CLF-C02 vs AZ-104: Which One Provides a Better Foundation for Cloud Careers?

Cloud computing is booming, and getting certified can open up exciting career opportunities. But if you’re just starting, choosing the right cloud practitioner certification, can be confusing. Two popular options, AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner (CLF-C02) and Microsoft Azure Administrator (AZ-104), often come up in discussions.

CLF-C02 is an entry-level certification that introduces cloud concepts, making it great for beginners. AZ-104, on the other hand, is more technical and focuses on managing Azure environments. So, which one is better for your cloud career?

The answer depends on your goals, experience, and the cloud platform you want to work with. In this guide, we’ll break down CLF-C02 vs AZ-104, covering job opportunities, salaries, difficulty levels, and long-term value.

CLF-C02 vs AZ-104 Detailed Comparison

Feature	CLF-C02	AZ-104
Cloud Provider	Amazon Web Services (AWS)	Microsoft Azure
Target Audience	Beginners, aspiring AWS professionals	IT professionals, Azure administrators
Exam Focus	AWS services, security, cloud economics, pricing models	Azure administration, networking, compute, storage, security
Exam Difficulty	Slightly deeper, requires some tech understanding	Intermediate, requires hands-on Azure experience
Best For	Beginners who want AWS knowledge or plan to take advanced AWS certs	IT professionals managing Azure environments
Number of Questions	65	40-60
Exam Duration	90 minutes	120 minutes
Exam Format	Multiple-choice, multiple-answer	Multiple-choice, case studies
Passing Score	Variable (scaled scoring)	700/1000
Certification Validity	3 years	1 year
Cost	$100 USD	$165 USD

CLF-C02: What’s It All About?

Cloud computing is no longer just an option, it is the backbone of modern business operations. Companies are constantly shifting from traditional IT setups to cloud-based infrastructure, which means cloud-related skills are in high demand. That is where certifications like AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner (CLF-C02) come in. This is Amazon’s entry-level, cloud practitioner certification, designed for individuals who want to understand the basics of AWS and cloud computing without getting into deep technical details.

Unlike advanced AWS certifications that focus on hands-on experience and configuration, CLF-C02 is more about understanding how AWS works, why businesses rely on it, and how its services fit into the broader cloud landscape. If you want a deeper dive into this certification, check out our CLF-C02 certification guide to explore exam details, study tips, and career benefits. It is an ideal starting point for those new to cloud technology, whether they plan to work in technical or non-technical roles.

What Does CLF-C02 Cover?

CLF-C02 is structured around fundamental cloud concepts rather than complex technical configurations. Instead of learning how to build cloud infrastructure, this certification focuses on what AWS offers, how it functions, and why organizations use it.

Some of the key areas covered in the exam include:

• Cloud Concepts – Understanding the core principles of cloud computing, including scalability, elasticity, and on-demand resources.
• AWS Core Services – A broad overview of major AWS services, such as EC2 (virtual machines), S3 (cloud storage), RDS (databases), and Lambda (serverless computing).
• Security and Compliance – Basics of AWS security measures, encryption, identity and access management (IAM), and compliance frameworks.
• Billing and Pricing – AWS pricing models, cost management, and the factors that influence cloud spending.
• AWS Architecture Best Practices – An introduction to how AWS services work together to build scalable, resilient applications.

This certification does not require hands-on experience with AWS, but having basic familiarity with the AWS Management Console can be helpful. It is more about understanding cloud computing at a strategic level rather than configuring services yourself.

Who Should Take CLF-C02?

This certification is designed for anyone who wants to understand AWS fundamentals, regardless of their technical background. It is particularly useful for:

• Beginners exploring cloud computing – If you have no prior cloud experience and need a structured way to learn the basics, CLF-C02 is a solid starting point.
• Non-technical professionals working in IT or cloud-related fields – If you work in sales, marketing, finance, or project management and interact with cloud teams, this certification helps you understand AWS terminology and business use cases.
• Students and recent graduates – If you want to stand out when applying for jobs in IT or cloud-related roles, this cert gives you a foundational understanding of cloud concepts.
• IT professionals shifting to cloud roles – If you have experience in traditional IT (networking, system administration, or software development) and want to transition into cloud computing, CLF-C02 can serve as an introduction before diving into more advanced AWS certifications.
• Business owners and decision-makers – If your company is moving to AWS or already using cloud services, this cert helps you understand pricing, security, and operational benefits without requiring a technical background.

If you are aiming to become a cloud engineer, certified solutions architect associate, or DevOps professional, this certification alone will not be enough. However, it can be a useful first step before moving on to more technical certifications like AWS Solutions Architect Associate.

What Kind of Jobs Can CLF-C02 Help With?

While CLF-C02 does not qualify you for high-level cloud engineering roles, it can still help you break into cloud-related jobs. The certification is valuable for:

• Cloud Sales and Account Management – Many companies selling AWS-based products or services prefer employees who understand cloud concepts.
• Project and Product Management – IT project managers working with cloud teams benefit from knowing AWS fundamentals.
• Cloud Support and Help Desk Roles – Some entry-level technical support jobs in cloud companies prefer candidates with AWS knowledge.
• Marketing and Technical Writing – Content creators, documentation specialists, and marketers working in cloud-focused industries need an understanding of AWS terminology and services.

For technical roles like Cloud Architect, DevOps Engineer, or Cloud Security Specialist, CLF-C02 alone is not enough. It provides a foundation, but you will need additional certifications and hands-on experience to qualify for advanced cloud positions.

Can CLF-C02 Help You Get a Job?

This certification can help, but it is not a guaranteed ticket to a cloud job. It depends on your existing skills and career goals.

• If you are working in sales, marketing, consulting, or management roles, CLF-C02 can be a valuable asset. It gives you cloud knowledge without requiring technical expertise, which can improve your job prospects.
• If you are new to IT and looking to enter the cloud industry, this cert alone will not be enough. Employers hiring for cloud-related technical positions look for hands-on experience with AWS. CLF-C02 is best used as a stepping stone to more advanced certs.
• If you already have IT experience, this cert can help you transition into cloud-related roles, but you will likely need additional certifications like AWS Solutions Architect Associate or AWS SysOps Administrator.

It is useful for opening doors, but not enough on its own to secure high-paying cloud jobs.

How Hard Is CLF-C02?

Compared to other AWS certifications, CLF-C02 is one of the easiest. It is designed as an entry-level certification, which means:

• No coding knowledge required – Unlike technical AWS certs, this one focuses on concepts rather than implementation.
• Multiple-choice questions only – The exam consists of 65 multiple-choice and multiple-response questions.
• Basic cloud knowledge is enough – You do not need prior experience working with AWS to pass.
• Short preparation time – Most people with some cloud knowledge pass with 2–4 weeks of study, while complete beginners might need a month or more. To speed up your preparation, try CLF-C02 exam dumps from Cert Empire for real exam-style questions.
• Passing score – Around 700 out of 1000 is required to pass.

If you are comfortable with basic IT concepts and cloud terminology, you should not find this exam too difficult. However, rushing into it without studying the core topics can still result in failure.

It depends on your goals.

• If you are new to cloud computing and need a starting point, CLF-C02 is a good choice.
• If you work in a non-technical role but want to understand cloud concepts, this cert can be valuable.
• If you plan to pursue a technical AWS career, CLF-C02 is just a foundation, and you will need to follow up with more advanced certifications.
• If you want a high-paying cloud job, this cert alone will not be enough, you will need to gain practical experience and additional AWS certs.

For serious AWS professionals, it is a stepping stone, not the end goal. If you are looking to build a strong cloud career, CLF-C02 is best used as a launching pad before moving on to AWS Associate-level certifications.

AZ-104: A Deeper Dive Into Microsoft’s Azure Associate Certification

Cloud computing certification isn’t just about AWS, Microsoft Azure is another giant in the space, with companies worldwide relying on its services. If you’re considering AZ-104, check out our AZ-104 certification guide for an in-depth breakdown of the exam, job roles, and career advantages. AZ-104: Microsoft Azure Administrator is an intermediate-level certification that focuses on managing Azure environments. Unlike AWS’s foundational CLF-C02, this cert isn’t just about knowing cloud concepts—it requires hands-on experience.

If you’re looking to work directly with Azure, manage cloud resources, and troubleshoot real-world cloud environments, AZ-104 is a strong choice. But it is not a beginner-friendly exam like CLF-C02.

What Skills Does AZ-104 Validate?

AZ-104 is a technical certification that confirms you have the skills to manage Azure-based IT infrastructure. It is not an intro-level cert, it assumes you already have some cloud or IT experience.

Key skills covered in AZ-104 include:

• Azure Identity and Access Management (IAM) – Managing users, roles, and permissions in Azure AD, implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA), and configuring security policies.
• Azure Compute Services – Deploying, managing, and monitoring virtual machines (VMs), containers, and serverless applications.
• Storage Solutions – Configuring Azure Blob Storage, File Shares, and Backup options, as well as monitoring and securing storage.
• Networking in Azure – Setting up virtual networks, load balancers, VPNs, firewalls, and DNS services.
• Monitoring and Performance Optimization – Using Azure Monitor, Log Analytics, and alerts to keep cloud environments running smoothly.
• Backup and Disaster Recovery – Managing Azure Backup, Site Recovery, and high availability configurations.

AZ-104 focuses on implementation, meaning you are expected to deploy and manage Azure resources, not just understand how they work.

Who Should Consider AZ-104? Is It Too Advanced for Newcomers?

AZ-104 is not a beginner’s certification. Microsoft recommends at least 6 months of hands-on Azure experience before attempting it. This cert is meant for IT professionals who are already working with Azure or managing cloud resources in an enterprise setting.

AZ-104 is a good fit for:

• Cloud Administrators – People who manage Azure services, infrastructure, and security policies on a daily basis.
• System Administrators & IT Support Teams – If you’re managing on-prem infrastructure and shifting to Azure, this cert helps bridge the gap.
• Network & Security Engineers – Since AZ-104 covers networking, security, and identity management, it’s useful for IT pros specializing in these areas.
• DevOps and Cloud Engineers – If you’re working on automation, infrastructure as code (IaC), or cloud operations, AZ-104 provides foundational knowledge.
• IT Professionals Transitioning to Cloud – If you have experience in Windows Server, Linux, networking, or virtualization, this cert helps move your skills to the cloud.

If you are completely new to cloud computing, AZ-104 might be overwhelming. It is not designed for beginners, and without prior Azure experience, passing the exam will be difficult. Those new to cloud should start with Microsoft’s AZ-900 (Azure Fundamentals) before attempting AZ-104.

What Types of Jobs Can AZ-104 Help Secure?

Unlike CLF-C02, which is mostly an awareness-level cert, AZ-104 prepares you for hands-on technical roles. Employers looking for cloud professionals to deploy, manage, and troubleshoot Azure environments often list AZ-104 as a preferred qualification.

Some common job roles that AZ-104 aligns with:

• Azure Administrator – Managing Azure virtual machines, networking, storage, and security for organizations.
• Cloud Engineer – Working on cloud deployments, migrations, and operations in Azure environments.
• Systems Administrator – Maintaining hybrid cloud and on-prem infrastructure, ensuring smooth Azure integration.
• DevOps Engineer (Entry-Level) – Some DevOps teams use AZ-104 as a foundation before moving into CI/CD pipelines, automation, and infrastructure as code.
• IT Support & Help Desk (Cloud-Focused) – Troubleshooting Azure services, permissions, and networking issues for businesses.

For higher-level cloud roles like Solutions Architect, Security Engineer, or DevOps Lead, AZ-104 is a stepping stone, but not enough on its own. More advanced certs like AZ-305 (Solutions Architect) or AZ-400 (DevOps Engineer) are needed for those career paths.

How Much Hands-On Knowledge Is Required?

Unlike CLF-C02, which is theory-based, AZ-104 is hands-on. You must be able to use the Azure portal, Azure CLI, and PowerShell to configure services, troubleshoot issues, and manage resources.

Microsoft recommends:

• 6+ months of Azure experience – Working with VMs, networking, storage, and security policies.
• Familiarity with Azure AD & IAM – Setting up roles, permissions, and MFA.
• Basic networking skills – Configuring virtual networks, VPNs, firewalls, and DNS settings in Azure.
• Ability to deploy and manage cloud resources – Creating VMs, setting up storage, handling backups, and monitoring performance.

If you need targeted practice, AZ-104 exam dumps from Cert Empire provide real-world scenarios to boost your confidence.

If you have never worked with Azure in a real environment, expect a steep learning curve. Many people set up Azure free-tier accounts or use Microsoft Learn’s sandbox environments to get hands-on practice before taking the exam.

Exam Structure, Complexity, and Study Requirements

AZ-104 is a mid-level, certification exam, meaning it is harder than a fundamentals exam but not as advanced as architect or DevOps certifications. The exam format includes:

• 60 multiple-choice and case study-based questions
• Duration: 120 minutes
• Passing Score: Around 700 out of 1000
• Question Types: Multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and case studies
• Cost: Around $165 USD

Expect scenario-based questions where you have to choose the best solution for a given problem, often requiring knowledge of multiple Azure services.

CLF-C02 vs AZ-104 Career Paths: Where Does Each One Lead?

Cloud certifications are a great way to enter the industry, but not all certs serve the same purpose. CLF-C02 and AZ-104 are designed for different levels of expertise, so the career paths they open up also differ.

• CLF-C02 is a foundational-level AWS certification meant for beginners wanting to be AWS Certified Solutions Architect. It is ideal for those looking to understand cloud basics, whether they are from a technical or non-technical background.
• AZ-104 is a mid-level certification for Azure administrators, designed for IT professionals with some experience in cloud infrastructure. It focuses on hands-on cloud management and is far more technical than CLF-C02.

Both certifications are valuable, but the path you choose depends on where you want to go in your cloud career.

Which One is Better for Beginners Looking to Enter Cloud Computing?

If you are completely new to cloud computing, CLF-C02 is the better choice. It is designed for beginners, does not require prior experience, and provides a high-level understanding of cloud concepts.

• CLF-C02 covers AWS basics—cloud models, pricing, security, and major services. It is great for people trying to understand cloud technology without diving into technical configurations.
• AZ-104 is technical and hands-on—it assumes you have experience managing IT infrastructure and working with Azure services. If you are new to IT, AZ-104 will likely be overwhelming.

CLF-C02 vs AZ-104 Job Opportunities: What Roles Open Up After Certification?

The types of jobs you can get after earning these certs are quite different.

CLF-C02 Job Opportunities:

• Cloud Sales & Business Roles – Sales representatives, account managers, and business development professionals who need to understand AWS solutions.
• IT Project Managers – Cloud-focused project managers who work with AWS teams but do not need hands-on skills.
• Technical Support & Help Desk Roles – Entry-level support jobs where AWS knowledge is helpful but not mandatory.
• Marketing & Content Creation – Content writers, technical bloggers, or cloud product marketers who need to understand AWS concepts.

CLF-C02 does not qualify you for technical cloud jobs like cloud engineer or architect. However, it helps non-technical professionals gain cloud awareness and makes it easier to move toward more advanced AWS certifications.

AZ-104 Job Opportunities:

• Azure Administrator – Managing Azure infrastructure, virtual machines, networking, and storage.
• Cloud Engineer – Implementing, monitoring, and troubleshooting cloud environments.
• Systems Administrator – Maintaining both on-prem and cloud infrastructure in hybrid IT environments.
• DevOps Associate – Managing cloud automation and deployment pipelines (though AZ-400 is better for full DevOps roles).
• Network & Security Administrator – Handling Azure network configurations, VPNs, and security policies.

AZ-104 leads directly into technical hands-on cloud jobs, whereas CLF-C02 is more of an awareness-level certification that complements existing job roles rather than creating new career paths on its own.

Salary Comparison: Does One Lead to Higher Pay?

Salaries in cloud computing depend on more than just certification—experience, location, and job role play a bigger role than having a few specialty certifications alone. However, we can still compare how CLF-C02 vs. AZ-104 impacts earning potential.

Certification	Average Salary (USD)	Typical Job Roles
CLF-C02	$60,000 – $85,000	Entry-level cloud roles, sales, project management, support
AZ-104	$90,000 – $120,000	Azure administrator, cloud engineer, DevOps associate

• CLF-C02 salaries are lower because it is an awareness-level certification—it doesn’t qualify you for technical jobs.
• AZ-104 salaries are significantly higher because it is a technical certification, proving you have hands-on skills to manage cloud environments.

If you only have CLF-C02, your earning potential is limited. If you only have AZ-104, you can land well-paying Azure administration jobs.

How Certification Alone Affects Earning Potential vs. Experience-Based Salaries

• Certification alone won’t guarantee a high-paying job – Employers value hands-on experience more than a certification badge. A certified cloud admin with no experience will still struggle to land senior roles.
• Certifications + experience = higher salaries – If you pair AZ-104 with real-world Azure experience, salaries go above $100,000 in many cases.
• CLF-C02 alone is not enough for high-paying jobs – It helps with cloud literacy, but does not qualify you for cloud admin or engineering roles. Higher AWS certs (like Solutions Architect Associate) are needed for better salaries.

If you’re looking for a high-paying technical job, AZ-104 has a stronger impact on salaries than CLF-C02.

Final Thoughts

If your goal is to start learning cloud technology and explore career options, CLF-C02 is a fine starting point. Need reliable exam prep materials? Visit Cert Empire for trusted AWS & Azure certification resources.

If your goal is to land a high-paying cloud job as soon as possible, AZ-104 is the better investment.

Ultimately, your choice should depend on whether you’re aiming for technical cloud jobs (AZ-104) or just want a foundational understanding of google cloud platform. (CLF-C02).

FAQs

Can CLF-C02 alone get me a job in cloud computing?
Not really. CLF-C02 helps with cloud awareness but doesn’t provide hands-on skills. It’s useful for non-technical roles but won’t qualify you for technical cloud jobs.

Is AZ-104 too advanced for someone new to cloud?
Yes, if you have no IT experience. It assumes knowledge of Azure administration and cloud infrastructure. Beginners should start with AZ-900 before attempting AZ-104.

Which certification should I take first if I want to work in cloud computing?
If you’re a beginner, CLF-C02 is easier. If you already have IT experience and want to manage cloud environments, AZ-104 is the better choice.

How long does it take to prepare for CLF-C02 vs. AZ-104?
CLF-C02 can be prepared for in 2–4 weeks with basic study. AZ-104 takes 1–3 months, depending on your prior Azure experience.

Which certification is better for freelancers and consultants?
AZ-104 is better for freelancers managing cloud services. CLF-C02 is useful for consultants advising on cloud strategies but lacks technical depth.

Last Updated on August 1, 2025 by Team CE