Should You Get Your Linux+ Certification?
Linux is a well-liked operating system that has widespread adoption. Linux is a widely used open-source OS that runs on everything from smartphones to supercomputers.
Despite Linux’s popularity, there is currently no universally accepted certification that can prove even the most essential skills in Linux system administration.
Historically, employers have accepted Red Hat certifications like the Red Hat Certified System Administrator in place of actual Linux knowledge. This isn’t a deal breaker, but it does narrow the certification’s focus compared to what Linux+ was designed to cover.
Read on to find out more about the CompTIA Linux+ certification, including its benefits, prerequisites, and whether or not you should pursue it. With so many available CompTIA courses, learning Linux administration has never been simpler.
Expound On Linux+
As stated by Comptia linux+ “validates the competencies required of an early career IT professional supporting Linux systems.” The widespread use of this OS presented numerous challenges for the traditionally “non-technical” role of the recruiting manager.
Even if a human resources manager is familiar with the fundamentals of Linux, it may be challenging for them to assess whether or not an applicant has practical experience with the operating system.
When a candidate answers a conventional series of interview questions about Linux, all the hiring manager knows is that the candidate is more knowledgeable than the manager.
The value of Linux+ as a verification tool will not be lost on non-technical human resource managers who are tasked with hiring open-source administrators.
What Topics Are Covered On The Linux+ Exam?
Linux+ is a test of your ability to administer a Linux system. Candidates for the Linux+ certification show their prowess in the installation, maintenance, management, and troubleshooting of Linux systems by demonstrating knowledge in five major areas.
- Robotics and Computer Science
- Installation of Programs and Devices
- Identifying and Resolving Linux Problems
- Upkeep and Repair of the System’s Security
A single exam is all that’s needed to achieve your Linux+ credential as of April 2019. In the previous edition, you had to pass two exams to get your LPI certification, however, this is no longer the case in the current edition. These are the primary differences between the old and new versions of the Linux+ exam.
Questions on the exam will range from performance-based to multiple-choice with two right replies to fill in the blank. This is on purpose, as the Linux+ certification assumes that the candidate has a thorough understanding of Linux and can execute basic administrative tasks.
The Linux+ certification exam is a timed, multiple-choice test with a possible 90 questions. A score of 720 out of a possible 900 (or 80%) is required to pass the Linux+ exam.
How Much Is The Linux+ Test Itself?
To put it succinctly, the price of a single voucher is $329. If you don’t do as well as you’d like on the first try, CompTIA offers a wide variety of packages with further training opportunities and a second discount voucher.
Do You Need Any Prior Experience With Linux To Take The Linux+ Test?
CompTIA recommends that you earn the A+ and Network+ certifications in addition to having at least a year of experience as a Linux administrator. Please note that these are only recommendations and not firm rules that must be followed.
Someone with extraordinary talent can go in and take the exam without preparing in any way. But this isn’t always our recommendation.
CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Network+ certifications are recommended but not needed for the CompTIA Linux+ test. CompTIA’s commercial savvy might be inferred from the fact that it capitalized the first letter of each certification.
If an IT professional is considering getting certified, you should probably encourage them to earn two more of yours.
However, this is much more than a slick marketing strategy. By earning either the Network+ or the A+ certification, you will gain insight into the methods used by CompTIA to evaluate candidates for certification.
Your experience as a Linux administrator for a year means you’ll have quick answers to any performance-related issues.
Although a lengthy and reputable background in IT is preferable to credentials, there comes a time when even Linux+ certification is no longer relevant.
In this respect, it’s vital to know who should prioritize earning their Linux+ credential.
