You might think Windows and Mac are the only relevant operating systems worth your attention. While it’s true that many companies prefer easy and recognizable operating software, Linux is still a popular platform among many specialists. Yet, having knowledge about Linux involves more than being familiar with this OS. It has many benefits and advantages that can enrich your future career.
Even if you study something completely different, you widen the scope of your expertise by learning Linux. It is a cost-effective, and programming-friendly platform that provides you with opportunities other OS cannot give you. Linux is the best to practice coding, learn about security and network, and learn the basics of operating system functions. Needless to say, it is an open source and free platform that can run on older hardware.
The best way to ensure your future career is to take your first steps in learning Linux while you’re still at college. You can easily navigate your courses and assignments with EssayPro help and succeed without sacrificing your grades. It’s crucial to have hands-on experience with as many tools as possible. Then, your resume will be outstanding even if you don’t have too much experience.
Why should you be studying Linux?
A big add-on to your skillset
You cannot be an IT specialist and stop learning once you land a job. That’s true for many careers – you are constantly learning something new. Even if you suspect you might not need some specific skill, you gain more from familiarizing yourself with it. So it’s better to be prepared for any unexpected turn in your career than wait till you are forced to learn it.
Knowing Linux can increase your chances of being a better professional regardless of your specialization. So whether you work as an admin, programmer, or network engineer, Linux is a big advantage.
Linux is an open-source software
An open-source platform means everyone can access the source code to modify and study it. It gives you more freedom in creating and editing applications. It also means that you can start your introduction tour at any time. It doesn’t require anything other than Linux itself.
Open-source also means a more elaborated community of tech savvies who can share their knowledge with you. Likewise, you can contribute to solving a persistent issue or creating something new.
Frequent software updates
Linux is famous for its constant development. Unlike other platforms that require waiting for patches and new elements, Linux is quick to provide you with solutions. It means you have a more efficient system without having to suffer from easily manageable problems.
Linux is a perfect option for students
As a student, you have a lot of things to take care of. With Linux, you don’t have to worry about buying a new laptop or upgrading your hardware. Linux runs on almost any older computer and laptop without causing any damage to it.
You can try out different distributions
Linux is a family of operating systems based on a kernel. Therefore, it has different distributions to offer you, to name a few: Ubuntu, OpenSUSE, and Debian. You can always test the OS without installation and check its possibilities. Each distribution is tailored for specific needs and provides necessary tools for aspiring IT specialists within several clicks.
Linux supports all programming languages
Linux offers students native libraries and programming functions that make your learning experience as seamless as possible. It’s also a perfect opportunity for developers who want to study IT service management processes.
Linux systems are stable and secure
Linux has fewer crashes and virus attacks, making it one of the most secure and stable systems out there. Thanks to frequent updates and reviews, the OS doesn’t slow down with time and addresses threats quickly. Linux also treats your privacy with more consideration. It doesn’t collect your consumer data and has fewer security leaks.
Linux is fun
Because it’s open-source, you can find anything and more in the program terminal. Linux offers a unique software native to the platform. It’s beneficial for students as they don’t overpay for free apps and extensions available at any time.
Didn’t find anything you needed? You can develop it yourself.
Where to study Linux?
You have several options for studying Linux without having to spend too much on courses. You can start with public community guides or try testing the waters alone. Even though it can take some time to memorize basic commands and other elements, Linux is easy to navigate and learn for beginners.
You can also sign up for programming courses. Certification as an addition to your degree is always a plus for young specialists. Here are some courses that might be helpful:
- Udemy’s Linux Mastery: Master the Linux Command Line by Ziyad Yehia and Internet of Things Academy. No previous experience is required. It is a quick introduction to core Linux tools and functions.
- Udemy’s Learn The Linux Command Line: Basic Commands by Adam Eubanks. A free introductory course to Linux commands.
- Educative.io Bash for Programmers. Another perfect course to overcome the fear of Linux terminals and commands.
- Coursera Open Source Software Development, Linux and Git Specialization by Jerry Cooperstein. A bit more advanced course for students who want to acquire a specialization certificate and ensure their future career in development.
What skills do you develop with Linux?
- Linux file systems management that allows you to ensure proper network configuration.
- With Linux, you learn the unique file system hierarchy and understand how files are stored.
- Disaster recovery allows you to restore and back up files in case of a system reboot.
- Network security and firewall protocols allow you to manage network traffic, routers, and other aspects of network management.
- Advanced understanding of various shells (BASH, ZSH, Python) and scripting languages (for example, Perl and Ruby).
- System monitoring and testing skills allow you to identify issues, prevent crashes, and manage upgrades effectively.
- Analytical and presentation skills are strengthened along with your Linux studying journey. It’s hard to imagine a specialist who doesn’t know how to access and present solutions for existing issues.
What potential career options can you explore with Linux?
Having Linux knowledge in your pocket opens doors to an endless list of top-notch positions. Many companies look for specialists who are excellent with Linux, regardless of whether they look for system administrators or developers. Moreover, HR managers prioritize specialists with Linux knowledge, so you can be sure to land a job you want.
Here’s a small list of positions you can apply for with base Linux knowledge:
- Security Engineers
- Technical Support
- Linux System Engineers
- DevOps Engineer
- Kernel Developers
- Device Drivers
- Application Developers
- Database Administrators
- Technical Support Specialists
- Kernel Developers
- Perl and Python Developers
- Technical Writers
Summing Up
Don’t hesitate to start studying Linux while you are in college. Studying Linux changes your career and opens more options and possibilities for professional development. Not to mention higher salaries and more perks compared to specialists with no Linux knowledge.
After all, Linux is proven to be an excellent tool for any web developer and administrator who values their time and skills.