Microsoft appears to have drunk the Linux koolaid and IT pros are now faced with a completely new certification and training landscape. We outline the certifications IT professionals should pursue as they try to determine what skills and knowledge are most relevant in this era where Microsoft is open.
Microsoft and Linux Certification Pathways – From the Trainers
Our trainers were asked what certifications and training would make IT professionals more successful in their careers. This is because Microsoft and Linux can play well together. Shawn Powers, Garth Schulte and others shared their thoughts on the best paths to success.
Not surprisingly, our trainers recommend that you start from the beginning — which we believe is a good place to begin — and then follow this path.
Learn how to become a security expert with SPOTO’s Cybersecurity Training
Start trainingLinux Essentials (composed of one exam: 010-150). Shawn recommends Linux Essentials to those who are new to Linux because it “kind of eases the learning curve.” Although it is not required, it is a great way to get rid of the ‘deer in headlights’ look for people who have never used Linux. Linux in the server room is almost a passion of mine.
Shawn continued, “Historically, one secret of a sysadmin was to use Linux inside the server room and not reveal it to anyone.” It was much simpler, quicker, and easier to set up a mail server or web server with Linux.
Microsoft is bringing a new era to openness and sysadmins will be able to come out of the server closets and fly their Linux flag. The first step is to get your feet wet in Linux. If you are already familiar with Linux at a basic level, you can skip Linux Essentials to dive into the deeper end with LPIC-1 and LPIC-2.
Microsoft MCSA Windows Server 2012 (composed of three exams: 70-401, 70-411 and 70-412); and/or Microsoft MCSA Windows Server 2016 (composed of three exams 70-410, 70-411 and 70-411); and/or Microsoft MCSA Windows Server 2016 (composed of three exams 70-740, 70-741 and 70-742)Garth gave a glowing endorsement to both Server 2012, and Server 2016. “Windows Server 2012 R2 has been a stable operating system for many years and will continue to be so.” These skills are highly sought-after and well-paid in Microsoft shops.
Garth said, “Windows Server 2016 is Microsoft’s best server OS to-date!” It is brimming over new features, while building upon previous innovations across Compute, Security, Storage, Virtualization, etc. that will improve our infrastructure, workloads, staff efficiency, and staff productivity.
SPOTO learners can use virtual labs in both the Server 2012 and Server 2016 courses. SPOTO learners can use virtual labs in both the Server 2012 and Server 2016 courses.
CompTIA Linux+/LPIC-1 (made of two exams: LX0-103 & LX0-104). Shawn states, “Certifications with LPI are great because it covers a wide range of topics system administrators will face.”
Shawn was asked by IT professionals why they should learn more about Linux. “Because Linux users tend to be more attractive. Attractive office workers increase attendance, which in turn drives down sick-leave costs. Or because Linux continues its dominance in the data center. Advanced knowledge and problem-solving skills are key to making better technology decisions. Advanced troubleshooting skills can reduce downtime.
Learn more about CompTIA Linux+/LPIC-1 certification.
Microsoft MCSA: Linux on Azure (made of two exams: 70-533 & LFCS)Trai