RHCSA vs Linux+
Compare Red Hat RHCSA and CompTIA Linux+ certifications. Vendor-specific vs vendor-neutral Linux certification.
Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)
Red Hat
CompTIA Linux+
CompTIA
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Compare all aspects of these certifications side by side
| Feature | Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) | CompTIA Linux+ |
|---|---|---|
| Provider | Red Hat | CompTIA |
| Difficulty Level | Associate | Foundational |
| Exam Duration | 2.5 hours | 90 minutes |
| Exam Cost | $400 USD | $358 USD |
| Exam Format | Performance-based (hands-on) | Multiple choice, performance-based |
| Prerequisites | None | A+ and 12 months experience |
| Validity Period | 3 years | 3 years |
| Ideal For | Linux admins in Red Hat environments | Vendor-neutral Linux administrators |
| Salary Range | $85,000 - $120,000 | $65,000 - $95,000 |
What Each Certification Covers
Key topics and domains covered in each exam
Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) Focus Areas
- RHEL Administration
- Storage
- Networking
- Users
- Security
- Containers
CompTIA Linux+ Focus Areas
- System Configuration
- Scripting
- Security
- Troubleshooting
- Virtualization
Our Recommendation
RHCSA is harder and more respected but Red Hat-specific; Linux+ is easier and vendor-neutral.
Choose Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)
Choose RHCSA for enterprise environments and higher earning potential.
Choose CompTIA Linux+
Choose Linux+ for vendor-neutral skills or as preparation for RHCSA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) or CompTIA Linux+?
RHCSA is harder and more respected but Red Hat-specific; Linux+ is easier and vendor-neutral.
What are the salary differences between Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)?
Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) typically offers salaries around $85,000 - $120,000, while CompTIA Linux+ offers $65,000 - $95,000.
Which certification should I get first?
Choose RHCSA for enterprise environments and higher earning potential. Choose Linux+ for vendor-neutral skills or as preparation for RHCSA.
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