Is the AWS Advanced Networking Worth It?

In the ever-expanding universe of cloud computing, AWS reigns supreme. As the undisputed market leader, its infrastructure services power countless businesses worldwide. This dominance fuels an insatiable demand for skilled professionals who can design, implement, and manage sophisticated network configurations within the AWS ecosystem. If you're looking to carve out a niche as a top-tier cloud networking expert, the AWS Advanced Networking – Specialty (ANS-C01) certification might be your golden ticket. But is this notoriously tough certification truly worth the effort? Let's break it down. What is the AWS Advanced Networking – Specialty Certification (ANS-C01)? The AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty is not for the faint of heart. It's an expert-level certification designed for seasoned IT professionals who architect and manage complex network systems operating on, or interconnected with, the AWS cloud platform. This isn't an entry-level badge. Amazon targets this certification towards experienced network engineers boasting at least five years of hands-on experience in both general and AWS-specific network architecture, design, implementation, and management. To conquer this cert, you'll need a profound understanding of: Advanced AWS networking services (VPC, Direct Connect, Transit Gateway, Route 53, ELB, etc.) General networking principles and interconnectivity Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) and inter-domain routing IPv4 and IPv6 subnetting and transition mechanisms Automation scripting for network tasks Network security best practices: Web Application Firewalls (WAF), IPsec, Intrusion Detection/Protection Systems (IDS/IPS), and DDoS/EDoS mitigation. While there are no mandatory prerequisite certifications, Amazon strongly recommends holding an AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification or one of the Associate-level certs (Solutions Architect, Developer, or SysOps Administrator) before tackling this specialty. To earn the certification, you must pass the AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty (ANS-C01) examination, which validates your prowess in architecting, designing, deploying, and maintaining robust cloud-based networking solutions using the full spectrum of AWS capabilities. Cracking the Code: What's on the AWS Advanced Networking Certification Exam? The ANS-C01 exam can be taken from home with online proctoring or at a designated testing center. You'll have 170 minutes to navigate 65 multiple-choice and multiple-response questions. The exam content is divided into the following domains: Design and Implement Hybrid IT Network Architectures at Scale (23%): Connecting your on-premises world seamlessly and securely with AWS. Design and Implement AWS Networks (29%): Building resilient, scalable, and cost-effective networks purely within AWS. Automate AWS Tasks (8%): Leveraging scripting and infrastructure-as-code for network operations. Configure Network Integration with Application Services (15%): Ensuring your applications can communicate effectively and securely. Design and Implement for Security and Compliance (12%): Embedding security and compliance into every layer of your network design. Manage, Optimize, and Troubleshoot the Network (13%): Keeping the network healthy, performant, and resolving issues swiftly. For an in-depth look at each domain and sample questions, be sure to consult the official AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty (ANS-C01) exam guide. The Investment: How Much Does the Exam Cost? The AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty (ANS-C01) examination costs $300 USD per attempt. If you don't pass on your first try, there's a 14-day waiting period before you can retake (and repay for) the exam. Who Should Aim for AWS Advanced Networking Expertise? This certification is a significant value-add for professionals deeply involved in the networking aspects of AWS cloud and hybrid solutions. Key roles include: Network Architects Network Engineers DevOps Engineers (with a networking focus) Solutions Architects (specializing in network design) If you're already holding certifications like CCNA, CCNP Enterprise, or CompTIA Network+, the AWS Advanced Networking – Specialty is an ideal complement, especially when working in hybrid environments that bridge on-premises infrastructure with the AWS cloud. Increasingly, organizations migrating to or already leveraging AWS expect their cloud teams to possess this specialized networking knowledge. You'll find roles requiring this certification in end-user organizations and, very commonly, in consulting services firms tasked with implementing robust AWS solutions for clients. AWS Career: Job Opportunities with AWS Advanced Networking Holding the AWS Advanced Networking – Specialty certification can significantly boost your career prospects. Let's look at a couple of key roles: AWS Cloud Networkin

May 6, 2025 - 15:33

Is the AWS Advanced Networking Worth It?

In the ever-expanding universe of cloud computing, AWS reigns supreme. As the undisputed market leader, its infrastructure services power countless businesses worldwide. This dominance fuels an insatiable demand for skilled professionals who can design, implement, and manage sophisticated network configurations within the AWS ecosystem. If you're looking to carve out a niche as a top-tier cloud networking expert, the AWS Advanced Networking – Specialty (ANS-C01) certification might be your golden ticket.

But is this notoriously tough certification truly worth the effort? Let's break it down.

What is the AWS Advanced Networking – Specialty Certification (ANS-C01)?

The AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty is not for the faint of heart. It's an expert-level certification designed for seasoned IT professionals who architect and manage complex network systems operating on, or interconnected with, the AWS cloud platform.

This isn't an entry-level badge. Amazon targets this certification towards experienced network engineers boasting at least five years of hands-on experience in both general and AWS-specific network architecture, design, implementation, and management. To conquer this cert, you'll need a profound understanding of:

Advanced AWS networking services (VPC, Direct Connect, Transit Gateway, Route 53, ELB, etc.)
General networking principles and interconnectivity
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) and inter-domain routing
IPv4 and IPv6 subnetting and transition mechanisms
Automation scripting for network tasks
Network security best practices: Web Application Firewalls (WAF), IPsec, Intrusion Detection/Protection Systems (IDS/IPS), and DDoS/EDoS mitigation.

While there are no mandatory prerequisite certifications, Amazon strongly recommends holding an AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification or one of the Associate-level certs (Solutions Architect, Developer, or SysOps Administrator) before tackling this specialty.
To earn the certification, you must pass the AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty (ANS-C01) examination, which validates your prowess in architecting, designing, deploying, and maintaining robust cloud-based networking solutions using the full spectrum of AWS capabilities.

Cracking the Code: What's on the AWS Advanced Networking Certification Exam?

The ANS-C01 exam can be taken from home with online proctoring or at a designated testing center. You'll have 170 minutes to navigate 65 multiple-choice and multiple-response questions. The exam content is divided into the following domains:
Design and Implement Hybrid IT Network Architectures at Scale (23%): Connecting your on-premises world seamlessly and securely with AWS.

Design and Implement AWS Networks (29%): Building resilient, scalable, and cost-effective networks purely within AWS.
Automate AWS Tasks (8%): Leveraging scripting and infrastructure-as-code for network operations.
Configure Network Integration with Application Services (15%): Ensuring your applications can communicate effectively and securely.
Design and Implement for Security and Compliance (12%): Embedding security and compliance into every layer of your network design.
Manage, Optimize, and Troubleshoot the Network (13%): Keeping the network healthy, performant, and resolving issues swiftly.

For an in-depth look at each domain and sample questions, be sure to consult the official AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty (ANS-C01) exam guide.

The Investment: How Much Does the Exam Cost?

The AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty (ANS-C01) examination costs $300 USD per attempt. If you don't pass on your first try, there's a 14-day waiting period before you can retake (and repay for) the exam.

Who Should Aim for AWS Advanced Networking Expertise?

This certification is a significant value-add for professionals deeply involved in the networking aspects of AWS cloud and hybrid solutions. Key roles include:

Network Architects
Network Engineers
DevOps Engineers (with a networking focus)
Solutions Architects (specializing in network design)

If you're already holding certifications like CCNA, CCNP Enterprise, or CompTIA Network+, the AWS Advanced Networking – Specialty is an ideal complement, especially when working in hybrid environments that bridge on-premises infrastructure with the AWS cloud.

Increasingly, organizations migrating to or already leveraging AWS expect their cloud teams to possess this specialized networking knowledge. You'll find roles requiring this certification in end-user organizations and, very commonly, in consulting services firms tasked with implementing robust AWS solutions for clients.

AWS Career: Job Opportunities with AWS Advanced Networking

Holding the AWS Advanced Networking – Specialty certification can significantly boost your career prospects. Let's look at a couple of key roles:

AWS Cloud Networking Engineers

Candidates for AWS Cloud Networking Engineer or Network Specialist roles are typically expected to have 5+ years of experience with secure, complex hybrid and AWS environments. They often work within larger cloud teams, guiding projects from initiation through design, deployment, and ongoing support of core AWS networking and automation services. Your responsibilities would include identifying and configuring network connectivity and security requirements, then monitoring them for capacity, performance, and threats.

DevOps Cloud Engineers

DevOps is crucial for agile and efficient solution deployment. In an AWS or hybrid cloud context, a DevOps Cloud Engineer with advanced networking skills supports the design, development, and continuous delivery of cloud solutions. A key part of their role is driving the automation of operational processes for deploying AWS cloud solutions, where network automation plays a critical part. This is a senior role, often requiring 5+ years of experience and potentially building upon certifications like AWS Certified Developer – Associate or AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional.

The Million-Dollar Question: Is the AWS Advanced Networking Certification Worth It?

The AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty is a newer addition compared to the well-established Professional-level certifications like Solutions Architect or DevOps Engineer. However, its recognition and value are rapidly increasing.
Here's why it's often considered highly worth it:

Niche Expertise: It carves out a specialized, in-demand skill set. General cloud knowledge is common; deep networking expertise in AWS is rarer and more valuable.
Top-Tier Recognition: Specialty certifications sit at the apex of the AWS certification pyramid. Holding one immediately signals a high level of expertise.
Increased Earning Potential: Specialized skills command higher salaries.
Competitive Edge: In a crowded job market, this certification can be a significant differentiator, especially for roles explicitly mentioning it or listing it as an alternative to Professional-level certs.
Consulting Power: For those in consulting, this certification is a powerful credential to showcase expertise and win client confidence.
Solves Real-World Problems: The knowledge gained directly translates to solving complex hybrid connectivity, scaling, security, and performance challenges in AWS.

While it's a challenging and expensive exam, the career benefits and the depth of knowledge gained make the AWS Advanced Networking – Specialty a compelling proposition for dedicated networking professionals looking to lead in the cloud era.

The Verdict: If you are serious about becoming an expert in AWS networking, and you have the foundational experience, then yes, the AWS Advanced Networking – Specialty certification is absolutely worth it. It's an investment in a high-demand, high-value skill set that can significantly elevate your career trajectory.
What are your thoughts? Are you studying for the ANS-C01, or have you already passed it? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!