📘 CompTIA Linux+ (XK0-005) Exam Overview and Study Objectives
The CompTIA Linux+ certification (XK0-005) is designed for early-career Linux administrators. This exam validates the essential skills needed to manage, secure, and troubleshoot Linux systems in a professional environment.
🧾 Exam Overview
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Code | XK0-005 |
| Launch Date | July 12, 2022 |
| Format | Multiple-choice and performance-based |
| Max Questions | 90 |
| Time Limit | 90 minutes |
| Passing Score | 720 (on a scale of 100–900) |
| Recommended Experience | 1 year of hands-on Linux admin experience; familiarity with A+, Net+, or Server+ |
| Languages Available | English, Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish |
| Test Provider | Pearson VUE |
📚 Domains & Objective Breakdown
1. System Management (32%)
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Understand Linux fundamentals and the Filesystem Hierarchy Standard (FHS)
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Manage files, directories, and permissions
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Configure local storage and partitions
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Build and install software from source
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Use services and process management tools
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Network configuration and troubleshooting
2. Security (21%)
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Implement security best practices and access control
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Identity and user management
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Firewall configuration (e.g.,
firewalld,iptables) -
Secure remote management (e.g., SSH)
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File integrity, auditing, and hardening practices
3. Scripting, Containers, and Automation (19%)
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Create and run shell scripts for task automation
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Basic container usage and management (e.g., Docker)
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Git basics for version control
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Infrastructure-as-Code concepts
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Understand orchestration tools and container lifecycle
4. Troubleshooting (28%)
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Diagnose and fix:
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Storage issues (mounts, space, permissions)
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Network problems (DNS, IP config, services)
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CPU and memory bottlenecks
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User access or file permission issues
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Use tools like
top,htop,journalctl, andsystemctlfor diagnostics
📥 Official Objectives PDF
You can download the official exam objectives directly from CompTIA:
🔗 CompTIA Linux+ XK0-005 Objectives (PDF)