Learn Linux
The best way to learn Linux, ranked by what employers ask for
267 of 7,771 live roles ask for Linux. 9 courses and certificates compared: paid, free with a certificate, free, and trusted videos. The best free start is Relational Database (freeCodeCamp).
Live roles ask
267
3% of the board
Options compared
9
courses & certificates
Four ways to learn it
Linux, from certified programme to free video
The best option of each kind, ranked on how well-regarded it is, what it costs to finish with a certificate, and how squarely it teaches this. The ringed one is where most people should start. Sponsorship plays no part.
Linux
267 live roles ask for it
Linux Foundation
Useful, with trade-offs
freeCodeCamp
Useful, with trade-offs
Microsoft Learn
Useful, with trade-offs
freeCodeCamp.org
One of the strongest ways to learn Linux
Who asks for it
Where Linux is asked for
- Software engineering178 roles
- Security30 roles
- Data18 roles
- AI and machine learning4 roles
Roles
Jobs that list it
Everything else
More ways to learn Linux
Best first, with the verdict and what each costs.
- StartTake itCertified programmeGoogle Cybersecurity Professional Certificate
Coursera
Free to auditCertificate - StartTake itCertified programmeGoogle IT Support Professional Certificate
Coursera
Free to auditCertificate - WatchWorth consideringTrusted videoLinux Tutorial For Beginners | Complete Linux Course for DevOps
CodeWithHarry
FreeHindi2 h1.1M views - StartWorth consideringFree courseDeploy and administer Linux virtual machines on Azure
Microsoft Learn
Free5 h - Start
Often asked for together
Skills that come with Linux
Questions
Learning Linux
Is Linux worth learning?
267 of the 7,771 live roles on insiderOne ask for it (3%), most often in software engineering roles (178).
Can I learn Linux for free?
Yes. Relational Database from freeCodeCamp is free, and so is its certificate. Of the options compared here, it is the best one that costs nothing.
What is the best way to learn Linux?
For most people, Introduction to Linux – Full Course for Beginners (freeCodeCamp.org, free). It is ranked on how well-regarded it is, what it costs to finish with a certificate, and how squarely it teaches Linux. Sponsorship plays no part.
Your own plan
Linux is one skill. Which ones is your next role missing?
Tell insiderOne where you're headed and it reads the live board for the gaps between you and it, then ranks a way to learn each one for your budget. Free to start.
Counts from 7,771 live roles, updated 14 September 2026.