Whether it rains in your city or not, cloud technologies have been raining data heavily all over the world for several years now. Since the advent of cloud computing more than two decades ago, it has steadily gained popularity, penetrating businesses and consumers alike. Enterprise cloud solutions have become a reality for most of the top IT firms, and several others are readily following suit.
There are several cloud solutions available in the market, sold by different conglomerates as IaaS solutions. Here’s everything you need to know about Amazon Web Services (AWS).
What is AWS?
AWS stands for Amazon Web Services, the IaaS cloud solution offered by Amazon. It is a pay-as-you-go on-demand cloud infrastructure marketed for personal use, business needs, and even government requirements. Users acquire these services on a subscription basis and can upscale or downscale as and when required. It serves several purposes for different types of users, including data storage and management, applications development, database management, payment services, app services, mobile networking and more.
AWS stands against two other IaaS providers of the same scale – Google and Microsoft. Each of these cloud solutions are different in their deployment and configuration. AWS Certification prepares an IT professional for Amazon Web Services only.
AWS Certification for Big Data Engineering
AWS training programs are distinguished based on difficulty levels. AWS Certification for Big Data Engineering, in particular, is a Specialty training that requires two to five years of deep technical experience in the industry segment.
This course validates the IT professional’s skills and knowledge regarding the design and implementation of AWS services to generate value from data. It teaches the ability to understand and perform complex Big Data Analyses while accommodating basic architecture practices. The AWS certified individual cannot only understand big data but also leverage the tools necessary to automate big data processes.
Big Data is in its adolescence. Industries have begun to realize the potential of data transformation and analysis. They are increasingly investing a bigger portion of their budget in developing this business process. So acquiring an AWS Certification for Big Data engineering at this point can be the best decision any IT professional can make.
Benefits of AWS Certification
There are several benefits associated with AWS Certification. Here’s a few to get you started:
Professional Skills Validation
AWS Certification has a notable standing in the market. Those who’ve cleared these examinations are automatically considered appropriate for cloud services management.
Excellent Remuneration
Since these certifications are not easy to clear and there is a very limited number of IT professionals clearing it every year, their remuneration and compensation packages are much higher than normal. They can usually get away with their demands without negotiations.
Digital Badges
AWS Certification offers digital badges to put on social and/or professional channels. This adds value to your profile, both in terms of resume and authority figures in the world of Information Technology.
Exam Discount
Generally, AWS Certifications can cost anywhere between $100 and $300 per exam. When you’re enrolled in AWS Certification, you can get up to 50% discount as per the policy implemented at that time.
Event Recognition
Amazon holds events for its certified professionals. You not only get exclusive invitations for these events, but you also get to access premium member-only areas of the site without any additional charges.
AWS Certified Global Community
AWS hones a global community where all certified professionals meet and exchange ideas. You get to be a part of it, interacting with like-minded individuals for greater understanding of professional ups and downs.
Free Practice and Knowledge Material
Being enrolled in AWS Certification grants you free access to practice tests and preparation materials, both of which help you achieve your bottom line in the long run.
Tips to Prepare
According to most IT professionals who have been there and done that, it takes about 80 hours of study for an experienced professional and about 120 hours for starters to adequately cover the concepts available in the course. This can take anywhere between two and three months, along with a full-time job. To speed up things further, here are four tips that will help you prepare for the AWS Certification:
Take A Training Class
There are many online courses built to educate IT professionals about everything they need to know before they attempt the AWS certification exam. Enroll in any one of these to get started on your journey. Make sure you read the reviews for the selected program to completely understand what you’re receiving for the money you invest.
Review Course Outline And Samples
Training alone isn’t enough. It is more important to review and understand the course outline, so you know exactly what is being covered. Check out a few sample question papers to get a better idea about what may happen in the real exam. Preparation is all about giving you the desired set of skills and knowledge before you’re required to put them to use.
Study Whitepapers
AWS publishes whitepapers frequently to update individuals about the ins and outs of the industry. Make sure you’re subscribed to these and read them regularly to familiarize yourself with industry trends.
Attempt Practice Examinations
Yes, AWS offers practice examination sessions as well. These are timed and have the same difficulty as anticipated on the exam day. These practice sessions can give you a realistic idea about where you stand without taking the actual examination.
Bottom Line
So what are you still waiting for? Get enrolled today and get started on your journey to be the next most sought-after IT professional in your town!