Do you dream of mastering server sorcery and becoming a Linux wizard? Okay, a bit dramatic – but pursuing Linux certifications can seriously take your career as a sysadmin to the next level.
With more organizations adopting open-source solutions and embracing cloud-based infrastructure, Linux talent is in hot demand. The Linux Foundation projects the job market for Linux pros will continue expanding at 14% annually over the next five years.
So whether you’re hoping to become a Linux master or advance as one, certifications should be part of your plan.
This guide will walk you through the industry’s most valuable Linux credentials, why they matter, and tips for exam success. Time to make some sysadmin magic happen!
Why Should You Get Linux Certified?
Let’s look at some key reasons to enroll in a Linux certification program:
Increased Employability
- 91% of hiring managers indicate Linux certifications are valuable during recruitment, considering certified pros to be more competent. Certs make you stand out.
Higher Salaries
- Multiple studies reveal IT professionals with Linux certs earn between 8-11% higher salaries than uncertified peers in similar roles.
Career Progression
- Certifications qualify you for more advanced Linux or cloud engineering positions down the road. They pave the path to take on greater responsibilities and leadership roles.
High Market Demand
- As mentioned, Linux growth is exploding. A Cloud Foundry survey found 91% of global IT leaders expected Linux hiring to increase over the next five years.
Earning credible Linux certifications remains valuable for breaking into the industry and advancing as a sysadmin. The personalized guidance and recognition shows employers you’re deeply committed to the craft.
Now let’s explore the industry’s most popular Linux credentials…
Overview of Key Linux Certifications
Here’s a comparison overview of market-leading certifications for Linux and cloud computing:
| Certification | Difficulty | Exam Format | Admin Experience Required | Renewal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LFCS | Mid | Performance & Multiple-Choice | 1 year recommended | Every 2 years |
| Red Hat RHCSA | Mid+ | Hands-on lab exam | None required | Every 3 years |
| CompTIA Linux+ | Mid | Multiple choice & performance-based | Minimum 1 year | Never expires |
| LPIC-1 | Mid | Multiple choice | None required | Every 5 years |
Below we’ll look at the core value and particulars of each certification so you can determine which aligns best with your Linux skill level and career plans.
Red Hat Certified SysAdmin (RHCSA)
Arguably the most prestigious credential, earning your RHCSA requires passing one tough hands-on exam proving you can meet system configuration and administration objectives on RHEL environments.
While no training course or work experience is mandated, most successful candidates have spent substantial time administering RHEL beforehand. The exam is performance-based, requiring demonstrating competency completing sysadmin tasks live instead of just answering multiple choice questions.
Key Details:
- 150 minute exam with complex hands-on labs
- $400 exam fee
- Recommended 6 months+ RHEL admin experience
- Renewal every 3 years through certification exam
Why It Matters
- Considered the gold standard for Linux certs globally
- Validates technical competence highly valued by recruiters
- Starting point for earning higher Red Hat certifications
Overall, while the RHCSA requires serious commitment, it offers immense value for Linux pros at any career stage.
CompTIA Linux+
Positioned more as vendor-neutral introductory certification, the CompTIA Linux+ exam focuses less on admin specifics of one Linux distribution.
Rather, it’s designed to validate foundational skills that apply broadly across Linux environments. The exam tests across topics like system architecture, CLI usage, security practices, scripting/automation basics, networking etc.
While not as intense as Red Hat’s performance exams, CompTIA Linux+ still offers tremendous value:
Key Details:
- 90 minute exam length
- $239 exam fee
- Recommended 1-2 years admin experience
- Never expires
Why It Matters:
- Proves generalized Linux competencies
- Stackable with other CompTIA certifications
- Can be used to work towards RHCSA later
- Ideal for junior admins getting started
Think of Linux+ as demonstrating you grasp the essentials before potentially gearing up for a vendor-specific credential down the road like the renowned RHCSA.
Linux Foundation Certified SysAdmin (LFCS)
If you‘re relatively new to Linux administration or looking to formally validate your mid-level skills, the LFCS is an ideal fit.
The completely performance-based LFCS exam contains both multiple choice questions and hands-on labs. Key knowledge areas tested include filesystems management, networking, security, package managers, logging, storage architectures and more.
Key Details:
- 120 minute exam
- $300 fee
- Intermediate difficulty level
- Renewal every 2 years
Why It Matters
- Tests proficiency on RHEL and Ubuntu
- Provides flexibility to demonstrate skills hands-on
- Respected precursor to higher LFCE certification
For those not quite ready to take on the RHCSA or desiring more generalized qualification, the intermediate LFCS hits a nice sweet spot.
Linux Professional Institute – LPIC Level 1
Obtaining LPIC-1 certification involves passing two exams:
- LPIC-1 101 focuses more on Linux architecture knowledge, CLI skills, security practices etc.
- LPIC-1 102 covers administrative tasks like managing disks, configuring networks, writing scripts, monitoring systems etc.
Considered a junior-level credential validating foundational Linux and open-source skills, LPIC-1 gets you started down the Linux certification path.
Key Details:
- Two 90 minute exams at $165 each
- No mandated work experience
- Renewal through LPI portal every 5 years
Why It Matters:
- Proves essential Linux admin competencies
- Stackable with LPIC-2 and LPIC-3 certs
- Cheaper path to getting formally certified
LPIC-1 remains a popular stepping stone towards more advanced or specialized Linux certifications.
Clearly there’s an ideal Linux certification catered towards all experience levels. But which one(s) make sense for your skills and career aspirations?
That depends…are you a Linux apprentice just getting started? Then LPIC-1 or CompTIA Linux+ are sensible choices. Have a few years as a Linux admin under your belt? Consider intermediate LFCS or RHCSA. We‘ll explore tailored certification roadmaps next.
Mapping Your Linux Certification Path
Rather than randomly select credentials, it’s best to strategically chart your Linux certification path over the next few years.
Let’s look at sample certification timelines based on where you’re at now:
Getting Started (0-2 years experience)
- Year 1: Obtain entry-level LPIC-1 to validate core competencies
- Year 2: Consider adding Linux+ for supplementary general skills
- Year 3: Prepare to attempt mid-level LFCS if you meet experience prereqs
Mid-Career SysAdmin (3-6 years experience)
- Year 1: Study towards RHCSA to prove RHEL mastery
- Year 2: Complement with LFCS for multi-distro capabilities
- Year 3: Upgrade to advanced RHCE for salary boost
Senior Linux Pro (7+ years experience)
- Year 1: Pass LFCS if lacking, then seize elite RHCE
- Year 2: Explore specializations like OpenShift or Kubernetes
- Year 3: Give back through open-source contributions
Adjust your timeline based on the opportunities before you, but having measurable milestones set keeps you focused and motivated.
Just don’t bite off more than you can chew! It’s better to take certifications sequentially rather than simultaneously overlapping difficult prep.
Now let’s ensure you pass those exams confidently…
Setting Yourself Up for Linux Certification Exam Success
Preparing adequately for your certification exam is critical. Here are some best practices to set you up for success:
Hands-On Practice
- Start administering Linux servers and resources in home or cloud labs
- Master executing essential admin tasks through terminal
- Automate configurations using BASH scripting
Leverage Video Courses
- Guide your studies with affordable Udemy or LinkedIn Learning video content
- Supplement with Linux training eBooks when you need material offline
Take Practice Exams
- Reinforce knowledge with practice tests before your real exam
- Identify weaker areas needing further review
Schedule Smartly
- Give yourself 6-8 weeks minimum to learn objectives
- Take practice exams 3-4 weeks out to gauge readiness
- Adjust your timeline if needed based on score results
Putting in consistent preparation utilizing helpful sysadmin resources will ensure you pass with flying colors!
Okay, you’ve earned your certifications…but the learning never stops for ambitious Linux admins. Let‘s discuss maintaining your credentials.
Keeping Your Linux Certs Current
To remain current, most Linux certifications require renewal every 2-3 years through recertification exams or continuing education credits.
For instance, Red Hat mandates RHCSA holders re-certify every 3 years via exam. CompTIA Linux+ never expires but still benefits from brushing up on new skills.
Why is staying certified important? Here are a few reasons:
1. New Linux Versions Launch – As vendors release updated distributions, refreshing your training ensures you manage modern environments optimally.
2. Desirability for Promotions – Management is much more likely to offer promotions to team members flaunting up-to-date certifications.
3. Annual Salary Bumps – One study showed sysadmins recertifying annually earned nearly $6000 more than peers without current credentials.
4. You Remain Relevant – Outdated skills get you left behind. Continual learning is critical as infrastructure evolves.
So be sure to renew your Linux certifications regularly or pursue new ones to demonstrate relevance.
Alright, you should now have clarity on available Linux credentials, constructing your certification game plan, prep tips, and the importance of keeping qualifications updated.
Time will tell if you can become a bonafide Linux wizard…but these certs will ensure you’re properly respected and rewarded for your growing sysadmin sorcery.
Let the magical ascendance begin!
