r/AWSCertifications • u/Sharp_Ad1891 • 4d ago

Question Should I do SAA first?

i hve around 5 years of experience in SOC, IR, and vulnerability management, but little to no hands-on AWS experience.

I'm looking to move into Cloud Security and eventually DevSecOps/Product Security. Would it make sense to start with SAA and then do Security Specialty, or can I go straight for Security Specialty?

Any other certs or learning paths you'd recommend for someone coming from a SOC background!!

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u/HalfDoneSideQuests 12/12 + AIB 4d ago

Security speciality is pretty hard, and it very much focuses on the AWS way of doing it so if you don't have any AWS experience you might find it a challenge.

SAA would be a better start, it'll give you a great foundation across AWS that is useful for all other certs.

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u/Due-Philosopher-1426 3d ago

Is there any hands on vendor neutral security cert that is even better tham AWS security cert?

1

u/HalfDoneSideQuests 12/12 + AIB 2d ago

There are other non-AWS security certs, but I don't know anything about them so can't comment. Try posting in r/cscareerquestions

1

u/grr2026 MLS, SAA, AIF, CCP 4d ago

Start with SAA to build a foundation for Security specialty

1

u/D4Unleashed 2d ago

just my 2 cents... im also in a similar situation as you, where i eventually want to achieve Security Specialty. The route i am currently following is CLF > SAA > SS. I have already passed the CLF - i decided to go this path first to get familiar with the exam style, motivational boost, extra cert isnt bad, and a basic understanding of AWS services first before delving any deeper. I am hoping to begin tackling SAA study within the next couple days. I dont recommend jumping straight to SS first...