A Linux sysadmin’s work can be described as dynamic, with responsibilities constantly changing. To strengthen their sysadmin skills, those in the field may opt for courses on major technologies like Kubernetes, containers, and automation. However, learning is more than simply improving these skills. Individuals who want to build a reputation for themselves as Linux sysadmins must acquire additional abilities. Here, we cover the necessary skills needed to secure and ace a career as a Linux sysadmin.
The fact that anyone can build a custom operating system upon the Linux kernel has led to the widespread use of the open-source OS in everything from mobile phones, cars and web servers to enterprise cloud servers. It has also led to an increasing demand for Linux systems administrators to install, configure and maintain them.Â
The average salaryOpens a new window range for a Linux system administrator is $78,199 to $110,771. So how can one make it big in this lucrative field? According to ZipRecruiterOpens a new window , by immediately “educating yourself about the duties, responsibilities and required skills of a Linux system administrator so that your resume will reflect your experience properly.â€Â
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Linux Sysadmin Roles & Responsibilities
Linux sysadmins are in charge of optimizing the Linux operating system’s performance. They set up, configure, and manage Linux servers and workstations, and the networks on which they run. Working collaboratively with network engineers, they analyze the requirements for the hardware and system and security tools to be installed.
Linux sysadmins oversee all server operations and troubleshoot tasks that support their organization’s business. They manage all Internet requests, including DNS, Apache, MySQL, RADIUS, and PHP. They also support LAN, ISP, and hosting clients, monitor error logs, and troubleshoot and respond to any issues. Sysadmins are also responsible for developing and overseeing all backup, replication, clustering and failover strategies. They must be able to respond to login issues and be prepared to perform disaster recovery when necessary.Â
With these responsibilities in mind, following are the skills needed to acquire to secure a career as a Linux sysadmin:
Linux skills
As the name implies, Linux system administration requires a thorough knowledge of Linux systems and services. However, there is no one Linux. Different open-source tools will use different versions of Linux, such as Red Hat or Ubuntu. Sysadmins need to be able to work with any Linux system, even one custom to one’s organization. Secondly, Linux systems work with various shells (for example, BASH, ZSH, Python) and scripting languages (such as Perl or Ruby). A Linux sysadmin should work effectively with any of them.Â
A Linux Sysadmin’s understanding of Linux basics must include installation, user account management, and the vi editor. Those interested in this role should try deploying Linux until they can configure the hardware’s internal functions independently. They should also be familiar with Linux file systems and the structure of file systems. Understanding which file systems Linux supports helps network administrators in configuring the network appropriately. They can use their knowledge of the file system structure to figure out where to save certain files.
Networking skills
Because organizations are increasingly relying on network virtualization, a sysadmin should be familiar with software-defined branch (SD-branch), wide-area networks (WANs), virtual local area networks (VLANs), secure access service edge (SASE) technologies, and virtual private networks ((VPNs). They should also be familiar with networking management basics involving network traffic packet capture, network routers and firewalls, hardware setup and troubleshooting.
Cloud technologies
Most of the companies are now running some, if not all, of their entire system infrastructure in the cloud. As a result, sysadmins need to be able to work with cloud solutions as well as configure, provision and customize cloud-based apps. Database management and web server administration are two crucial expertise for a sysadmin’s position in this sector.
Security skills
An important responsibility of Linux sysadmins is conducting routine security audits. While the position does not need the in-depth security expertise of a cybersecurity specialist, it does necessitate a fundamental understanding of security to recognize when a system is at risk and how to safeguard it in advance. Sysadmins need to continually keep abreast of the latest cybersecurity threats and solutions to identify any security vulnerability and deal with it accordingly.Â
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System monitoring skills
Effective administration requires continuous 24/7/365 monitoring. Sysadmins must work effectively with testing and monitoring systems, such as security information event management (SIEM) systems to identify issues, prevent downtime, discover bottlenecks and manage software and hardware upgrades.Â
Analytical skills
Solving problems on their own or collaborating with others is what sets successful sysadmins apart from the rest. For example, because Linux is an open-source OS, administrators need to be able to evaluate whether different programs will perform properly and are secure enough to install on an organization’s servers. With any infrastructural change, sysadmins need to quickly identify possible issues, analyze solutions to overcome them, and implement any agreed-upon changes. To keep one’s problem-solving skills up-to-date, sysadmins must keep learning through sysadmin forums, online courses, reading the latest industry periodicals and/or participating in a Linux User Group (LUG).Â
Interpersonal skills
As Linux is an open-source OS, sysadmins are frequently tasked with collaborating with other developers to adapt the operating system to fit specific business requirements. Sysadmins are also called upon to train technicians working under their supervision and train the system’s end-users in non-technical terms.Â
A sysadmin’s ability to give and receive information is essential. Whether face-to-face or through written documents, email or on the phone, sysadmins must be able to communicate what they do to both technical and non-technical staff.Â
Good communication also involves active listening skills, especially when it comes to problem-solving. A sysadmin must be a good listener to gather information from various sources both within and outside the organization.Â
Presentation skills
Sysadmins are often called upon to give presentations, run meetings or host events. Effective presentation and public speaking skills help explain problems and get one’s solutions across to others.
How long will it take to become proficient?
How long it will take to obtain the necessary skills to become a Linux System administrator depends on the current level of experience and education. Most companies look for a candidate with a computer science or related bachelor’s degree. Some employers also require master’s degrees. Many organizations also require a relevant Linux certification. To obtain both degrees will take about five to six years. Studying for a Linux certification, like the Linux Professional Institute, will take at least three months.
Additionally, prospective employers typically require at least two years of industry experience. Suppose a person is looking to obtain a senior-level position. In that case, he/she will need to have at least five to ten years of experience working as a Linux administrator and possess excellent supervision and communications skills.Â
Which particular skill do you think a Linux sysadmin must possess? Let us know on LinkedInOpens a new window , TwitterOpens a new window , or FacebookOpens a new window . We’d love to hear from you!Â