The Differences: LFCS vs CompTIA Linux+

Trying to decide between the Linux Foundation Certified System Administrator (LFCS) and CompTIA Linux+ certifications?

You’re not alone. Both are respected Linux certs, but they cater to slightly different audiences and career goals. In this guide, we’ll break down LFCS vs Linux+ so you can choose the best fit for your experience, learning style, and job targets.

Quick Overview: LFCS vs Linux+

Feature	LFCS	CompTIA Linux+
Provider	Linux Foundation	CompTIA
Cost	$395 (includes 1 retake)	$358
Exam Type	Performance-based, hands-on	Multiple choice + performance-based
Difficulty	Moderate	Beginner to intermediate
Target Audience	Sysadmins, DevOps, cloud engineers	IT support, entry-level Linux admins
Validity	3 years	Does not expire

What is LFCS?

The Linux Foundation Certified System Administrator (LFCS) is a performance-based exam that tests your real-world ability to manage Linux systems from the command line.

You’ll be tested on:

User and group management
Filesystem and storage
Networking and firewalls
Service and process management
Basic shell scripting

✅ Best for those pursuing sysadmin, cloud, or DevOps careers.

Learn more about LFCS

What is CompTIA Linux+?

Linux+ is a more traditional certification designed to validate foundational Linux skills, including command-line basics, security, and system management. It’s vendor-neutral and often accepted in corporate environments.

You’ll be tested on:

Linux commands and scripting basics
File and process management
Security configurations
System and user management
Troubleshooting and automation

✅ Great for IT professionals transitioning into Linux roles.

Learn more about Linux+

Key Differences: LFCS vs Linux+

1. Hands-On vs Theory-Based Testing

LFCS uses a live Linux system for real tasks. You’ll actually run commands.
Linux+ includes a mix of multiple choice and simulations. Less hands-on, more theoretical.

2. Exam Delivery

LFCS is taken online and remotely proctored.
Linux+ can be taken at testing centers or online via Pearson VUE.

3. Certification Expiration

LFCS expires after 3 years.
Linux+ is valid for life (as of 2025), though many pros choose to renew anyway.

4. Recognition and Pathway

LFCS is part of the Linux Foundation’s path toward LFCE and Kubernetes (CKA/CKAD).
Linux+ is standalone but can lead into CompTIA Security+ or Cloud+.

Who Should Choose LFCS?

You should go with LFCS if:

You want to demonstrate hands-on skills
You’re aiming for DevOps, SRE, or Cloud Admin roles
You prefer practical problem-solving over multiple choice
You want a direct Linux career path toward LFCE, CKA, etc.

📘 Suggested Reading: How Linux Works, 3rd Edition

Who Should Choose Linux+?

You should go with Linux+ if:

You’re transitioning from Help Desk or general IT
You want a vendor-neutral cert that’s well-known in enterprises
You prefer traditional test formats
You’re pursuing other CompTIA certs (A+, Network+, Security+)

📘 Suggested Reading: CompTIA Linux+ Study Guide (Exam XK0-005)

🖥️ Also Consider: Linux Command Line Crash Course

Salary and Job Market Comparison

Job Title	With LFCS	With Linux+
Junior Linux Administrator	$60,000–$75,000	$55,000–$70,000
DevOps Engineer	$85,000–$120,000+	$70,000–$95,000
IT Support / Help Desk	Rarely required	Often required