EXAM CODES XK0-005
CompTIA Linux+ validates the competencies required of an early career systems administrator supporting Linux systems.
The Only Job-Focused Linux Certification
Covers the latest foundational skills demanded by hiring managers.
Gain Hands-On Linux Skills
Performance-based and multiple choice questions prove you can think on your feet.
Build Foundational Knowledge
Learn all major distributions of Linux, setting the foundation for vendor/distro-specific knowledge.
We are excited to invite you to take the discounted ($50 + tax) beta exam for the next version of Linux+. Visit the Pearson VUE CompTIA site to register for the beta exam XK1-006 and take it by January 30, 2025. Due to beta exam scoring processes, participants will not know whether they passed/earned the certification until the final release date in July 2025.
Configure and manage software, storage, processes and services
Understand best practices for permissions and authentication, firewalls, and file management
Create simple shell scripts and execute basic BASH scripts, version control using Git and orchestration processes
Analyze system properties and processes and troubleshoot user, application and hardware issues
| Exam Codes | XK0-005 |
| Launch Date | July 12, 2022 |
| Exam Description | CompTIA Linux+ covers an evolving job role that focuses more on how Linux powers the cloud. The exam includes cutting edge technologies that help automate and orchestrate business processes, including infrastructure as code and containers. |
| Number of Questions | Maximum of 90 questions |
| Type of Questions | Multiple-choice and performance-based |
| Length of Test | 90 Minutes |
| Passing Score | 720 (on a scale of 100 to 900) |
| Recommended Experience | 12 months of hands-on experience working with Linux servers. CompTIA A+, Network+ and Server+ recommended. |
| Languages | English, Japanese, Portuguese and Spanish |
| Retirement | TBD - Usually three years after launch |
| Testing Provider | Pearson VUE |
| Price | $348 USD (See all pricing) |
 | LPIC-1 from LPA | Red Hat Certified Systems Administrator (RHCSA) | Linux Foundations LFCS | |
| Performance-based Questions | Yes | No | Only tests tools, does not cover knowledge of broader topics | Only tests tools, does not cover knowledge of broader topics |
| Exam Length | 1 exam with a maximum of 90 questions, 90 minutes | 2 exams | 10-15 hands-on assignments; 2 1⁄2 hours | 2 hours |
| Experience Level | 12 months as a junior Linux engineer | Early career | High-level Red Hat sys admin experience. Very hard to pass without significant hands-on experience and is recommended for advanced Linux professionals | Linux system administrators early in their career |
| Exam Focus | Focuses on the latest technology and trends for IT professionals in an enterprise environment, covers all major distributions of Linux and recognized in job ads | Does not focus on working in an enterprise environment, therefore not all items are relevant or up-to-date for IT professionals | Covers only Red Hat systems, as a 100% performance-based exam, it is difficult to study for | Limited to Ubuntu/CentOS, content is all task-based |
| Pre-requisites | Recommended CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+ and 12 months as a junior Linux engineer | None | Recommended Red Hat sys admin experience; though not a pre-requisite, Linux+ makes an excellent “ramp-up” to this certification | None |
Keep your certification up to date with CompTIA’s Continuing Education (CE) program. It’s designed to be a continued validation of your expertise and a tool to expand your skill set. It’s also the ace up your sleeve when you’re ready to take the next step in your career.
Get the most out of your certification
Information technology is an incredibly dynamic field, creating new opportunities and challenges every day. Participating in our Continuing Education program will enable you to stay current with new and evolving technologies and remain a sought-after IT and security expert.
The CompTIA Continuing Education program
Your CompTIA Linux+ certification is good for three years from the date of your exam. The CE program allows you to extend your certification in three-year intervals through activities and training that relate to the content of your certification.
It’s easy to renew
You can participate in a number of activities and training programs, including higher certifications, to renew your CompTIA Linux+ certification. Collect at least 50 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in three years and upload them to your certification account, and your CompTIA Linux+ certification will automatically renew.
Want more details? Learn more about the CompTIA Continuing Education program.
Linux+ can be renewed