As cloud technologies continue to evolve, IT certifications must also adapt to keep up with real-world demands. That is exactly why CompTIA updated its Cloud+ certification, replacing the older CV0-003 version with the newer CV0-004 exam.
Both versions are designed for professionals working in cloud-based infrastructure services, but there are important changes in focus, content, and skill expectations. If you are planning to earn a cloud certification—or already studying for one—it is important to understand how these two exam versions differ.
In this blog, we will break down the key differences between CV0-003 and CV0-004, including updates to domains, exam content, and what it means for your career path. Whether you are starting fresh or switching from the older version, this guide will help you decide which path is right for you.
What is CompTIA Cloud+?
CompTIA Cloud+ is a vendor-neutral, performance-based certification that validates the skills needed to deploy, maintain, secure, and troubleshoot cloud environments. Unlike cloud-specific certifications (like AWS or Azure), Cloud+ focuses on the underlying principles of cloud infrastructure and operations that apply across platforms.
It is designed for IT professionals who work with hybrid and multi-cloud systems, supporting the transition of on-premises systems to cloud-based services while maintaining performance, security, and availability.
Who is it for?
- Cloud Engineers and Architects
- System Administrators
- Network Engineers supporting cloud deployments
- DevOps professionals
- IT Ops professionals moving into cloud-focused roles
Why It Matters
- Recognized across industries as a solid foundation for multi-cloud environments
- Compliant with DoD 8570.01-M requirements (for U.S. government cybersecurity roles)
- Covers real-world scenarios rather than focusing on a single vendor’s tools
- Bridges knowledge between on-prem IT and cloud operations, making it ideal for hybrid IT teams
Why Was the Exam Updated?
Technology in the cloud space changes rapidly. What was considered advanced two years ago is now standard practice. To stay relevant and job-focused, CompTIA regularly updates its certifications—ensuring that what you learn matches what employers are looking for today.
The shift from CV0-003 to CV0-004 reflects this evolution. The update brings the exam in line with current industry needs and technologies, including:
Key Reasons for the Update:
1. Growth of Hybrid and Multi-Cloud Environments
Companies are no longer relying on just one cloud provider. The new exam includes more focus on managing systems across platforms like AWS, Azure, and private cloud setups.
2. Increased Focus on Automation and DevOps
Modern cloud roles demand knowledge of tools like Infrastructure as Code (IaC), CI/CD pipelines, and automation scripts. CV0-004 includes more coverage of these tools and practices.
3. Heightened Security Demands
With growing concerns around data privacy, compliance, and cloud security threats, the new version digs deeper into cloud-specific security controls and monitoring.
4. Real-World Job Tasks
CompTIA aligned CV0-004 more closely with the actual responsibilities of cloud professionals, emphasizing performance-based and scenario-driven learning.
The update is not just cosmetic—it is about aligning the certification with how cloud is used today. The CV0-004 version tests for more modern, practical, and automated approaches, helping candidates build skills that are actually used on the job.
CV0-003 vs CV0-004: Side-by-Side Comparison
To clearly understand what has changed, let us look at a direct comparison of the old and new versions of the CompTIA Cloud+ exam. This includes differences in domain structure, skill coverage, and focus areas.
Comparison Table
| Feature | CV0-003 (Old) | CV0-004 (New) |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2021 | 2023 |
| Number of Domains | 5 | 4 |
| Main Focus | Cloud infrastructure & operations | Cloud automation, DevSecOps, security |
| DevOps Emphasis | Low | Stronger emphasis on automation tools |
| Security Coverage | General cloud security | Deep security integration (IAM, logging, compliance) |
| Cloud Models | Basic cloud models | Hybrid, multi-cloud environments |
| Tools and Technologies | Vendor-neutral overview | Includes modern tools like IaC, containers, CI/CD |
| Performance-Based Questions | Yes | Yes (more real-world scenarios) |
Summary of Key Differences
- Fewer domains, but deeper focus: CV0-004 condenses the exam into four broader domains while expanding practical and security-focused content.
- Modern job alignment: The new version matches what cloud engineers and DevOps professionals actually do—making it more useful on the job.
- Updated technologies: CV0-004 includes newer tools and practices like infrastructure as code, containerization, and zero-trust security models.
What Changed?
- “Security” became “Cloud Security”: This reflects a broader and more focused approach to cloud-specific security challenges, such as identity management, data protection, and compliance frameworks.
- “Troubleshooting” was merged: Troubleshooting is now embedded throughout the new domains—especially within Operations and Deployment—making it more practical and scenario-driven.
- Updated tools and practices: CV0-004 includes cloud-native concepts like infrastructure as code (IaC), CI/CD pipelines, and container orchestration, which were not central in CV0-003.
What’s New in CV0-004?
The CV0-004 version of the CompTIA Cloud+ exam introduces several important updates to reflect the evolving nature of cloud computing. The goal is to ensure that certified professionals are equipped to work in modern, hybrid, automated, and security-focused cloud environments.
Key Additions in CV0-004:
1. Stronger Focus on Cloud Security
- Expanded coverage of identity and access management (IAM)
- Emphasis on data classification, encryption, and compliance frameworks (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA)
- Greater attention to zero-trust models, logging, and incident response in cloud
2. Introduction of Automation and Infrastructure as Code (IaC)
- Candidates are now expected to understand tools and practices like:
- Terraform, Ansible, CloudFormation
- Benefits of automation in provisioning and scaling
- Scripting for deployment and configuration management
3. Cloud-Native and DevOps Tools
- Knowledge of containers, microservices, and orchestration tools (e.g., Kubernetes)
- Use of CI/CD pipelines for continuous integration and delivery
- Understanding of deployment automation and version control practices
4. Updated Scenarios and Performance-Based Testing
- The exam now includes real-world case studies and simulations
- Candidates must demonstrate how to troubleshoot, secure, and deploy systems—not just recognize the right answer
CV0-004 modernizes the Cloud+ certification by embedding job-relevant skills, emphasizing security-first thinking, and incorporating automation workflows. If you are preparing for cloud roles in 2025 and beyond, these updates make the new version more aligned with current expectations in the industry.
Exam Format: What Has Stayed the Same?
Although the content and domain focus have changed significantly in CV0-004, the structure of the exam remains largely similar to CV0-003. This ensures continuity in how candidates prepare, while allowing the skills tested to evolve.
Format Overview
| Feature | CV0-003 | CV0-004 |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Code | CV0-003 | CV0-004 |
| Number of Questions | Up to 90 | Up to 90 |
| Types of Questions | Multiple-choice & Performance-based | Multiple-choice & Performance-based |
| Duration | 90 minutes | 90 minutes |
| Passing Score | 750 (on a scale of 100–900) | 750 (on a scale of 100–900) |
| Delivery Method | Online or Testing Center | Online or Testing Center |
| Certification Validity | 3 years | 3 years |
Key Similarities
- Performance-based questions (PBQs) remain central. These test your ability to apply knowledge in realistic cloud scenarios, such as deploying resources or troubleshooting connectivity issues.
- Time management is important in both versions, as PBQs can take longer than multiple-choice items.
- Both versions require a strong foundation in cloud concepts, services, and operations, but CV0-004 expects deeper contextual understanding.
If you have prepared for CV0-003 or taken similar CompTIA exams before, the format will feel familiar. The main difference lies in what you need to know—not how the test is presented. CV0-004 emphasizes modern tools and workflows, but you will still face a combination of scenario-driven tasks and knowledge checks.
How to Prepare for the CV0-004 Exam
Preparing for CV0-004 requires more than just reading textbooks—you need to combine study materials with hands-on practice, especially in areas like automation, deployment, and security in multi-cloud environments.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
1. Start with the Official Exam Objectives
Download the CV0-004 objectives from CompTIA’s website. This will give you a domain-by-domain breakdown of everything you are expected to know.
2. Use Updated Study Resources
Look for materials specifically designed for CV0-004. Recommended options include:
- CompTIA CertMaster Learn (official course)
- Skilr Practice Exams
- CompTIA Cloud+ Study Guide (CV0-004 Edition)
3. Build a Cloud Practice Environment
Hands-on labs will help you understand real-world scenarios. Use:
- AWS Free Tier or Azure Free Account
- Google Cloud free credits
- Tools like Terraform, Git, and Docker for automation practice
4. Join Online Communities and Study Groups
Engage with learners and professionals through:
- Reddit (r/CompTIA or r/cloud)
- Discord Cloud+ study channels
- LinkedIn or TechExams.net forums
5. Take Practice Exams and PBQs
Regularly test your knowledge with mock exams to simulate the actual test. Focus on:
- Time management
- Troubleshooting scenarios
- Interpreting logs or configuration files
Tips to Succeed
- Focus on why something works—not just what it does
- Practice writing and reading scripts or templates (e.g., YAML for cloud configs)
- Spend more time on security concepts and automation workflows—they are heavily tested
- Do not ignore performance-based questions—they test real understanding
Career Impact and Salary Expectations
Earning the CompTIA Cloud+ (CV0-004) certification can open the door to several in-demand IT roles focused on cloud infrastructure, hybrid environments, and secure deployment. It proves you have practical skills to manage and troubleshoot cloud systems—skills that employers are actively looking for.
Popular Job Roles After Cloud+
- Cloud Support Specialist
- Cloud Systems Administrator
- DevOps Technician
- Cloud Security Administrator
- Infrastructure Engineer
- Site Reliability Engineer (SRE)
- Technical Support Engineer (Cloud Platforms)
Salary Expectations
| Role | India (₹/year) | United States ($/year) |
|---|---|---|
| Cloud Support Specialist | ₹6–10 LPA | $65,000–85,000 |
| Cloud Systems Administrator | ₹8–15 LPA | $75,000–95,000 |
| DevOps or Infrastructure Engineer | ₹10–20 LPA | $90,000–120,000 |
| Cloud Security Administrator | ₹12–22 LPA | $100,000–130,000 |
Why Employers Value It
- It is vendor-neutral, so it signals adaptability across cloud platforms.
- It shows you understand deployment, security, and troubleshooting—key parts of real cloud jobs.
- Recognized by government and defense employers (DoD 8570 compliant).
- Acts as a stepping stone to vendor-specific certs like AWS Certified SysOps, Azure Administrator, or Google Cloud Engineer.
Whether you are entering the cloud job market or looking to move from a support or system admin role into cloud operations, CV0-004 gives you real-world, employer-relevant credibility. It is a strong addition to your resume and can help you qualify for better-paying roles in today’s hybrid IT environments.
Final Verdict: CV0-003 vs CV0-004 – Which One Truly Matters?
The transition from CompTIA Cloud+ CV0-003 to CV0-004 reflects a deeper shift in how cloud infrastructure is managed in today’s workplaces. With automation, security, hybrid environments, and cloud-native tools now at the core of IT operations, CV0-004 is designed to meet those realities head-on.
