CompTIA Certifications

CompTIA Linux+

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CompTIA Linux+ validates the competencies required of IT Professionals supporting Linux systems.

The new CompTIA Linux+ is geared to teach the learner who will use Linux to manage everything from cars and smartphones to servers and supercomputers, as a vast number of enterprises use Linux in cloud, cybersecurity, mobile and web administration applications.

In the new CompTIA Linux+, candidates are only required to pass one exam for certification. However, the new certification is no longer eligible for the LPI 2-for-1 offer.

  • CompTIA Linux+ is the only job-focused Linux certification covering the latest foundational skills demanded by hiring managers.
  • Unlike other certifications, the new exam includes performance-based and multiple-choice questions to identify the employees who can do the job.
  • The exam covers tasks associated with all major distributions of Linux, setting the foundation for advanced vendor/distro-specific knowledge.

CompTIA Linux+ Power by LPI will be available through October 1, 2019, at which time will retire and not be available. CompTIA Linux+ covers common tasks in major distributions of Linux, including the Linux command line, basic maintenance, installing and configuring workstations, and networking.

The two exams cover the following domains:

Exam Domains

XK0-005
% of Exam
1.0 System Management
32%
2.0 Security
21%
Security
19%
3.0 Scripting, Containers, and Automation
19%
4.0 Troubleshooting
28%
XK0-004
% of Exam
Hardware and System Configuration
21%
Systems Operation and Maintenance
26%
Security
19%
Linux Troubleshooting and Diagnostics
20%
Automation and Scripting
14%

NOTE: To become certified, candidates must complete both exams.

What’s New with Linux+ XK0-005

The new version of CompTIA Linux+ covers how Linux powers the cloud and automates critical processes. Linux enables business to automate and orchestrate processes to scale and improve operations. These include infrastructure as code and containers, both of which are covered as separate objectives.

The following new subject areas have been added to the new exam.

Emerging technology clusters:

  • Containerization of systems running Linux systems
  • Developers using Linux for IoT applications
  • Automation and scripting
  • Ansible, Chef, Puppet
  • Automation via SSH
  • Docker and Kubernetes

Areas of continued broad involvement include the following:

  • Networking
  • Virtualization
  • Cybersecurity

Areas with net increasing time and resources devoted to specific tasks include:

  • Cybersecurity
  • Cloud configuration and management
  • Supporting and administration of SaaS applications

Popular Job Roles

  • Linux Administrator
  • Junior Network Administrator
  • Systems Administrator
  • Web Administrator/Developer
  • Linux Engineer
  • Junior Cloud Engineer
  • Technical Support Specialist
  • Network Administrator
  • Cybersecurity Engineer

Organizations that Recommend or Teach Linux+

  • U.S. Department of Defense (DoD)
  • U.S. Navy
  • General Dynamics
  • Aetna
  • Booz Allen Hamilton
  • Dell

Exam Details

Exam Codes XK0-005
Launch Date July 12, 2022
Exam Description The new version of CompTIA Linux+ covers an evolving job role that focuses more on how Linux powers the cloud. The exam includes cutting edge technologies that help automate and orchestrate business processes, including infrastructure as code and containers.
 
Number of Questions 90 questions
Type of Questions Performance-based, Multiple Choice (Single Response), Multiple Response and Fill-in-the-Blank
Length of Test 90 Minutes
Passing Score 720 (on a scale of 100 to 900)
Recommended Experience Recommended experience is 12 months of hands-on experience working with Linux servers in a junior Linux support engineer or junior cloud/DevOps support engineer job role. CompTIA A+, Network+, and Server+ or similar certifications and/or knowledge are also recommended.
 
Languages English only
Retirement January 1st, 2023 (English language version)
August 2nd, 2023 (Japanese language version)

Testing Provider

Pearson VUE