You want to become a systems administrator someday? It is what every little boy and girl dream of doing these days, you know. To do this, you will need to get a number of different certifications, including Linux. Getting your certification can be a long and arduous process, but once you get it, you can finally get a sweet job and get on your way to bigger and better things. Well, hopefully anyway.
Places to Get Your Linux Certification
There are a few different places that will help you get your certification. Depending on what you need, each option should be thoroughly researched to ensure it’s the best fit for your desired outcome:
* CompTIA: Linux+
* LPI: Linux Professional Institute Certified (LPIC)
* Novell: Certified Linux Administrator/Professional/Engineer (CLA/CLP/CLE)
* Red Hat: Red Hat Certified Technician/Engineer/Security Specialist/Architect (RHCT/RHCE/RHCA/RHCSS)
And these training sessions aren’t free either. The current 2010 prices are as follows:
* Linux+ $239
* LPIC exams: $160 each for level 1 and 2 exams, $260 for level 3 core exam
* CLA exam: $195
* CLP exam: $195
* CLE exam: $195
* GCUX exam: $899
* RHCT exam: $399
* RHCE exam: $799
* RHCA exams: 5 exams at $749 each
* RHCSS exams: 3 exams at $749 each
This sounds like a lot of money and that’s because it is. When you want to get good training, it seems you need to pay good money. The best way to handle these prices is to find bundle training packages, which can be slightly cheaper. In addition, try to get your employer to pay for your training for you. You will also want to try to seek out grants or other funding wherever you can. Sitting outside of the training session with a paper cup while playing your banjo is another idea.
Why Linux?
Though Linux might not roll off the tongue like other programs, it’s proven itself to be more stable and reliable for larger systems. When you want to work with clients who have a number of different needs, you need to be ready to work with any system that’s in front of you. Since so many people are not familiar with Linux, knowing this system will allow you to be an asset to your next employer, without even needing to have experience. Linux is also something that is found on many personal computers and personal computing devices. Knowing this system will make you invaluable in more than just the computing field.
With a Linux certification, you will be able to help with a number of different tasks, including systems administration as well as help desk functions. Though these might not seem like large tasks, they can help companies around the world, even if you’re the only person manning the desk. You can become a consultant that helps to create better systems management and better systems movement. Just because you know what others do not.