LPIC-1 vs Linux+

RobertKaucher

I am fairly new to Linux. I have decent administrative skills and I have been using it on and off for a few years. Currently I am starting to study the OS more seriously and would like some advice on which cert is more worth while. Should I study for the Linux+ or LPIC-1? My current career path is leaning more towards security and I believe that good Linux skills are essential to success in this area. Thanks!

BeaverC32

Why not get both? Is this something your employer will pay for? In a nutshell, Linux+ is the "easier" of the two, while LPIC is more prestigious.

Here are a couple links regarding the 2 exams:

http://certcities.com/editorial/columns/story.asp?EditorialsID=71

http://www.linux-watch.com/news/NS8086042393.html

RobertKaucher

Thanks, Beav. Your articles told me exactly what I needed to know. Sadly work would not pay for such a certification as we do not support Linux. This is strictly for professional and technical development on my part.

I think I am going to take your advice on getting both as I can make the LPIC a bit more long range. And getting the Linux+ on my resume will at least say I know the fundamentals.

Gennosuke HIGAKI

For your reference, LPIC changed their policy last year. It was 10 year validity but now 5 year term. You will have to retake or challenge a higher level in order to keept your title. So do I. They also launched level 3. Start from Linux+ and then LPIC I look forward to your success.

supertechCETma

FYI: the certcities article referenced above is a little dated. The Linux+ exam has been revised and a WHOLE lot of hardware was removed and replaced by security, networking & admin. It is a decent exam now, trust me.

Daniel333

I asked around on this not too long ago at work and to with a few friends who are professional Linux users. Out of just shy of a dozen people I talked to none of them heard of any of the Linux certifications.

I think there are plenty of HR people who have never heard of either one too.

Just an opinion here, but I think the "+" on the end of the Linux relates it to A+ and catches the attention of HR departments and hiring managers who may not be up to speed on current certifications. But who hasn’t heard of A+?

As far as getting your foot in the door, I would say Linux+ following the above logic. Then let your experience and charisma sell you once you are at the Interview.

sthomas

Certification isn't nearly as popular in the Linux world as it is for Microsoft and Cisco outside of RHCE maybe. With that said I still think it is good to get a Linux certification if you want to set yourself apart from the crowd.