Hey there! I'm a total newcomer to the field without any industry experience. I have a background in electrical engineering and have recently made up my mind to dive into Linux system administration. Right now, I'm teaching myself Linux and Bash scripting, but I'm feeling a bit lost. I'm uncertain about the next steps to take in my learning, and I don't have anyone to guide me through this process. For those who've made a similar transition into Linux sysadmin roles without a CS degree, what advice do you have? What skills should I prioritize next after getting the basics down? Are there any practical projects or experiences you recommend that could help? I'd really appreciate any suggestions or resources to point me in the right direction. Thanks in advance!
4 Answers
You don’t necessarily need a degree in Computer Science; many don't have one in IT and have succeeded. That being said, having a background helps, but what matters is your determination and practical experience. Try to find entry-level positions, even if they're not directly Linux-focused, like in tech support. Expanding your skillset is important, so focus on networking basics as well.
I started in help desk too, and it offered such great insight into IT as a whole!
Yes, you can definitely break into Linux administration. Start by getting certifications like RHCE and gathering experience through personal projects. Tinker with setting up servers and hosting applications; create your own home lab environment and play around with stuff. Employers appreciate initiative and hands-on experience.
Hands-on experience is a game changer. The more you tinker, the more confident you'll become!
I did exactly that, and it worked wonders for me! Good luck!
Begin with practical projects. Set up Proxmox or VirtualBox and create virtual machines to practice your skills. Learn basic commands in vi, set up web servers like Apache or Nginx, and automate tasks with Ansible. These experiences will help you gain confidence and showcase your abilities to future employers.
Yeah, learning to manage those projects really helps solidify what you’ve learned!
Solid advice! I started my journey the same way and it laid a great foundation for my career.
Absolutely, you can become a Linux admin without a CS degree! It's more about proving your skills and determination. Many people have started at help desk roles and worked their way up. Get some basic certifications like Linux+ or RHCSA. Getting hands-on experience is key, so try to set up a home lab to practice what you learn.
Exactly! Those certifications can make a huge difference in getting your foot in the door.
Totally agree, building that foundation through a help desk role can really help you advance!
That makes sense! I think a broad knowledge will definitely help in interviews.