CompTIA Linux+ vs RHCSA Certification
Compare CompTIA Linux+ and Red Hat RHCSA for Linux administration.
CompTIA Linux+
CompTIA
Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)
Red Hat
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Compare all aspects of these certifications side by side
| Feature | CompTIA Linux+ | Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) |
|---|---|---|
| Provider | CompTIA | Red Hat |
| Difficulty Level | Intermediate | Associate |
| Exam Duration | 90 minutes | 2.5 hours |
| Exam Cost | $358 USD | $450 USD |
| Exam Format | Multiple choice + performance-based | Performance-based (hands-on) |
| Prerequisites | A+ and Network+ recommended | None |
| Validity Period | 3 years | 3 years |
| Ideal For | Entry-level Linux admins | RHEL system administrators |
| Salary Range | $70,000 - $100,000 | $85,000 - $120,000 |
What Each Certification Covers
Key topics and domains covered in each exam
CompTIA Linux+ Focus Areas
- System Configuration
- Scripting
- Security
- Networking
- Storage
Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) Focus Areas
- RHEL Administration
- Storage
- Users
- Services
- Containers
Our Recommendation
Linux+ is vendor-neutral theory; RHCSA is RHEL-specific hands-on.
Choose CompTIA Linux+
Choose Linux+ for vendor-neutral Linux knowledge validation.
Choose Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)
Choose RHCSA for hands-on RHEL administration expertise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: CompTIA Linux+ or Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)?
Linux+ is vendor-neutral theory; RHCSA is RHEL-specific hands-on.
What are the salary differences between CompTIA Linux+?
CompTIA Linux+ typically offers salaries around $70,000 - $100,000, while Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) offers $85,000 - $120,000.
Which certification should I get first?
Choose Linux+ for vendor-neutral Linux knowledge validation. Choose RHCSA for hands-on RHEL administration expertise.
How long does it take to prepare for these certifications?
Preparation time varies based on experience. Most candidates spend 4-12 weeks studying, depending on their background and the certification difficulty level.
Ready to Get Certified?
Start your certification journey with our free practice exams and study guides