How long to get Linux+?

DoubleNNs

I've heard people say it's an extremely hard exam that takes months and months to pass. And on the other side of the spectrum I've heard people reassure that "it's still just a CompTIA exam" and that it's not all that hard.

I'm thinking about putting my Cisco studies on hold and focusing on getting up to speed with Linux because of my new job. But the fact that the CCNA is changing this summer and I already have my study materials purchased puts a time limit on everything.

Assuming I have absolutely no Linux experience, how long do you think it'd take me to study for and pass the exam? (Either in hours or in weeks)

lsud00d

I started the job I'm currently in with virtually *no* linux experience and it's a linux sys admin position. As a contractor it was required my position have the Linux+ for the RFP which was due soon after I started. Luckily I was given a LOT of hands on work and time to study when I first started, so between work and studying at home I completed the Linux+ about 2 months after I started.

That said, I studied harder than I've ever studied (including in college) for nearly the whole 2 months. The test was harder to me than any MS exam I've taken, but again I was 100% green to the topic in general, whereas I've been using Windows since 3.1 as a child and have had varying server experience since 2005.

The L+ exam covers a LOT if you're new to linux and it's not to be taken lightly.

Also FWIW the only other CompTIA exam I've taken is the Security+, but given what I've seen from the A+ and Network+, the Linux+ is EASILY the hardest entry level CompTIA cert.

jamthat

I am also thinking about tackling this after CCNA and S+..seems like it will be pretty difficult, but I think it'll be worth it!

DoubleNNs

Well, right now I'm just lvl 1 Technical Support at my job. But everything is Linux there and the more comfortable/adept I am with Linux the more valuable I'll be and the easier/sooner I'll accept new responsibilities.

Studying my butt off for 2 months doesn't sound too bad however. And to excel at the current job, I'd do it. But looking at the time I have to complete my 2013 goals, I don't think I could afford to spend anymore time that that. Not now at least.

DoubleNNs

Anyone else have any input for how long in hours/weeks studying for the Linux+ might take?

ally_uk

What are you currently using to study? books, videos?

What level are you currently at? can you use the CLI and do the basics?

Myself I was thinking about taking the Linux+ but this has been put on hold, Instead I have selected Ubuntu Server and have set myself some small goals to build a foundation before I undertake any certification.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Linux-Command-Line-Introduction/dp/1593273894/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1363444375&sr=8-1

You cannot go wrong with the above book like yourself I am also a beginner when it comes to Linux I have read through a couple of books aimed at beginners which have left me with nothing more than a headache and frustration. I am currently working through this book and am practicing and taking notes on commands.

Because I have selected Ubuntu Server as my distro two good resources I have found to setup services are

https://help.ubuntu.com/12.10/serverguide/serverguide.pdf

https://help.ubuntu.com/community/Servers

I also have

http://www.amazon.co.uk/CompTIA-Linux-Complete-LX0-101-LX0-102/dp/0470888458/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1363444601&sr=8-1

For Linux+ studies and the trainsignal videos When It actually comes to the studying I will build myself a lab setup a Centos and Debian based VM and practice I will use evernote to write out the exam objectives and take notes on each section and practice to reinforce the information.

Reading through the book will not be enough unless you are a Linux Guru you will need to practice and develop a firm understanding of how everything works

Flemeth

It depends on the person and the way he learns but i would say 2 months with 5h a day is enough for almost everyone . The exam is not hard , harder is to learn all the ecosystem knowledge that involves linux if you start from absolute 0 . Let me tell you , it can be intimidating at start. I would suggest you start with something very friendly and noob level like Linux Essentials by Roderick W. Smith that more or less grounds you. After that you can probably go directly to the study guides for Linux+ ( best is by same author Roderick W. Smith)
Also it helps allot to make the full jump aka switch at home and work (if possible) to linux . You ll still spend the vast majority of time in the GUI but u ll get much more comfortable with linux.[h=3][/h]