DevOps is one of the hottest trends in tech right now.
If you’re eyeing a career boost, getting certified can really help you stand out from the crowd.
DevOps certifications are like badges of honor for your skills in the eyes of employers. They demonstrate your knowledge of essential tools and practices, and let’s face it, they can even help you pad your paycheck.
Ready to dive into some popular DevOps certification courses? Let’s roll!
1) AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional
Want to ramp up your cloud career? The AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional could be just what you need.
This certification is proof that you know your way around AWS platforms and DevOps practices.
To earn this badge, you’ll have to pass a pretty comprehensive exam.
It’s packed with a mix of multiple-choice and multiple-response questions.
I won’t sugarcoat it— it’s not a breeze, but it’s sure worth the effort.
This certification shows you can manage AWS applications and infrastructure like a champ.
You’ll demonstrate to employers that you’re skilled at testing, deploying, and managing systems on the AWS platform.
The exam dives into continuous delivery and process automation and also touches on vital areas like security and governance models.
Thinking of taking the plunge? You’ll find study materials and practice exams available online.
AWS even offers some free training resources to help you gear up.
Keep in mind that tech evolves fast.
AWS updates this certification regularly, so you’ll always be learning the latest and greatest cloud tech.
2) Docker Certified Associate (DCA)
Want to show off your Docker skills? The Docker Certified Associate (DCA) exam is a fantastic way to prove you’re a Docker whiz.
This certification reveals your good grasp of Docker’s container technology.
The DCA covers everything from Docker essentials to managing images and setting up networks.
You’ll also delve into security practices and how to ensure containers work well together.
Preparing for the exam is quite approachable.
You can find online courses that guide you through all the necessary topics.
Many of these courses even include practice tests to build your confidence.
The best part? The DCA is hands-on! You’ll work on real projects rather than just memorizing facts.
That makes learning engaging and helps the information stick.
The exam is online and lasts about 90 minutes.
You’ll answer multiple-choice questions and tackle some practical problems, and don’t sweat it—you can take breaks if you need to!
3) Google Professional DevOps Engineer
Want to sharpen your DevOps skills using Google Cloud? The Google Professional DevOps Engineer certification might be your ticket.
This certification shows you know your way around Google Cloud and DevOps methods.
You’ll learn how to build pipelines, deploy services, and manage incidents.
Taking the exam costs $200 and lasts two hours, with around 50-60 questions that mix multiple choice and select options.
You can take the exam from home or at a testing center.
To prep, check out the SRE and DevOps Professional Certificate on Coursera—it covers key exam topics.
And, make sure to try a practice exam before the real deal.
It’ll help you understand the question style and pinpoint topics you might want to study better.
This certification can make you shine in front of employers, proving your skills with Google Cloud and DevOps best practices.
4) Microsoft Certified: DevOps Engineer Expert
Ready to take your DevOps skills to the next level? The Microsoft Certified: DevOps Engineer Expert certification might just be what you’re looking for.
This cert indicates you can work with teams, processes, and tech to deliver value effectively.
If you’re already familiar with Microsoft Azure, you’ll find it’s a suitable next step.
To get certified, you’ll need to pass the AZ-400 exam, which tests your ability to design and implement Microsoft DevOps solutions.
But here’s a catch—you need to have either the Azure Administrator Associate or Azure Developer Associate certification before stepping into this one.
If you’re not quite ready for expert-level yet, no worries! Microsoft offers learning paths to help you gear up for the exam.
This certification makes you stand out to employers hunting for skilled DevOps professionals.
It shows you can manage intricate cloud environments and enhance development processes.
Benefits of DevOps Certifications
Getting a DevOps certification can seriously elevate your career and skill set.
Let’s break down a few ways these certifications can help you grow professionally.
Enhanced Career Opportunities
DevOps certifications can really open up new job opportunities.
Having a respected DevOps certification on your resume makes you appealing to employers.
Many companies are now on the lookout for these credentials when hiring.
With a DevOps cert, you might be eligible for higher-paying gigs.
Positions like DevOps Engineer or Site Reliability Engineer often come with better salaries and more responsibilities.
Certifications also signal your commitment to learning.
Employers love to see that you keep your skills fresh, and this can give you an edge when it’s time to apply for jobs or ask for that promotion.
Getting certifications shows you’re dedicated to professional growth and adaptable in a competitive job market.
For instance, enrolling in Salesforce certification courses can help you acquire in-demand skills that employers really value.
These credentials can lift your confidence and help you step into new career avenues.
Skill Development and Improvement
DevOps certifications help you uncover new tools and methods.
You’ll gain skills in areas like cloud platforms, automation, and continuous integration.
Taking a certification course gives you hands-on experience with real-world scenarios.
That real-time practice is incredibly valuable, setting you up to tackle actual DevOps challenges at work.
Many DevOps courses highlight the latest industry trends.
You’ll learn about the most cutting-edge tools and best practices, keeping your skills sharp in this fast-paced tech world.
Certifications also help fill gaps in your knowledge.
You might uncover new strategies to enhance your current work processes, making you an even more valuable team member.
Choosing the Right DevOps Certification
Picking the right DevOps certification can really give your career a boost.
It’s essential to consider a few key factors before making your choice.
Industry Recognition
When selecting a DevOps certification, go for one that carries weight with employers.
The AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional is truly held in high regard in the industry.
It shows you can handle AWS apps and cloud platforms.
Another contender is the Azure DevOps Engineer Expert certification.
This proves you’re skilled at managing security, compliance, and source control in Azure.
Look for certifications that align with DevOps principles like automation and continuous delivery—these are the skills companies are really after.
Cost and Duration
The cost and time commitment for DevOps certifications can vary significantly.
Some certs, like the AWS DevOps Engineer, might set you back around $300 for the exam, while others could be pricier, especially when you factor in study materials or courses.
Consider how long you’ll need to prepare.
Some folks may study for weeks, while others might take months.
For example, the Azure DevOps Engineer Expert exam costs $165, but you could end up spending more on training.
Keep an eye out for bundle deals that include both training and the exam—they can save you some bucks in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
DevOps certifications can truly give your career and skills a lift.
Let’s tackle some common questions about these certifications and how they can shape your future in tech.
What are some recommended DevOps certifications for someone just starting out?
If you’re new to the field, the Docker Certified Associate (DCA) is a fantastic starting point.
It covers container basics, which are super important in DevOps.
You might want to look into entry-level cloud certifications from AWS or Azure as well—they’re great for getting your feet wet.
Which certifications should I consider for a career in DevOps engineering?
If you’re aiming for a role in DevOps engineering, the AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional is a top-notch choice.
It indicates you’ve got the skills to navigate AWS and DevOps practices.
The Google Professional DevOps Engineer cert is also a solid pick, especially if you’re keen on Google Cloud.
Can I find any worthwhile free DevOps certifications?
Free certs in the DevOps space can be hard to find.
Most legitimate ones come with a price tag.
That said, you can uncover free courses and learning materials to prep for paid certs.
Keep an eye out for trial periods on learning platforms or free introductory courses to help you get started.
Are there any DevOps certifications that are particularly well-regarded in the industry?
The AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional is definitely a certification that’s respected across the board.
Since many companies use AWS, this cert holds significant weight.
The Microsoft Certified: DevOps Engineer Expert is also highly regarded, especially in environments that lean heavily on Microsoft products.
How does obtaining a DevOps certification impact my job prospects?
Landing a DevOps cert can really open doors for you.
It shows employers that you’re serious about your skills and have put in the effort to make it happen.
Many job postings specify certain certifications as requirements or preferred qualifications—having one can give you an edge over the competition.
What are the differences between AWS and Azure certifications for DevOps?
AWS and Azure certifications zero in on their respective cloud platforms.
AWS certs like the DevOps Engineer – Professional dig into AWS services and tools, while Azure certs like the DevOps Engineer Expert focus on Microsoft’s cloud ecosystem.
Choose based on which cloud provider you see more in your job market or which one piques your interest more.