Linux is the most widely used operating system in the world. Linux OS is used in everything, from cars to supercomputers. It offers a wide and varied field for IT careers. Despite its widespread use, there has not been a widely recognized certification to validate basic Linux administration skills — until now.
Red Hat certifications, such as the Red Hat Certified System Administration, were used by hiring managers to indicate their Linux knowledge. This is a good thing, but it is more specific than what Linux+ is intended to be.
Continue reading to learn everything you need about CompTIA’s Linux+ certification. What it entails, and why you should consider earning it. CompTIA’s training makes it easier than ever to learn Linux administration skills.
What is Linux+?
CompTIA’s Linux+ certification “validates the competencies needed of an early career IT specialist supporting Linux systems.” This is because the OS is so widely used, which presents a number of challenges for non-technical hiring professionals. It is possible to be very familiar in Linux’s structure but not know how to use it. This makes it difficult for HR managers to understand.
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Start trainingIf someone is able to answer basic interview questions about Linux, the hiring manager only knows that the applicant is more knowledgeable than she/he is. However, this is not very helpful. Linux+ will undoubtedly be a favorite tool for non-tech-savvy HR managers looking to hire for open-source admin positions.
What is the Linux+ Test?
Linux+ is a test of fundamental system administration tasks within a Linux operating environment. A Linux+ certification certifies that you are capable of successfully operating, managing, and troubleshooting issues in a Linux environment. This certification focuses on five areas:
Automation & Scripting
Hardware & System Configuration
Linux Troubleshooting & Diagnostics
Security
System Operation and Maintenance
A single exam is required to earn a Linux+ certification. This change was effective April 2019. The previous version required you to pass two exams, but also earned an LPI certification. The current version eliminates all LPI affiliation. These are the major changes in the new Linux+ exam.
You can expect a mix of multiple-choice questions (with one correct answer), multiple-choice questions (with multiple correct responses), and fill-in the blank. This is intentional. A Linux+ cert validates your Linux knowledge and allows you to perform basic sysadmin tasks.
The Linux+ exam will have up to 90 questions. Since the test lasts only 90 minutes, you’ll need your best. To pass the Linux+ exam, you must earn at least 720 points out of a possible 900 points. This is approximately an 80 percent score.
What is the cost of the Linux+ Exam?
The simple answer is $329. That’s the price you’ll pay to get a single coupon. CompTIA offers several bundles that include more training opportunities and an extra voucher in the event you don’t succeed the first time.
What experience do you need for Linux+?
CompTIA recommends that you have at least 12 months of Linux admin experience, and have earned both the CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA A+ certifications. These are suggestions, not requirements. You can take the exam without any preparation if you are a prodigy. However, this is not what we recommend.
While CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA A+ certifications are helpful, they are not necessary for Linux+. It is important to recognize the first word of each certification. This demonstrates CompTIA’s business savvy and is a must-have for any IT professional. IT professionals who are going to earn one your certifications must be certified.
