CompTIA Linux+ credential artwork

CompTIA Linux+ (XK0-006)

Validates knowledge of Linux system management, services and users, security, automation and scripting, and troubleshooting.

Summary

CompTIA Linux+ is a vendor-neutral certification for configuring, securing, automating and troubleshooting Linux systems. It expects hands-on command-line skill, not only definitions, so it shows you can work on real Linux servers rather than recall terms.

Good fit if

  • You use Linux regularly and want proof of administration skills
  • You work with Linux servers in sysadmin, cloud or DevOps
  • You are following CompTIA's path after A+ or Network+

Look elsewhere if

  • You have never used a Linux terminal: A+
  • You are targeting Red Hat environments: RHCSA
  • You mainly want cloud infrastructure skills: Cloud+

Salary & jobs

Prerequisites

No required prerequisites.

A+, Network+ or Server+ knowledge

Recommended

The hardware, networking and server fundamentals that Linux+ builds on.

12 months of hands-on Linux server experience

Recommended

Regular work configuring and managing Linux servers.

Cost

USD · US pricing
$399
A voucher with one retake (Retake Assurance) costs $519. Vouchers are valid for 12 months from purchase.

What holders say

Certification path

CompTIA recommends A+ or Network+ before Linux+.

CompTIA A+ credential artwork
A+IT support fundamentals
CompTIA Network+ credential artwork
Network+Networking fundamentals
This certification
CompTIA Linux+ credential artwork
Linux+Linux administration

Renewal

Linux+ is valid for 3 years from the day you pass.

Validity
3 years
Renewal requirement
50 CEUs per cycle
Renewal fee
$150 USD

The $150 fee covers the whole three-year cycle. You pay no fee if you renew with CertMaster CE or by earning a qualifying higher CompTIA certification such as Cloud+. Passing Linux+ also renews A+.

CompTIA continuing education fees ↗

Alternatives

Red Hat Certified System Administrator credential artwork
RHCSA$500 required · Intermediate

Hands-on Red Hat exam performed on live systems, and the credential Red Hat employers name.

CompTIA Cloud+ credential artwork
Cloud+$399 required · Intermediate

Better fit if your goal is cloud infrastructure rather than Linux administration.

Certified Kubernetes Administrator credential artwork
CKA$445 required · Intermediate

Better fit if your goal is Kubernetes and container orchestration.

FAQ

Is Linux+ hard?

Candidates describe it as harder than A+, Network+ and Security+ without hands-on experience. Many questions show command output, logs or configuration files and ask what they mean or what to do next.

Do I need A+ or Network+ before Linux+?

No. CompTIA recommends A+, Network+ or Server+ knowledge and about 12 months of Linux server experience, but you can book Linux+ directly.

Can I still take XK0-005?

No. XK0-005 retired on January 13, 2026. XK0-006 is the only Linux+ exam.

Linux+ or RHCSA: which should I take?

Linux+ is a multiple-choice and performance-based exam covering several distributions. RHCSA is fully hands-on on Red Hat Enterprise Linux and is the one Red Hat-focused employers ask for.

How long is Linux+ valid?

Three years. Renew with 50 CEUs and the CE fee, or by earning a qualifying higher CompTIA certification such as Cloud+.

Last updated October 2026