AWS vs Azure Certifications in Sri Lanka: Which is Better?
Introduction
Cloud computing is rapidly growing in Sri Lanka. Says shifting to cloud platforms like Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure. As a result, professionals with AWS vs Azure certifications are in high demand.
But which certification should you choose — AWS or Azure? Here in this blog, you can compare both certifications in terms of:
- Job market demand in Sri Lanka.
- Salary prospects.
- Training and certification costs.
- Career opportunities.
By the end you’ll have a clear answer on whether AWS or Azure certification is better for your career in Sri Lanka.
AWS vs Azure: Overview
What is AWS certification?
AWS (Amazon Web Services) is the leading cloud platform, holding around 32% of the global cloud market. AWS certifications validate skills in cloud architecture, development, security, and more.
Popular AWS certifications
- AWS certified solution architecture (Associate/Professional)
- AWS Certified Developer
- AWS Certified SysOps Administrator.
What is Azure certification?
Microsoft Azure is the second largest cloud provider, with a 23% market share. Azure certifications focus on Microsoft’s cloud services, including AI, data solutions, and hybrid cloud.
Popular Azure certifications:
- Microsoft Certified Azure Administrator. (AZ-104)
- Microsoft Certified Azure Solutions Architecture. (AZ-305)
- Microsoft Certified Azure Developer. (AZ-204)
- Microsoft Certified Azure AI Engineer Associate. (AI-102)
- Microsoft Certified Azure Security Engineer Associate. (AZ-500)
AWS vs Azure certification: Demand in Sri Lanka.
Job market trends.
- AWS has been dominant in Sri Lanka for years, with many IT firms, startups and enterprises using AWS.
- Azure is growing fast, especially in government and corporate sectors, due to Microsoft’s strong enterprise presence.
Job listing (2025 Data from LinkedIn and topjobs.lk).
- AWS related jobs: ~45% of cloud job postings
- Azure-related jobs: ~35% of cloud job postings
- Multi-cloud (AWS+ Azure) jobs: ~20%
Industry adoption
- AWS is preferred by startups, ecommerce and tech companies (e.g., WSO2, Virtusa, hSenid).
- Azure is widely used in banks, Governments and large enterprises (e.g., Commercial bank, Microsoft Lanka)
Verdict: AWS has more jobs, but Azure is catching up, especially in corporate sectors.
AWS vs Azure: Salary Comparison in Sri Lanka
Salaries for certified cloud professionals vary based on experience and role.
|
Certification
|
Entry-Level (LKR/month)
|
Mid-Level (LKR/month)
|
Senior (LKR/month)
|
|---|---|---|---|
|
AWS Certified
|
120,000 – 180,000
|
200,000 – 350,000
|
400,000 – 600,000+
|
|
Azure Certified
|
Key Insight: AWS-certified professionals earn slightly higher salaries due to higher demand.
AWS vs Azure: Certification Cost & Difficulty
1. Exam Fees
|
Certification
|
Exam Cost (USD)
|
Renewal (Every 2-3 Years)
|
|---|---|---|
|
AWS Associate Level
|
150–150–300
|
75–75–150 (Recertification)
|
|
Azure Associate Level
|
2. Difficulty Level
- AWS exams are known for scenario-based questions, requiring hands-on experience.
- Azure exams focus more on Microsoft ecosystem integration (e.g., Active Directory, Windows Server).
Verdict: Azure certifications are cheaper and slightly easier, but AWS certs have higher global recognition.
Which Certification Should You Choose?
Choose AWS Certification If:
- ✅ You want higher-paying jobs in startups & tech firms.
- ✅ You prefer a globally recognized certification.
- ✅ You enjoy hands-on labs and real-world scenarios.
Choose Azure Certification If:
- ✅ You target banks, government, or Microsoft-based companies.
- ✅ You want lower-cost exams & free renewals.
- ✅ You work with Windows Server, Active Directory, or .NET.
Best Option? Get Both!
Many companies now prefer multi-cloud experts. Starting with AWS then Azure (or vice versa) can double your job opportunities.
Final Verdict: AWS vs Azure in Sri Lanka
Conclusion:
- • AWS is better for tech startups & high-paying roles.
- • Azure is better for corporate and government jobs.
- • Learning both maximizes career opportunities.
FAQs
1. Which cloud certification is easiest?
2. Can I switch from AWS to Azure later?
3. How long does it take to get certified?
• Azure: 1-2 months (if familiar with Microsoft tools).
4. Are there free training options?
• Azure: Microsoft Learn (free modules).
Final Thoughts
Both AWS and Azure certifications are valuable in Sri Lanka. If you want higher salaries and global opportunities, go for AWS. If you prefer corporate jobs with Microsoft tools, choose Azure.
Pro Tip: Start with one, gain experience, and then learn the other to become a multi-cloud expert!
