Top 11 Linux Administrator Certifications
Updated 17 min read
Certifications for a Linux administrator are important in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and proficiency with the Linux operating system. Certified administrators are more likely to be considered for higher-level positions, as employers want to ensure that their IT personnel have the necessary skills and expertise to handle complex tasks. Certification also provides assurance that the individual has gone through an extensive training process and is knowledgeable about the Linux environment. Additionally, certifications can provide a competitive edge when applying for jobs, as employers often prefer those with proof of their qualifications.
The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Linux Administrators and explain how they can help to advance a linux administrator's career.
What are Linux Administrator Certifications?
Linux Administrator Certification is a professional certification that is designed to validate the knowledge and skills of system administrators who use Linux in their workplace. The certification focuses on key areas such as installation, configuration, security, maintenance, and troubleshooting of Linux systems. By obtaining this certification, you will be able to demonstrate your expertise and knowledge in these areas.
Having a Linux Administrator Certification can help you stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs or promotions. It also shows potential employers that you have the necessary skills and experience to work with Linux systems effectively. Additionally, having this certification can open up opportunities for higher salaries and better job positions, since employers are willing to pay more for certified professionals. Finally, it can provide you with a sense of personal accomplishment by showing that you are dedicated to keeping up with the latest technologies and trends in the industry.
Pro Tip: When considering a Linux administrator certification, look for one that is vendor-neutral and covers the most popular distributions of Linux. This will ensure you are prepared for any environment you may enter. Additionally, seek out certifications with hands-on experience or lab components to guarantee you are well versed in the practical application of your skills.
Related: What does a Linux Administrator do?
Top 11 Linux Administrator Certifications
Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Linux Administrators today.
1. Linux Professional Institute (LPI) Linux Essentials
Linux Professional Institute (LPI) Linux Essentials is a certification program that provides an introduction to the world of Linux. It is designed to give individuals a basic understanding of the Linux operating system and its components, as well as the skills needed to use it. The program consists of two exams: one online and one in-person.
The online exam is designed to test your knowledge of basic Linux concepts such as the command line, file systems, networking, and system administration. The exam takes approximately 2 hours to complete and costs $125 USD.
The in-person exam is designed to test your practical skills in using Linux. This exam requires you to demonstrate your ability to perform various tasks such as setting up a network connection, installing software packages, configuring system services, and troubleshooting common problems. The exam takes approximately 4 hours to complete and costs $150 USD.
To get LPI Linux Essentials certified, you must pass both exams with a score of 70% or higher. Once you have passed both exams, you will receive your official certification from LPI which will be valid for three years.
2. CompTIA Linux+
CompTIA Linux+ is a certification program that tests an individual's knowledge of Linux operating systems and related technologies. It is designed to validate the technical competency of system administrators, engineers, and developers working in a Linux environment.
The CompTIA Linux+ exam consists of two parts: LX0-103 and LX0-104. The LX0-103 covers topics such as installation, configuration, command line tools, scripting, networking, security, troubleshooting and more. The LX0-104 covers topics such as system architecture, package management, file systems & storage media and more.
It typically takes about three months to prepare for the CompTIA Linux+ exam. During this time you should become familiar with the topics covered on the exam by studying books or taking online courses. You can also find practice exams online to help prepare you for the real thing.
To get CompTIA Linux+, you must pass both parts of the exam with a score of at least 750 out of 900 points for each part. You can take the exams at any Pearson VUE testing center or through an authorized proctoring service provider.
The cost of CompTIA Linux+ varies depending on where you take it and how you register for it but typically ranges from $250-$400 USD per part (so $500-$800 total).
3. Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)
Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) is a certification program offered by Red Hat, Inc. It is designed to validate the skills of system administrators and other IT professionals who are responsible for the installation, configuration, and management of Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems. The RHCSA certification verifies that an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to perform essential tasks on a Red Hat Enterprise Linux system.
The RHCSA exam typically takes about two hours to complete and covers topics such as system installation, configuration, user management, file permissions, network services, storage administration, security settings, and troubleshooting. To become certified as an RHCSA, individuals must pass a hands-on exam administered by Red Hat.
To prepare for the RHCSA exam, individuals should have experience working with Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems in a production environment. Additionally, they should be familiar with basic concepts such as command line usage and text editors. It is also recommended that individuals take a course or self-study materials provided by Red Hat prior to taking the exam.
The cost of the RHCSA exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $400-$500 USD.
4. Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE)
Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) is a certification program from Red Hat, Inc. that is designed to validate an individual's ability to configure, deploy, and manage Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems. The certification is based on the Red Hat Enterprise Linux 7 operating system and includes topics such as system installation, configuration, security, networking, storage management, and troubleshooting.
To become an RHCE certified engineer, you must pass a single exam that tests your knowledge of the skills needed to install and configure Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems. The exam consists of two parts: a hands-on lab portion and a multiple-choice section. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.
In order to take the RHCE exam, you must first register with the Red Hat Certification Program by creating an account on their website. After registering for the program, you can purchase an exam voucher from the website or from any authorized training partner. Exam vouchers typically cost around $400 USD depending on your location.
Once you have purchased your voucher, you can schedule your exam at any Pearson VUE testing center near you or online through their website. After completing the exam successfully, you will receive your RHCE certification within 3-4 weeks via email from Red Hat Inc.
Overall it typically takes about 1 month to get your RHCE certification if all goes well with scheduling and taking the exam itself.
5. Novell Certified Linux Professional (NCLP)
Novell Certified Linux Professional (NCLP) is a certification program offered by Novell, Inc. that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in the Linux operating system. The NCLP is designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their expertise in the installation, configuration, and management of Linux systems.
The NCLP certification requires passing two exams: the CLP 5 Exam and the Advanced Administration for SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 11 Exam. The CLP 5 Exam covers topics such as installation and configuration of Linux systems, troubleshooting, networking, security, scripting, and system administration. The Advanced Administration for SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 11 Exam focuses on advanced topics such as system monitoring and performance tuning.
It typically takes about two months to prepare for both exams. To get started with studying for the NCLP certification, it is recommended to have a good understanding of basic Linux concepts and commands before attempting either exam. Additionally, there are many resources available online that can be used to supplement study efforts such as practice tests, tutorials, books, and courses from vendors like Red Hat or SUSE.
The cost of taking both exams varies depending on location but generally ranges from $250-$500 USD per exam.
6. SUSE Certified Linux Administrator (CLA)
SUSE Certified Linux Administrator (CLA) is a certification program designed to validate the knowledge and skills of system administrators in the SUSE Linux Enterprise Server environment. The certification validates that the administrator has a comprehensive understanding of the SUSE Linux Enterprise Server operating system and its associated technologies.
The CLA exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. It covers topics such as installation, configuration, administration, security, networking, troubleshooting, storage management, and more. The exam can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center or online using the OnVUE platform.
The cost for taking the CLA exam is $200 USD. However, if you are a member of the SUSE Partner Program or an active participant in the SUSE community (such as a forum contributor), you may be eligible for discounted pricing on your exam fee.
7. Oracle Linux 5 and 6 System Administration
Oracle Linux 5 and 6 System Administration is a comprehensive course designed to teach system administrators how to install, configure, and maintain Oracle Linux 5 and 6 systems. This course covers topics such as installation of the operating system, basic system configuration, user management, security features, network services, storage management, performance tuning and troubleshooting.
The duration of the course is typically 3 days (24 hours). It can be taken in-person or online. The cost for the course varies depending on the provider.
To get Oracle Linux 5 and 6 System Administration certification you must pass an exam that covers all topics covered in the course. The exam is available from Oracle University. The cost for this exam is $245 USD.
8. Ubuntu Certified Professional
Ubuntu Certified Professional (UCP) is a certification offered by Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu. It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge of and experience with the Ubuntu operating system. UCP certifies that an individual has demonstrated the skills necessary to install, configure, secure, and troubleshoot Ubuntu systems.
The UCP exam consists of multiple-choice questions which are designed to test an individual’s knowledge of Ubuntu and related topics such as Linux command line usage, networking, security, and system administration. The exam typically takes around two hours to complete and must be taken in person at a certified testing center.
In order to take the UCP exam, individuals must first register for it online and pay the associated fee. The cost of the exam varies depending on where it is taken but typically ranges from $225-$250 USD. Once registered for the exam, individuals will receive instructions on how to find a testing center in their area as well as information on how to prepare for the exam.
Once passed, individuals will receive their UCP certificate which will be valid for three years before needing to be renewed. Renewal requires passing another UCP exam or taking additional courses approved by Canonical.
9. HP-UX System Administration
HP-UX System Administration is a comprehensive system administration course designed to provide the student with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage HP-UX systems. This course covers topics such as installation, configuration, system management, security, networking, system tuning, troubleshooting and more.
The length of the course varies depending on the provider but typically takes between five and seven days. The cost of the course can range from $2,000 - $3,000 depending on the provider and location.
In order to get certified in HP-UX System Administration you must pass an exam administered by HPE or one of its authorized partners. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as installation, configuration, system management, security, networking and system tuning. After passing the exam you will receive a certification that is valid for three years.
To become certified in HP-UX System Administration you must have experience working with HP-UX systems as well as knowledge of Unix/Linux operating systems. You should also have a good understanding of networking concepts and protocols. Additionally you should be familiar with scripting languages such as Bash or Perl.
10. IBM AIX System Administration
IBM AIX System Administration is a comprehensive system administration program designed to provide IT professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to manage and maintain IBM AIX systems. It covers topics such as system installation, configuration, maintenance, performance tuning, security, disaster recovery, backup and restore operations.
The program consists of three courses: IBM AIX System Administration I (AIX 7.1), IBM AIX System Administration II (AIX 7.2) and IBM AIX System Administration III (AIX 7.3). Each course is designed to be completed in four days and can be taken online or at an authorized training center.
To become certified in IBM AIX System Administration requires passing all three exams which are available through Pearson VUE testing centers worldwide. The cost of the exams vary depending on location but typically range from $200-$250 USD per exam.
Once you have passed all three exams you will receive your official certification as an IBM Certified Systems Administrator - AIX v7 Administrator credential which is valid for three years from the date of completion.
11. Citrix XenServer 6 Administration
Citrix XenServer 6 is a virtualization platform that allows you to create multiple virtual machines (VMs) on a single physical server. It provides an efficient way to manage and deploy multiple applications, operating systems, and hardware configurations in a secure and cost-effective manner.
XenServer 6 is available for free download from the Citrix website. It takes approximately 10 minutes to download the software, depending on your internet connection speed. Once downloaded, installation is easy and can be completed in about 30 minutes.
Once installed, XenServer 6 provides a simple graphical user interface (GUI) for managing VMs, applications, storage devices, networking components, and other resources. The GUI also includes tools for monitoring system performance and resource utilization.
XenServer 6 is available at no cost; however, there are additional features that can be purchased as part of an Enterprise Edition license package. This package includes features such as high availability clustering, advanced storage options, live migration of VMs between servers, automated patching of VMs and more. Pricing for the Enterprise Edition license varies depending on the number of CPUs included in the license package.
Do You Really Need a Linux Administrator Certificate?
When it comes to deciding whether or not you need a Linux Administrator Certificate, the answer depends on your individual situation. For some people, a certificate may be necessary in order to gain employment in the field of Linux administration. It may also be required for certain roles within an existing organization.
However, for many people, a Linux Administrator Certificate is not necessarily essential for success. Experience and knowledge are often more important than credentials when it comes to landing a job as a Linux administrator. If you have extensive experience with the system, employers will likely take this into account when considering you for an open position.
Having said that, having a Linux Administrator Certificate can certainly help you stand out from other applicants and demonstrate your commitment to the field. It can also prove that you have made the effort to learn the fundamentals of administering Linux systems and stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices. In addition, earning a certification shows that you are willing to invest time and energy into developing your skillset, which is highly valued by potential employers.
Ultimately, whether or not you decide to pursue a Linux Administrator Certificate is up to you; however, if it fits into your career goals, it could be worth investing in one.
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FAQs About Linux Administrator Certifications
Q1. What qualifications do I need to become a Linux Administrator?
A1. To become a Linux Administrator, you will need to have an in-depth knowledge of computer systems and networks, as well as experience with the Linux operating system. Additionally, you may also consider pursuing certification from organizations such as the Linux Professional Institute (LPI) or Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA).
Q2. How long does it take to get certified as a Linux Administrator?
A2. The amount of time it takes to get certified as a Linux Administrator depends on the specific certification program and your level of knowledge and experience with the Linux operating system. Generally speaking, most programs require at least 3 months of study and preparation before taking the exam.
Q3. Are there any prerequisites for taking the Linux Administrator Certification Exam?
A3. Yes, depending on the certification program you choose, there may be certain prerequisites that must be met prior to taking the exam. For example, some programs may require participants to have prior experience with the command line interface or a specific version of the Linux operating system.
Q4. How much does it cost to get certified as a Linux Administrator?
A4. Costs for certification programs vary depending on the organization offering them and whether or not you are eligible for discounts or scholarships. Generally speaking, most programs range from $200 - $400 USD per exam attempt or subscription plan fees that cover all exams required for certification within one year's time period.
Q5. What type of jobs can I get after becoming a Certified Linux Administrator?
A5: After becoming a Certified Linux Administrator, you can pursue jobs such as Systems Engineer/Administrator, DevOps Engineer/Administrator, Network Engineer/Administrator, Security Engineer/Administrator or Database Engineer/Administrator specializing in using and maintaining systems running on the Linux platform