Top 10 Best Linux Certifications For 2025 {Expert Pick👌}
Finding the Best Linux Certifications can be confusing.
Linux certifications have had an impact on the operating system market in today’s fast-changing technological environment.
Find the best Linux Certification and get certified at a discounted price using the Linux Foundation coupon code.
Due to its dependability, security, and adaptability, Linux has emerged as the top option for a variety of applications, from servers to embedded devices.
Getting a Linux certification will greatly improve your employment chances as the need for Linux experts increases.
The goal of this post is to provide you with a thorough review of the best Linux certifications available in 2024.
So now you can choose your certification with confidence.
What Are The Best Linux Certifications For 2025?
Here are the top 10 Best Linux courses and certification that you should take in 2025.
- Oracle Certifications
- CompTIA Linux+
- LPIC 1 – Linux Administrator
- LPIC 2 – Linux Engineer
- LPIC 3 – 300 – Linux Enterprise Professional Certification
- LFCS (Linux Foundation Certified System Administrator)
- LFCE (Linux Foundation Certified Engineer)
- Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)
- SUSE Certified Administrator (SCA) in Enterprise Linux
- Kubernetes and Cloud Native Associate (KCNA)
1. Oracle Certifications
Oracle, a well-known computer company, has created its own Linux distribution based on the Red Hat Linux framework.
Course Details | Course Syllabus |
Number of questions: 60Exam time: 90 minutesPassing score: 60%Languages: EnglishCost: $245 | Deploying, configuring, and administering Oracle Linux 8 production server environmentInstalling, configuring, and monitoring a running systemFamiliarity with Oracle Linux |
Small and medium-sized enterprises frequently use this free Linux distribution as an alternative to the premium Red Hat Enterprise Linux OS, which places a strong emphasis on uptime.
For the purpose of demonstrating proficiency in its Linux environment, Oracle has also launched its own certification program.
Individuals who could demonstrate competence in administering systems running Oracle’s Linux 5 and Linux 6 distributions may formerly get the Oracle Certified Associate (OCA) Linux 5 and 6 System Administrator certification. At the end of November 2021, this certification was, however, discontinued.
2. CompTIA Linux+
The CompTIA Linux+ certification is primarily intended for those who want to improve their work chances and develop their corporate careers.
Course Info | Course Syllabus |
Number of questions: 90Exam time: 90 minutesPassing score: 720/900Languages: English, Japanese, Portuguese, and SpanishCost: $348 | Security, storage, and visualization,Kernel modulesEnterprise-level device managementGit and automationServer-side and command line usageNetworkingFirewallsTroubleshootingSELinux |
This certification includes vital and cutting-edge upskilling methods that address many Linux-related topics.
You will learn about Linux Commands, Linux Distribution, Linux Networking, Linux Installation, Configuration, Maintenance, and more by earning this certification. Working with the Linux operating system is possible with the help of these abilities.
You will be able to configure, oversee, and offer support for Linux-based Operating Systems once you have earned the CompTIA Linux+ certification.
If you’re starting your path toward certifications for Linux systems administrators, this course is a great place to start. Multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and performance-based evaluations are evenly distributed throughout the certification questionnaire to ensure that you get real, hands-on Linux knowledge.
For developers, engineers, cybersecurity experts, and IT professionals, the CompTIA Linux+ certification is a very good fit and has many benefits.
It is highly valuable for advancing professional opportunities and showcasing mastery in the Linux field.
3. LPIC 1 – Linux Administrator
LPIC 1 – Linux Administrator is one of the finest qualifications in the profession which is widely recommended by seasoned Linux Senior Administrators.
Course Info | Course Syllabus |
Number of questions: Two exams, 60 questions eachExam time: 90 minutes for each examPassing score: 500/800Languages: English, Japanese, Portuguese (Brazilian), SpanishCost: $120 | System ArchitectureLinux InstallationPackage ManagementGNU and Unix CommandsLinux Filesystems, Filesystem Hierarchy Standard and DevicesShell & Shell ScriptingDesktops and Interfaces.AdministrationSystem Services |
This credential is well-known and well-accepted, which makes it a preferred option among professionals. It has the distinction of being the first multi-level certification for Linux professionals.
The LPIC-1 certification, developed by the Linux Professional Institute, rates applicants’ proficiency in carrying out necessary maintenance procedures using the command line. It covers a variety of topics, including networking, installing Linux, and setup procedures.
The LPIC-1 certification is very helpful for people who want to prove they are competent system administrators who can handle real-world problems.
There are no particular requirements to meet in order to receive the LPIC-1 certification. The certification procedure is made up of the 101 and 102 tests, both of which candidates must pass. After being attained, LPIC-1 certification is valid for 5 years.
4. LPIC 2 – Linux Engineer
LPIC 2 – Linux Engineer is the tiered professional certification provided by LPI including the LPIC-2 Linux Engineer certification at the following level.
Course Info | Course Syllabus |
Number of questions: Two exams, 60 questions eachExam time: 90 minutes for each examPassing score: 500/800Languages: EnglishCost: $120 | System StartUpLinux KernelFileSystem and DevicesCapacity PlanningAdvanced Storage Device AdministrationNetwork Configuration & System MaintenanceFile Sharing and Network Client ManagementDomain Name ServerWeb and EmailSystem Security |
Candidates who get this certification are prepared to manage small- to medium-sized networks. Candidates must have a valid LPIC-1 Certification in order to be qualified for this certification.
It’s crucial to remember that there is no specific order in which the LPIC-1 and LPIC-2 tests must be taken. The LPIC-2 certification is good for five years after being earned.
5. LPIC 3 – 300 – Linux Enterprise Professional Certification
LPIC 3 – 300 is one of the most cutting-edge programs in the industry offered by the Linux Professional Institute.
Course Info | Course Syllabus |
Number of questions: 60 questionsExam time: 90 minutesPassing score: 500/800Languages: English, JapaneseCost: $120 | OpenLDAP Configuration and Authentication BackendSamba – Basics, Share Basics, User & Group ManagementSamba – Name Services and Domain IntegrationWorking with Windows and Linux Clients. |
This certification is not appropriate for novices or those with mediocre skill levels because it is primarily created for professionals using Linux at the enterprise level.
LPIC-3 provides four distinct specialty certificates and is regarded as one of the highest levels of distribution-neutral best Linux certifications on the market. While you would initially think that taking four tests is a difficult endeavor, this is not the case.
You just need to pass one of the four specialty versions in order to be certified as an LPIC-3. As an illustration, the LPIC-3 Mixed Environment specialization aims to verify your proficiency in managing Linux systems in such settings.
6. LFCS (Linux Foundation Certified System Administrator)
The LFCS (Linux Foundation Certified System Administrator) certification has been created exclusively for people just beginning out in Linux System Administration
Course Info | Course Syllabus |
Number of questions: Performance-based examExam time: 2 hoursPassing score: 66%Languages: English, Spanish, Portuguese, Japanese, and GermanCost: $375 (exam only) or $575 (course and exam) | Essential Commands, File Systems, and Features.User and Group Management and System-wide environmentsOperation of Running Systems, Boot, Reboot, Install, Configure, and Troubleshoot.Service Configuration, DNS, SSH, HTTP, and Virtual Machine Maintenance.Networking, IP Routing, and synchronizationStorage Management, LVM Storage, RAID Devices, and Configured File Systems. |
It evaluates candidates using realistic simulations of job duties and situational issues, giving potential employers a similar level of hands-on training.
This certification may be obtained online and is valid for three years. It’s important to note that obtaining this certification does not need a prior understanding of the topic.
7. LFCE (Linux Foundation Certified Engineer)
The Linux Foundation Certified Engineer (LFCE) certification is strongly advised for those with at least three to five years of significant Linux expertise.
Course Info | Course Syllabus |
Number of questions: Performance-basedExam time: 2 hoursPassing score: 57%Languages: English, Spanish, Portuguese, Japanese, and GermanCost: $375 | Essential Commands, File Systems, and Features.User and Group Management and System-wide environmentsOperation of Running Systems, Boot, Reboot, Install, Configure, and Troubleshoot.Service Configuration, DNS, SSH, HTTP, and Virtual Machine Maintenance.Networking, IP Routing, and synchronizationStorage Management, LVM Storage, RAID Devices, and Configured File Systems. |
Those looking to enhance their careers in the Linux industry should get this certification.
The goal of the LFCE certification is to improve and advance the candidate’s skill set. Real-world workplace scenarios are used to help students strengthen their problem-solving skills.
You will learn useful skills to help you professionally manage the changing trends in your Linux career by earning the LFCE certification.
Other than having 3 to 5 years of prior Linux expertise, there are no specified requirements for candidature for this certification.
8. Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)
RHCSA is a foundational certification for Linux system administration.
Course Details | Course Syllabus |
---|---|
Number of questions: Performance-based exam Exam time: 3 hours Passing score: Varies by version Languages: English, Japanese Cost: $400 | System installation and configuration Managing users and groups Configuring storage and filesystems Network configuration and security Essential Linux troubleshooting Automation with Ansible basics |
9. SUSE Certified Administrator (SCA) in Enterprise Linux
SCA validates expertise in SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES).
Course Details | Course Syllabus |
---|---|
Number of questions: 70 multiple-choice questions Exam time: 90 minutes Passing score: 70% Languages: English Cost: $200 | Installing and configuring SUSE Linux Enterprise Server Managing users, groups, and permissions System initialization and services Software and package management Networking and system security Performance monitoring and tuning |
10. Kubernetes and Cloud Native Associate (KCNA)
KCNA is a foundational certification for Kubernetes and cloud-native technologies.
Course Details | Course Syllabus |
---|---|
Number of questions: 60 multiple-choice questions Exam time: 90 minutes Passing score: 75% Languages: English Cost: $250 | Kubernetes architecture and fundamentals Container orchestration concepts Application deployment and management Security principles in Kubernetes Helm package management Networking and troubleshooting in Kubernetes |
What Are the Pros of Linux Certification?
With an estimated value of $15.6 billion forecast by 2027, a huge rise from $3.89 billion in 2019, the worldwide Linux OS industry is primed for tremendous development on the corporate front.
This shows a rising trend of companies using different Linux distributions to run their operations.
Today, a wide spectrum of companies, from huge multinational firms to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), use Linux.
In the future, it is anticipated that the number of companies using Linux will rise even more. Learning Linux is essential for server and system administrators, as well as individuals in similar professions, to keep their skills current and improve their CVs.
The value of certification in this field will keep expanding as businesses depend more and more on individuals who are knowledgeable about Linux to ensure dependable and secure operations.
Given the nature of open-source software, many new Linux distributions will definitely appear, and they will be accompanied by vendor-specific certifications. Professionals will always benefit from obtaining certification that is unique to the Linux distribution they use, if available.
However, CompTIA Linux+ will continue to be the benchmark for proving thorough proficiency across Linux operating platforms. The CompTIA Linux+ certification denotes a solid basic understanding and expertise in administering them, regardless of the advent of new distributions and their expanded capabilities.
Which Linux Certification Should You Choose?
Emsi Burning Glass data analysis revealed that between November 2020 and October 2021, there were almost 10,000 job advertisements in the United States that either needed or favored applicants with the certification of the best Linux certifications (9,639 job adverts specifically).
CompTIA Linux+ emerged as one of the most sought-after certificates among the numerous Linux-focused qualifications, showing up in 3,787 job advertisements. With 4,122 references, the Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) credential came in second place.
Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA), Linux Professional Institute (LPI), and Red Hat Certified Architect (RHCA) are a few more well-known qualifications that are regularly cited.
Conclusion
Linux certifications is a great asset for IT professionals looking to boost their career in this field.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced professional, certifications like CompTIA Linux+, RHCSA, and LPIC provide a structured way to validate your skills and stand out in the job market.
Choose the right certification is essential based on your career goals. If you’re wondering whether Linux training is worth it, the answer depends on your learning goals and how deeply you want to specialize in Linux.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better RHCSA or LFCS?
If your work environment is mainly centered around CentOS or Ubuntu & lacks the specific requirements of enterprise-level scalability, LFCS is the optimal choice. On the other hand, if your environment operates at an enterprise level or is primarily based on Red Hat Enterprise Linux, RHCSA would be the more suitable selection.
Can you get a job with just Linux certification?
You can use this qualification to start working as a system administrator, network engineer, or web developer, among other positions. A Linux Certification sets you apart and proves that you have a solid grasp of the open-source platform. So get started by choosing one of the best Linux certifications
What is the first Linux certification?
The first & one of the best Linux certifications in the Linux Professional Institute’s (LPI) multi-level professional certification program is called LPIC-1. The candidate’s ability to install and set up a computer running Linux, conduct maintenance chores on the command line, and configure fundamental networking will be verified by the LPIC-1.
Is the Linux certification lifetime?
The test objectives are typically changed every three years to keep up with changing technology, and Linux Professional Institute credentials are valid for five years before you need to recertify or certify at a higher level.
What is a Linux salary?
Professionals may earn up to $158,500 a year, but the average salary for a Linux System Administrator is presently between $81,500 (25th percentile) and $120,000 (75th percentile). According to Glassdoor, the national average salary for this occupation is $78,322 annually.
Are Linux Certifications worth IT?
The worth of a Linux certification always depends on the career & job opportunities you are looking for. If you are looking for a role like Linux system administration, DevOps, or cloud computing then it can be your expertise to employers. These Linux certifications can also enhance your resume.
Is there any certification for Linux?
Yes, there are several certifications available for Linux, some of them are CompTIA Linux+, Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE), and Linux Professional Institute (LPI) certifications.
What is the best certification in Linux?
The “best” Linux certification sometimes depends on your goals & the specific skills you want to acquire. However, Linux certifications from Red Hat, such as the Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) or Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA), are widely recognized & respected in the industry. CompTIA Linux+, Linux Professional Institute (LPI) certifications & giac certified unix security administrator are also some of the very popular choices.
Are Linux certifications worth IT?
Yes, Linux Certification worth every penny you spend on it since it provides you with industry recoganized certification.