This blog post shares 10 specific topics that candidates should understand before taking the AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty exam. The reader will learn what to expect during the exam and how to prepare. The post is geared toward IT professionals who are pursuing the certification and looking for advice on their preparation to pass the exam.The experience of studying for the exam strengthened my understanding considerably. As part of my preparation for the exam, I built networks within my AWS account and tested scenarios using services such as AWS Global Accelerator. I find getting hands on with technology is a great way to solidify my knowledge. Since passing the exam and achieving the certification, I’ve found that I’m better prepared to help customers consider network-design options. I would encourage any architect or engineer with an interest in this area to pursue this certification.During the last few years working as a solutions architect at Amazon Web Services (AWS), I’ve had the opportunity to work with numerous customers building resilient network connectivity between their data centers and AWS regions. As my knowledge of networking in AWS increased, I decided to study for the AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty exam. The exam validates networking expertise and verifies the learner’s ability to implement AWS network services to meet performance, cost, and security requirements.AWS Training and Certification offers a mix of free, on-demand digital courses, virtual/in-person instructor-led classroom training, virtual webinars, and an exam-readiness course to help you build your knowledge. I encourage you to utilize the training as well as my suggestions for 10 study areas to review as you prepare for the AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty exam.The exam covers numerous networking topics in depth. Foundational knowledge of networking topics, such as the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model, IPv4 addressing and Classless Inter-Domain Routing (CIDR), IP-routing logic, and subnetting are required. Based on my experience, I would recommend completing either the AWS Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate or AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate exam before taking this specialty exam.