AWS Advanced Networking Specialty
Validates expertise in designing and operating complex AWS networking solutions, including hybrid connectivity and advanced security.
- Exam fee
- 300 USD
- Duration
- 170 minutes
- Valid for
- 3 years
- Typical salary
- $145K–$185K
If you already have several years of networking experience and want to prove advanced AWS networking skills, this specialty is worth the effort. If you lack deep networking background, consider an associate‑level path first.
What AWS Advanced Networking Specialty covers
Validates advanced networking expertise on AWS, including complex hybrid connectivity, network design, and performance optimization.
Key topics covered: AWS networking fundamentals, VPN & Direct Connect, Transit Gateway, Load balancing at scale, Route 53 & DNS, Network security.
Best suited for: Senior network engineers designing and managing complex AWS network architectures.
Common career paths: AWS Network Architect, Senior Cloud Engineer, Principal Network Engineer.
AWS Advanced Networking Specialty exam details
65 questions, multiple choice or multiple response
Exam domains
- AWS networking fundamentals
- VPN & Direct Connect
- Transit Gateway
- Load balancing at scale
- Route 53 & DNS
- Network security
At a glance
- Exam fee
- 300 USD
- Duration
- 170 minutes
- Prerequisites
- Five or more years of networking experience, at least 2 years of cloud/hybrid networking, senior‑level IT background (6+ years) and preferably prior AWS Associate or Professional certification
- Valid for
- 3 years
How to prepare for AWS Advanced Networking Specialty
| Stage | What to do | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Understand the Exam Blueprint Read the official exam guide, note the high‑level domains and required knowledge areas, and align them with your current skill set. | Week 1 |
| 2 | Deep‑Dive into Core Services Study AWS networking services (VPC, Transit Gateway, Direct Connect, VPN, Route 53, WAF, etc.) through digital courses and hands‑on labs. | Weeks 2‑3 |
| 3 | Hands‑On Architecture Practice Build and troubleshoot multi‑region, hybrid, and secure network architectures in a sandbox environment to cement practical experience. | Weeks 4‑5 |
| 4 | Exam‑Style Question Review Use AWS Skill Builder exam‑style questions and flashcards to identify gaps and reinforce key concepts. | Week 6 |
| 5 | Timed Full‑Length Practice Test Take a simulated exam under the 170‑minute limit, review explanations, and focus on any weak areas before scheduling the real test. | Week 7 |
Jobs and salary with AWS Advanced Networking Specialty
People holding this certification commonly report pay around $145K–$185K. Pay depends heavily on role, location and total experience. See the salary breakdown.
Roles this certification supports
AWS Advanced Networking Specialty questions answered
What is the AWS Advanced Networking Specialty certification?
Validates expertise in designing and operating complex AWS networking solutions, including hybrid connectivity and advanced security. It is issued by Amazon Web Services and sits in the Networking field.
Is AWS Advanced Networking Specialty hard?
AWS Advanced Networking Specialty is rated Advanced. It usually assumes several years of hands-on work, so most candidates prepare for longer.
How much does the AWS Advanced Networking Specialty exam cost?
The listed exam fee is 300 USD. Fees vary by country and change over time, so confirm the current price with Amazon Web Services before you book.
How long is the AWS Advanced Networking Specialty exam?
The exam runs for 170 minutes.
How long is AWS Advanced Networking Specialty valid?
AWS Advanced Networking Specialty is valid for 3 years, after which it must be renewed under Amazon Web Services's renewal rules.
Are there prerequisites for AWS Advanced Networking Specialty?
Five or more years of networking experience, at least 2 years of cloud/hybrid networking, senior‑level IT background (6+ years) and preferably prior AWS Associate or Professional certification
What salary can I expect with AWS Advanced Networking Specialty?
Professionals with AWS Advanced Networking Specialty commonly report pay in the $145K–$185K range. Actual pay depends on role, location and total experience.
How should I prepare for AWS Advanced Networking Specialty?
Start with the official exam outline, build hands-on practice for each domain, then finish with timed practice questions. The study plan on this page breaks this into steps.
Alternatives to AWS Advanced Networking Specialty
| Certification | Vendor | Level |
|---|---|---|
| CompTIA Network+ | CompTIA | Beginner |
| CCNA - Cisco Certified Network Associate | Cisco | Intermediate |
| CCNP Enterprise | Cisco | Advanced |
| CCNP Data Center | Cisco | Advanced |
| CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure | Cisco | Advanced |