Start the career as Linux Administrator – What is really required

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In this article we will talk about the how one can start the career as Linux administrator. A Linux admin, or Linux system administrator, is an IT professional who manages the functionality of a Linux system. Similar to Windows, Linux is an operating system that connects the internal hardware in electronics, including phones and computers. Administrators answer technical questions about how Linux works and collaborate with other technology experts, such as software developers. One may also choose to specialize in Cloud Computing & Automation.

Probable Preparatory Steps

  • Get a Bachelor’s degree which can be the minimum education requirement. One can also have a Master’s but that should not be a compulsion. You can chose any of the below Streams
    • Computer science
    • Information technology
    • Information science
    • Software Engineering
    • Telecommunications

Although now a days majoring in the related field is not a bar and we seen people from various backgrounds have been efficiently contributing to the technology field.

  • Training Courses : Training courses can offer a strong foundation about Linux, which you can continue to expand upon as you become more proficient. Starting with the basics of the systems they can even take you to even writing kernel or script. The most reputable Linux Administration courses is available by the Red Hat Red Hat System Administration I
  • Hands on – When you practice installing Linux, you can learn to configure the internal function of the hardware firsthand, which can help you become a competent Linux administrator. You can look various online guides and blogs that offer step-by-step guides to installing Linux on a device. Once you install the system, practice performing various task using the Linux commands. Refer our previous blog post How to Install Rocky Linux 8
  • Certifications : Once you are drowned in handling the Linux based system and you are clear of the fundamentals of the system, research Linux certifications to find one that’s best for you Yet again Red Hat still rules the Certification arena in the Linux world . Make sure to add your certification to your resume. You can go for Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) exam as the first step into the certifications.

Duties of a Linux Admin

  • Responsible for company’s Linux Infra – Linux installation, management, and troubleshooting
  • Develop, monitor and maintain features for the infrastructure, platform, and applications
  • Maintain and create tools for the Linux environment and the users
  • Keep internet requests inclusive to MySQL, Apache, PHP, DNS & other applications
  • Managing network servers
  • Analyze error logs and fixing them together with the support team
  • Planning projects to restore smooth operation in event of major disruption
  • Ensure the functionality of everyday applications (e-mail system and internal communication)
  • Run backups of data regularly and design new stored procedures
  • Maintaining system security by identifying vulnerable areas and providing protections
  • Install the required systems and security tools to provide protection
  • Provide technical assistance when needed

Skills required by the Linux Admin

  • Problem Solving Skills – Linux administrators need to troubleshoot and report bugs. They also process user concerns, which can help them establish a pattern in network issues and install a system to prevent the issues from recurring.
  • Communication : This role demands patience and active listening when they communicate with other people in their organizations. They work closely with data network engineers and developers to answer technical questions about the operating system. Linux administrators may also need to educate other testers & developers in case of any issues being brought up by the depending team members.
  • Technical Skills – As a Linux Admins he should be technically strong with certain areas –
    • Linux file systems: Knowing what systems Linux supports can help administrators properly configure the network.
    • File system hierarchy: The Linux system has a unique format, and administrators are responsible for knowing what location to store certain files.
    • Command lines: Administrators can execute different instructions within the system, such as copying and removing files or adding user accounts.
    • Disaster recovery: Operators can back up and restore files in Linux and reboot the system to prevent the loss of sensitive information.
    • Network security and firewalls: Administrators can establish security protocols in the Linux system and install functions to notify them of problems.

So what are you waiting for – Get on to the Linux system with your hands on and once you are confident enough apply to any job posting Websites. Before you apply, tailor your resume to the specific role and include details about your certification and technical abilities in your cover letter.

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