Exam Comparison
AWS SCS vs GCP PCA
Comparing the AWS Certified Security — Specialty (SCS-C02) and the Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect (PCA). Both fall under IT Certifications. Both are covered by the Cloud Cert Exam Prep: AWS, Azure & GCP app.
AWS SCS vs GCP PCA: At a Glance
| Detail | AWS SCS | GCP PCA |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | AWS Certified Security — Specialty (SCS-C02) | Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect (PCA) |
| Governing Body | AWS | Google Cloud |
| Number of Questions | 65 | 60 |
| Time Limit | 170 minutes | 120 minutes |
| Passing Score | 750/1000 (scaled) | 70% |
| Exam Fee | $300 USD | $200 USD |
| Category | IT Certifications | IT Certifications |
| C3RT App | Cloud Cert Exam Prep: AWS, Azure & GCP Soon | Cloud Cert Exam Prep: AWS, Azure & GCP Soon |
Content Areas Compared
AWS SCS Domains
- Threat Detection and Incident Response(14%)
- Security Logging and Monitoring(18%)
- Infrastructure Security(20%)
- Identity and Access Management(16%)
- Data Protection(18%)
- Management and Security Governance(14%)
GCP PCA Domains
- Designing and Planning a Cloud Solution Architecture(24%)
- Managing and Provisioning a Solution Infrastructure(15%)
- Designing for Security and Compliance(18%)
- Analyzing and Optimizing Technical and Business Processes(18%)
- Managing Implementation(11%)
- Ensuring Solution and Operations Reliability(14%)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between AWS SCS and GCP PCA?
The AWS SCS (AWS Certified Security — Specialty (SCS-C02)) is administered by AWS and consists of 65 questions. The GCP PCA (Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect (PCA)) is administered by Google Cloud and consists of 60 questions. Both are IT Certifications credentials.
Can I take both the AWS SCS and the GCP PCA?
Yes, the AWS SCS and GCP PCA are separate credentials with separate eligibility requirements. Each is awarded by a different governing body (AWS and Google Cloud respectively). Check the official requirements for each before registering.
Which should I take first, AWS SCS or GCP PCA?
The right sequence depends on your career goals and current credentials. The AWS SCS is offered by AWS with a passing score of 750/1000 (scaled), while the GCP PCA is offered by Google Cloud with a passing score of 70%. Review the eligibility requirements for each with the respective governing bodies before deciding.
Does C3RT cover both the AWS SCS and the GCP PCA?
C3RT is building apps for both the AWS SCS and the GCP PCA. Both will be available on iOS and Mac.
The AWS Certified Security — Specialty (SCS-C02) (AWS SCS) is administered by AWS. The Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect (PCA) (GCP PCA) is administered by Google Cloud. C3RT is not affiliated with either organisation. Certification names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.