AZ-900 vs CLF-C02: which certification should you take first?

Two of the most popular certifications for getting into cloud are Microsoft's AZ-900 and AWS's CLF-C02. Both are foundational-level, both cost around USD 100, and both show up constantly in job requirements. But they're not the same.

What does each one measure?

The AZ-900 focuses on general cloud concepts and on Azure services specifically. If you already know your company uses or plans to use Azure, this is the obvious answer.

The CLF-C02 also covers cloud fundamentals, but with depth in the AWS ecosystem: billing, support, core services, and the shared responsibility model. Security accounts for 30% of the exam.

Key differences

The AZ-900 covers more Azure-specific services and puts a lot of weight on management and governance; the CLF-C02 focuses more on security, billing, and support.

💡 If your current job or the one you're looking for mentions Azure → AZ-900. If it mentions AWS → CLF-C02. If neither → start with the AZ-900, since its exam never expires and the official study material is free on Microsoft Learn.

Which one has more market value?

It depends on the company and the region. Azure is especially strong in large enterprises that already rely on Microsoft, while AWS is still the standard in startups and tech-first companies. Check the job postings in your target market to see which one comes up more. If you can do both, do them — but don't start both at the same time.

Practice before you register Brains4Cloud has practice exams for both the AZ-900 and the CLF-C02, with a guide for each: AZ-900 and CLF-C02. Create your free account, take a practice exam for each, and see which one feels more natural — that can also help you decide.