Top 12 cloud security certifications

Unlike most others on this list, the CompTIA Cloud+ certification provides more general training on the cloud. Still, cloud security features prominently in its curriculum: Candidates will learn vulnerability management, compliance adherence, and security controls. Because CompTIA Cloud+ also provides instruction in cloud architecture, deployment, operations, troubleshooting, and DevOps fundamentals, it may be most beneficial for professionals who want a broader context when learning about cloud security. The online or onsite proctored exam consists of 90 multiple-choice and performance-based questions. Professionals must renew their certification by taking 50 continuing education units (CEUs) within three years.

To qualify for the exam, you should have five years of IT experience, including at least two to three as a systems administrator or cloud engineer.

Training fees: CompTIA Cloud+ offers three bundles, including an exam voucher: a self-paced study guide for US$475, an exam prep option for US$591, and an eLearning product for US$1059.

Exam fees: US$369 (can be financed monthly)

EC-Council Certified Cloud Security Engineer

The EC-Council offers Certified Cloud Security Engineer (C | CSE). The certification is notable for its overall approach: Rather than go vendor-neutral, C | CSE provides training on three of the most popular cloud services in AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. The certification also gives general best practices in configuration, security, pen-testing, incident response, and business continuity and disaster recovery. The target audience of this certification includes InfoSec professionals, cybersecurity engineers and analysts, and network security administrators. Candidates must earn a 70% score on the 125-multiple choice exam to earn the C | CSE certification.

To qualify for the exam, you should have two years of IT experience.

GIAC has extensive cloud security offerings, including the GIAC Cloud Security Automation (GCSA). One of its latest offerings is the GIAC Cloud Threat Detection certification (GCTD), designed for security analysts, engineers, architects, vulnerability assessors, and other professionals involved in monitoring, threat detection, and incident response. The certification covers automation, cloud management, threat intelligence, and host and network logging. Candidates must score at least 70% on the 75-question onsite or online proctored exam. Certificate holders must take 36 credits in  over four years to keep the GCTD valid.

Training fees: GIAC offers live training for GCTD in various cities worldwide, starting at US$8,020.

Exam fees: US$979