of expertise in core AWS services, best practices, and the development of cloud-based applications. Acting as a foundational stepping stone, it lays a robust groundwork for individuals aspiring to pursue more advanced or specialized certifications within the AWS ecosystem, echoing the trajectory of numerous certifications featured on this prestigious list.

Tailored for professionals with a background in development roles, the certification is ideally suited for individuals proficient in at least one programming language and possessing a solid grasp of AWS fundamentals. Furthermore, candidates with substantial on-premises IT experience and a comprehensive understanding of the transition from on-premises to cloud environments stand to benefit significantly from obtaining this credential.

Achieving the AWS Certified Developer – Associate certification entails successfully navigating the certification exam, comprising 65 multiple-choice and multiple-response questions, with an allotted duration of approximately 130 minutes. The examination fee is $150 USD, and candidates have the flexibility to undertake the exam either at a Pearson VUE testing center or through the convenience of an online proctored examination, thereby facilitating accessibility and convenience for aspiring candidates seeking to augment their skill set and advance their careers in cloud computing.

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17: AWS - CERTIFIED DATABASE SPECIALTY

AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY: $122,677

The AWS Certified Database – Specialty certification validates an individual's proficiency in designing, administering, and recommending optimal database solutions tailored to meet the unique requirements of organizations.

In today's IT landscape, while a significant proportion of IT leaders express confidence in their teams' capabilities in this domain, with 39% acknowledging their staff's skills as somewhat high or high, a substantial 42% indicate that their team's proficiency falls within the mid-range. This disparity underscores the prevalent skills gap within data-focused teams, often leading to project constraints and heightened stress levels. Consequently, professionals who pursue and attain this certification emerge as invaluable assets, capable of bridging these skills gaps and fostering project success.

Designed for individuals with experience in administering both on-premises and cloud-based relational and non-relational databases, the certification mandates a minimum of five years of relevant experience, including at least two years of hands-on involvement with AWS services. Candidates are expected to demonstrate proficiency in designing database solutions utilizing AWS services, aligning them with the organization's specific needs and objectives.

The certification examination, lasting 180 minutes and priced at $300 USD, comprises 65 questions, which may be presented in multiple-choice or multiple-response formats. Offering flexibility, the exam can be undertaken either at a Pearson VUE testing center or via online proctoring, accommodating the diverse needs and preferences of aspiring candidates seeking to validate their expertise in database management within the AWS ecosystem.

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18: COMPTIA - - SECURITY+

AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY: $121,653

CompTIA's Security+ certification consistently ranks among the most sought-after IT certifications, often appearing at various positions on this list in previous years. While highly popular, achieving success in this exam is no small feat, as it entails comprehensive preparation and a deep understanding of a wide array of topics.

Upon earning the Security+ certification, professionals unlock avenues for career advancement and skill enhancement within the realm of cybersecurity. Moreover, it frequently serves as a prerequisite for employment opportunities and aligns with the Department of Defense's directive 8140/8570.01-M, further underlining its significance in the industry.

Recently updated, the new CompTIA Security+ exam, launched on Nov. 7, 2023, introduces revised exam domains. Prospective candidates are encouraged to consult their training provider or CompTIA for detailed information regarding these changes and recommended study materials to prepare effectively for the exam.

Outlined below are the updated exam domains:

1. General Security Concepts

2. Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations

3. Security Architecture

4. Security Operations

5. Security Program Management and Oversight

The exam itself carries a fee of $392 USD, comprises 90 questions, and has a duration of 90 minutes. Candidates are advised to possess CompTIA Network+ certification and a minimum of two years of professional IT experience before attempting this rigorous assessment.

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19: COMPTIA - CYSA+ CYBERSECURITY ANALYST

AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY: $121,043

Serving as an intermediate security credential within CompTIA's certification lineup, the CySA+, or Cybersecurity Analyst, bridges the gap between the foundational Security+ and the advanced CASP+, or Advanced Security Practitioner, which requires a minimum of five years of professional experience.

Candidates aspiring to attain the CySA+ certification undergo rigorous assessments focusing on various aspects such as threat detection techniques, data analysis, vulnerability identification, incident response capabilities, and more. Notably, the latest exam iteration, updated in June 2023, places increased emphasis on threat hunting, automating intelligence, and leveraging diverse tools for monitoring and incident response.

The revised CySA+ exam encompasses the following domains, as specified by CompTIA:

1. Security Operations (33%)

2. Vulnerability Management (30%)

3. Incident Response Management (20%)

4. Reporting and Communication (17%)

The examination consists of up to 85 questions and extends over a duration of 165 minutes. Prospective candidates are advised to possess foundational knowledge equivalent to CompTIA Network+ and Security+ certifications, alongside approximately four years of hands-on experience in the field of cybersecurity.

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20: MICROSOFT - CERTIFIED AZURE ADMINISTRATOR ASSOCIATE

AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY: $120,622

Microsoft's Azure Administrator Associate certification ranks among the most sought-after credentials offered by the company, trailing closely behind its Azure Fundamentals certification, as per insights from the IT Skills and Salary survey.

Consistently, Microsoft emerges as one of the top certification providers featured in the survey, reflecting its prominence in the industry. Furthermore, it stands out as the primary vendor IT leaders intend to invest in for the upcoming year, with 46% expressing their inclination towards Microsoft technologies.

The survey underscores the pivotal role of certifications in supporting product or solution deployments, elucidating why Microsoft certifications remain in high demand. For prospective hires, certifications serve as a hallmark of competence, assuring IT leaders of candidates' proficiency and suitability for the role.

The Azure Administrator Associate certification validates a candidate's aptitude in administering Azure environments within an enterprise context. To earn this credential, candidates must demonstrate expertise in implementing, managing, and monitoring Azure environments, encompassing areas such as virtual networks, storage, compute, identity, security, and governance.

The certification exam evaluates candidates' proficiency across the following domains:

1. Azure identity and governance management

2. Storage implementation and management

3. Azure compute resource deployment and management

4. Virtual networking implementation and management

5. Azure resource monitoring and maintenance

Candidates are expected to possess a solid grasp of operating systems, networking, servers, and virtualization. Additionally, familiarity with tools like PowerShell, Azure CLI, Azure portal, Azure Resource Manager templates, and Microsoft Enterprise ID is recommended. The examination fee is $165 USD.

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