Simulate Real World Server Environment
With dozens of Linux distributions available, choosing the right one for learning Linux or prepping for certification exams like LFCS, RHCSA, or Linux+ can be overwhelming. Some distros are built for stability, others for bleeding-edge features, and some strike a perfect balance for beginners and sysadmins alike.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best Linux distros to learn on in 2025—whether you’re brand new to Linux or looking to simulate a real-world server environment for your certification prep.
What Makes a Good Learning Distro?
- ✅ Stable and well-documented
- ✅ Actively maintained and secure
- ✅ Large community support
- ✅ Similar to what you’ll use on the exam
- ✅ Beginner-friendly CLI and package managers
Best Distros by Certification Track
🔧 For LFCS & Linux Foundation Exams
✅ Ubuntu Server LTS
- Based on Debian
- APT package manager
- Cloud and DevOps friendly
- Available as desktop or minimal install
- Download Ubuntu Server
✅ Debian Stable
- Clean and minimal
- Great for understanding Linux internals
- Very stable with long release cycles
- Download Debian
🧪 For RHCSA & Red Hat-Based Training
✅ Rocky Linux
- Community-driven RHEL clone
- YUM/DNF package manager
- Matches RHCSA exam layout closely
- Download Rocky Linux
✅ AlmaLinux
- Another RHEL-compatible distro
- Strong support for enterprise scenarios
- Alternative to CentOS after its shift
- Download AlmaLinux
🧠 For Linux+ and General Learning
✅ Fedora Workstation
- Cutting-edge but stable
- Backed by Red Hat
- GNOME desktop and solid developer tools
- Download Fedora
✅ Linux Mint
- Based on Ubuntu LTS
- Ideal for complete beginners
- Elegant desktop experience + CLI learning
- Download Linux Mint
Distro Comparison Table
| Distro | Ideal For | Package Manager | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ubuntu Server | LFCS, Linux+ | APT | Easy |
| Rocky Linux | RHCSA | DNF/YUM | Medium |
| Debian | LFCS, Linux+ | APT | Medium |
| Fedora | Linux+ | DNF | Medium |
| Linux Mint | Beginners | APT | Very Easy |
| AlmaLinux | RHCSA | DNF/YUM | Medium |
Pro Tips for Practicing
- ✅ Always use the CLI even on GUI-enabled distros
- ✅ Practice installing and removing packages
- ✅ Test service management with
systemctl - ✅ Learn file permissions, users, and groups
- ✅ Create snapshots in VirtualBox before breaking things
Recommended Resources
- 📘 The Linux Command Line by William Shotts
- 💡 DistroChooser – Helps you find the best distro for your needs
- 🧪 Linux Foundation Training Portal
- 📦 OSBoxes – Pre-built VM images for common distros
Internal Links
External Links
FAQ
Which Linux distro is best for beginners?
Linux Mint and Ubuntu are both excellent beginner options with strong community support.
Should I use a GUI or stick to the CLI?
For certification prep, use the CLI as much as possible—it’s what you’ll use on the exam.
Can I run multiple distros in a lab?
Yes. Use VirtualBox or VMware to run different distros side-by-side for comparison.
Is Ubuntu good for LFCS prep?
Absolutely. It’s widely supported, easy to use, and aligned with Linux Foundation objectives.
Call to Action
🧑💻 Pick your distro and start learning Linux today!
📘 Grab The Linux Command Line to level up your CLI skills.
🎓 Sign up for certification training at the Linux Foundation.
