Linux

Linux is a computer operating system similar to Windows, iOS, and Mac OS, and is likewise one of the most popular. The Linux operating system originated in the 1990s, and now has a global user-base. In fact, the computer or smartphone you’re likely reading this from (if you have an Android) bases itself on Linux. From smartphones, to cars, thermostats, streaming devices, home appliances, and much more – the Linux operating system is practically everywhere. It actually maintains most of the Internet itself, including all of the world’s stock exchanges and supercomputers.

Linux is known for its reliability and security, which is why it is the preferred platform to run applications, desktops, and servers.

Learning Linux can open up a whole new world of career opportunities and growth. As one of the most popular operating systems globally, having Linux skills is in high demand across various industries. If you're proficient in Linux, you could find yourself working in system administration, network engineering, cybersecurity, and other exciting fields. Employers value those who know their way around Linux because it's reliable, secure, and flexible, which are all huge advantages in today's tech job market. Whether you're just starting out or looking to move up the career ladder, mastering Linux can significantly enhance your professional prospects.

Before diving into Linux, having a basic understanding of the following technical skills can be beneficial:

• Command Line Basics

  Familiarity with basic command line operations will help you navigate Linux more efficiently.

• File Permissions

  Understanding how Linux handles file and directory permissions is important for security and system management.

• Text Editing

  Basic knowledge of text editors like vim or nano can help you edit configuration files.

• Networking Basics

  Grasping networking concepts such as IP addresses, DNS, and subnetting can help in Linux system configuration.

• Scripting

  Understanding basic scripting (like Bash scripting) will allow you to automate tasks and manage systems more efficiently.

• Virtualization

  Familiarity with virtualization tools like VirtualBox or Docker is valuable for testing and running Linux environments.

• Security Concepts

  Understanding Linux security concepts such as firewalls and encryption is key for safe system management.

• Package Management

  Knowing how to install, update, and remove software packages using tools like APT or YUM is essential.

• Basic System Administration

  Basic knowledge of system administration tasks like user management, process monitoring, and logging is helpful.

While these skills are not mandatory prerequisites for learning Linux, having a basic understanding of them can make your Linux learning journey smoother and more enjoyable.

Linux skills can open up a wide range of job opportunities across various industries. Here are some types of jobs you can pursue with Linux expertise:

• System administration
• Network engineer
• Web developer
• Software engineer
• Linux engineer
• Senior Java developer
• Systems engineer
• DevOps engineer
• Mobile app developer
• Full stack developer
• Software architect

These are just a few examples, and there are many other career paths where Linux skills can be beneficial. As Linux continues to grow in popularity and usage, the demand for professionals with Linux expertise is expected to remain strong.

If you’ve used technology in the past 20 years, you shouldn’t have too many problems learning about the basics of Linux. Building a foundation in Linux only takes a few days, but the more advanced topics can take up to a lifetime to master.

Here are three recommended pathways that include Linux:

• Associate of Applied Science in Software Development
• Applied Bachelor’s Degree in Software Development – Web Development Concentration
• Applied Bachelor’s Degree in Software Development – Mobile App Development Concentration

The career outlook for Linux professionals continues to be quite promising. Linux is widely used in various industries, including technology, finance, healthcare, and government, among others. As more organizations embrace open-source technologies and cloud computing, the demand for skilled Linux professionals is expected to remain strong.