How to Earn LPI Certification: Everything You Need to Know!

Having a certification in some area of expertise is a differentiator in the technology market. In the Linux universe, the main existing certification is LPI.

This is a Linux certification developed and organized by the Linux Professional Institute – LPI, which is headquartered in California, United States.

LPI certificates are internationally recognized by various institutions and companies. 

Having one of these on your resume can make recruiters prioritize you in selection processes, and for this reason, many developers seek to obtain the certificate.

In this article, we will explain everything about this document, as well as how to obtain LPI certification. Happy reading!

Linux Professional Institute - Meet LPI

LPI certification was developed by the Linux Professional Institute, a nonprofit organization that holds significant authority in the developer market.

It's no coincidence that LPI certification is the most sought after by Information Technology professionals who want to prove their knowledge of the Linux operating system.

LPI certification shows that a worker is qualified for the job market. And the best part, one of the largest Linux institutions in existence is the one confirming this. 

LPI stands out for offering 4 certification levels, aimed at a wide range of professional profiles, including administrators, analysts, and developers.

Currently, you can obtain the following LPI certifications:

• LPI Essentials;
• LPIC-1;
• LPIC-2;
• LPIC-3.

A particularly special characteristic of LPI is that its certificates are designed to maintain distribution neutrality.

This is because LPI certificates work with the Linux Standard Base, which includes various standards compatible with different versions of the system.

That way, LPI certification is not limited to any distribution.

Also understand the importance of having LPI certification

Having an LPI certification is important to provide proof that you actually master Linux at some level.

This makes it easier to demonstrate your knowledge level and be selected for job opportunities.

Certificates are obtained through exams, which demonstrates your technical proficiency.

Because of this, certifications can even be more relevant to the job than a college degree, as practical aspects are not always taught.

Ultimately, a professional with a certification of this caliber stands out among others.

Advantages of obtaining LPI certification

The main advantage of obtaining LPI certification is undoubtedly the relevance in the Information Technology market.

However, why should LPI certification be the one chosen?

First, it's important to reinforce that the Linux Professional Institute is the most well-known and sought-after organizer for those working with the Linux operating system.

It is built by a group of professionals in the field, as well as volunteers, vendors, and educators.

And don't be fooled, the exams are quite challenging. For this reason, recruiters know that if you managed to pass, it's because you really know your stuff. 

In a practical example, it's as if you were recognized by McDonald's as someone who knows how to make good sandwiches. 

LPIC-1 Certification

LPIC-1 certification is considered the first at the professional level. Upon receiving this certificate, you have proof that you can perform tasks such as:

• Command line maintenance tasks;
• Installation and configuration of a computer with Linux;
• Basic network configuration. 

The exams can still be taken without any prerequisites, and in several languages, such as English, Brazilian Portuguese, Italian, German, Spanish, Chinese, and Japanese.

Knowledge required to obtain LPIC-1 certification

Various topics will be present in the LPIC-1 certification exams. To take the exam, you need to know the following:

• Know the system architecture;
• Install and use a workstation, as well as X11;
• Configure as a network client;
• Know the command line, including GNU and Unix commands;
• Understand file manipulation, permissions, and security;
• Perform simple maintenance;
• Assist other users;
• Perform backup, restoration, reboot, and shutdown. 

Because of this, it is necessary to study before taking an exam like this. After all, there is an investment behind all of this. But, do you know where to study?

Discover the best preparatory course for LPIC-1 exams

Preparatory courses are a great option for those who don't know where to start studying. 

The LPIC-1 Linux Course is your best option when analyzing all the services offered.

In 83 lessons, with 20 hours of duration, it will be possible to follow the most updated topics for the fifth and final version of the course.

In addition to theoretical classes, the course offered by Certificação Linux makes extensive use of practice. Simulations and use of the operating system are carried out, with real everyday questions.

Best of all, course students get a 15% discount on the LPI exam fee. 

To learn more about the best preparatory course for LPIC-1 certification, click here!

Discover the best preparatory book for LPIC-1

Books are also great allies in studying for LPIC-1 Linux certification. 

There is a book that offers the best content for studying the LPI exam, in a simplified and accessible language.

Called "Certificação Linux LPIC-1 Administrator", the book was produced by Professor Uirá Ribeiro, who holds a degree in data processing, a master's in distributed systems, and is a Linux specialist.

To learn more about the book and make a real investment, just click this link.

LPIC 2 Certification

LPIC-2 is the second certification for Linux professionals, according to the LPI roadmap.

After taking the exam and receiving your certificate, you qualify to administer mixed medium-sized networks.

The only prerequisite is to have an active LPIC-1 certification. Additionally, you need to be up to date with the main topics covered.

Required knowledge to obtain LPIC 2 certification

If you're wondering how to get LPIC-2 certification, I can tell you that you'll need a substantial knowledge base. Below, we've compiled a list of the main topics covered:

• Advanced system administration and execution;
• Perform advanced block storage and file system management, in addition to advanced networking and security, such as firewalls and VPNs;
• Install and configure network services, such as DNS, SSH, servers, and others;
• Understand access permissions and security;
• Guide users.

If you understand all the topics mentioned, it's time to advance and earn your LPIC-2 certification. Otherwise, there's still time to study!

Meet the best prep course for LPIC 2 exams

Have you thought about taking a prep course that offers 86 lessons, with 16 hours of duration and updated content for the newest version of the exam, 4.5?

This is possible with the Certificação Linux course. The LPIC-2 Linux Course is the most complete on the market, as it includes both theoretical and practical study.

Students receive updated practice questions and also get 200 monthly hours of server for training.

To learn more about the best prep course for LPIC-2 certification, click here!

How to take the LPI exam? Learn about the in-person exam

LPI's in-person exams are divided into two: Paper-based tests (PBT) and electronic tests (CBT, Computer Based Tests).

Paper-based tests are quite similar to college entrance exams or competitive exams. They are usually held at software events, as there is a large number of interested people.

However, paper-based tests are not the main option of the exam board. They are administered in locations where electronic testing is not possible.

Grading is done by World LPI, headquartered in the United States. No Brazilian affiliate has any internal contact with the exams.

Exam results are sent via email, around 15 to 30 days after the exam is taken.

How to take the LPI exam? Learn about the electronic exam

Electronic exams are administered at Pearson VUE testing centers, the world's largest learning company.

Usually, schedules and locations are made available, and each candidate has the right to choose the best option.

The advantage of this type of exam is that the result is available immediately after completing the exam.

In this link, you can learn more about how to find available locations for electronic and paper exams.

Keep in mind that Certificação Linux course students get a 15% discount on Pearson VUE exams. Complete and didactic courses for you!

Conclusion

This content aimed to answer the main questions about LPI certifications. It was possible to understand its relevance to the job market, as well as some study solutions.

If you enjoyed this article, we also recommend the following reading: "Linux Firewall: What is it? What are the best options?".