Network-to-network & hybrid connectivity
AWS Cloud WAN vs Azure Virtual WAN / Azure Virtual Network Manager
AWS Cloud WAN maps most closely to Azure Virtual WAN, with Virtual Network Manager for policy-based grouping and security rules.
Side-by-side comparison
| Aspect | Amazon Web Services | Microsoft Azure |
|---|---|---|
| Service | AWS Cloud WAN | Azure Virtual WAN Azure Virtual Network Manager |
| Lifecycle | Generally available | Generally available Generally available |
| What it is | Managed global network built from a central, policy-defined core network, with segments and core network edges in the Regions you choose. | Microsoft-managed hubs (full mesh in the Standard type) that connect virtual networks, branches (VPN and SD-WAN), remote users, and ExpressRoute, with optional secured hubs using Azure Firewall. Centrally groups virtual networks across subscriptions and regions to deploy connectivity (mesh or hub-and-spoke), security admin rules, routing, and IP address management (IPAM) pools. |
| Pricing model | Per core network edge-hour, per attachment-hour, and per GB processed. | Virtual WAN hub, connection, and data processing charges. Virtual Network Manager is billed separately. |
| Docs | AWS Cloud WAN docs | Azure Virtual WAN docs Azure Virtual Network Manager docs |
| Pricing page | AWS Cloud WAN pricing | Azure Virtual WAN pricing Azure Virtual Network Manager pricing |
| Exams | ANS-C01 Retiring SAP-C02 Retiring | AZ-700 |
Key differences
- Policy model. Cloud WAN is driven by a single JSON core network policy that defines Regions, segments, and attachment rules. Virtual WAN uses hubs, route tables, and routing intent; Virtual Network Manager adds network groups and admin rules.
- Segmentation. Cloud WAN segments are global routing domains. Virtual WAN segments with custom route tables and labels in each hub.
Pricing summary
Pricing models only. No prices are quoted because they change by region and over time.
- AWS
- Per core network edge-hour, per attachment-hour, and per GB processed. AWS Cloud WAN pricing →
- Azure
- Virtual WAN hub, connection, and data processing charges. Virtual Network Manager is billed separately. Azure Virtual WAN pricing → Azure Virtual Network Manager pricing →
Certification exam mapping
| Exam | Provider | Level | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty ANS-C01 | AWS | Specialty | retiring The exam is being retired. The last day to take it is Dec 31, 2026. Existing certifications stay active for their three-year period. |
| AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional SAP-C02 | AWS | Professional | retiring Being updated to SAP-C03. Registration for SAP-C03 opens Oct 27, 2026. Last day to take SAP-C02 is Nov 16, 2026. |
| Microsoft Certified – Azure Network Engineer Associate AZ-700 | Azure | Associate | current |
Relevance is based on each exam's published scope, not a line-by-line objective match. Check the official study guide.
FAQ
What is the Azure equivalent of AWS Cloud WAN?
AWS Cloud WAN maps most closely to Azure Virtual WAN, with Virtual Network Manager for policy-based grouping and security rules.
How does pricing compare between AWS Cloud WAN and Azure Virtual WAN and Azure Virtual Network Manager?
AWS: Per core network edge-hour, per attachment-hour, and per GB processed. Azure: Virtual WAN hub, connection, and data processing charges. Virtual Network Manager is billed separately. Check the official pricing pages for current rates.
Which certification exams cover this topic?
AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty (ANS-C01) [retiring]; AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional (SAP-C02) [retiring]; Microsoft Certified – Azure Network Engineer Associate (AZ-700).