Linux Certification

Only You Can Decide If You Need Linux Certification

Linux administrators are becoming more in demand year after year as the Linux and Ubuntu based operating (which is also part of Unix) systems become more popular and more readily available in many different types of computer systems from networks to net book and really anything in between. This begs the question then of whether Linux Certification is necessary in order to work as a Linux administrator. The answer that you get for that might surprise you and it is based largely on where you want to work.

Often when you see a job description online for a Linux administrator the description will ask for a Linux Certification. The certification type might vary depending on how complex the position from requirements of certification in Linux+ to RHCSS, which is the most comprehensive certification. However, often you will find that IT companies do not require any certification at all, only a demonstrated ability to work with Linux and make it do what it supposed to. The reason for this is that an HR professional has no clue what it takes to be a good Linux administrator and will base a lot of their belief in a person's ability based on the certifications and training that they have.

This means that it is up to you to determine whether or not you need a Linux Certification or if you want your experience to speak for itself when you are looking for a job. In a nutshell, no one can make that decision but you. However, if you want to be certified in Linux, then you are going to have to use one of the four companies that offer certification: Comp TIA, LPI, Novell Corporation and RedHat, Inc.

You also need to understand that the cost for certification ranges from about $250 for the Linux + certification to about $4,000 for the RHCA. The RHCE is the most recognized exam for being the most comprehensive and providing a true test of an administrators abilities.

Choosing the best certification will have a lot to do with what you want to earn and who you want to work for. You can check online for training institutions as well as for self-learning applications. You should also check forums online to see what other people recommend and what their experiences have been with specific training and certification companies.