Hey folks! I'm planning to dive into DevOps and would love some honest insights from those of you already in the field.
1. What's the absolute best DevOps course for beginners? I'm looking at options like Udemy, Coursera, KodeKloud, Linux Academy, YouTube, etc.
2. Should I prioritize hands-on labs/projects first, or are certifications more important?
3. Most crucially, is DevOps still a valuable skill to learn in 2026 regarding job prospects, growth, and long-term career benefits?
For some context, I have a basic background in Linux, cloud, and scripting, and I'm looking for practical skills that lead to real opportunities. Any recommendations or tips for success would be awesome. Thanks a bunch!
5 Answers
Definitely worth it! There's a lot of demand for skills to help companies transition from on-premises to cloud. It's a booming area across the board, and I've seen it pay off for many.
Can you share any self-study materials that have been helpful for you?
Just a heads up, a lot of DevOps tasks are being automated by AI. It's essential to stay updated or skills could become outdated.
I prefer Azure DevOps over GitHub. A lot of companies using Microsoft products will value this knowledge, so it’s definitely useful to learn.
I think there are still tons of opportunities in DevOps. I've found that the roles are well-paid and continue to grow.
DevOps is absolutely worth learning! I suggest reading "The Phoenix Project" and its sequel. They provide great insights into best practices. For courses, I’ve had good experiences with Pluralsight—it’s user-friendly. Focus on the fundamentals first before diving into labs or certifications. Practical knowledge is key, especially if you’re aiming for management roles.
Awesome suggestions! Thanks, I’ll check those out.
There isn't a single 'best course' out there; everyone has their learning style. I find hands-on experience trumps certifications any day. If you enjoy the work, then it’s worth pursuing for you personally.

I can confirm this too! This career track has really helped me manage my mortgage payments.