Why Learning Linux or Windows is the First Step to Landing Your Dream Cloud Engineering Job
Broadus Palmer
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Linux or Windows?
If you are thinking about getting into Cloud Engineering, trust me, learning Linux or Windows is a great place to start.
Both are operating systems that are extremely important for what you're going to learn and how you'll solve problems in this industry.
Knowing one or both can open up a lot of opportunities for you to land a job in tech. In this guide, I'll go over where you should start, and what you need to learn, and I'll share the resources and gems that'll help you get going. ????
My Experience Starting with Cloud ??
When I first started learning cloud, I was told to start with Linux.
However, I thought that learning Linux was just something that would slow me down and get in the way of fast-tracking my cloud career.
And some of you might feel that way right now—you might be thinking, "I just need to get my certification; all this other stuff is just getting in the way of actually working in the cloud."
The reality is that Linux is the foundation for learning the cloud, for me and for you as well.
It wasn't until I realized that I couldn't bootstrap instances or work in the command line for some AWS services that I understood how important Linux was.
I didn't realize how big of a part Linux played in the cloud because cloud computing is really just a bunch of servers, and Linux helps manage those servers.
So, if you're reading this and getting value from my story, just know that these stepping stones, like learning the services outside of the cloud certifications, are the key to building your skills and becoming a cloud engineer.
Don't make the mistakes I did.
Save yourself some time, read this article, and get all the value you can from it! ??
Why Learning Linux or Windows Is Important ??
Learning Linux or Windows is crucial if you want a career in technology in general.
Whether you're working in help desk, system admin, or cloud engineering, you're going to use these operating systems to solve a lot of problems.
But don't just take my word for it, here are more reasons why learning these operating systems is a good idea for you:
Our Linux coach, Carl Hayes , says:
"The barrier of entry is low, as you can find plenty of informative videos on the use of Linux, and how to get started. After getting started, the source of truth should be the system itself. Commands like man, info, and apropos are always good sources of truth."
Choosing Between Linux and Windows ?????
So, what do you need to understand about these systems?
Windows is more common for business, enterprise, and home use.
A lot of companies use Windows, and you’ve probably seen this in any job you’ve had before.
Growing up, many of us got our first laptop or computer with Windows (unless we had a Mac). Windows is everywhere, and it’s great if you want to get into IT support, networking, or desktop help desk roles.
Linux, however, is open source, highly customizable, and used a lot in servers and cloud environments.
It gives you more control, and it's great for those who want to build IT infrastructure or work in cloud engineering, DevOps, or cybersecurity.
If you’re aiming for one of those areas, Linux is the most widely used operating system. So, learning Linux will be a major advantage.
What to Learn for Linux ??
Listen, Linux can be challenging at first. I just had a live event with a successful candidate who transitioned to cloud engineering, and he said he thought Linux was like "The Matrix" because of all the commands, packages, and information it generates.
Here are the key areas to focus on:
1. Understanding Linux Distributions
Linux has different versions called distributions (distros), and each is made for different needs. Popular distros for beginners include Centos,?Ubuntu, Debian, and Fedora. Start by learning how to install and use these.
? Real-World Application: Setting Up a Home Server ??
A great way to learn Linux is by setting up a simple home server using Ubuntu or you can try any other flavor.
You can create a media server (using Plex) or personal cloud storage (using Nextcloud). This will help you learn how servers work in the real world. Or you can just simply install Linux on an old laptop and start using it!
2. The Command Line Interface (CLI) ???
Most of Linux's power is in the command line. Learn basic commands like ls, cd, cp, mv, and grep. Knowing how to move through files, manage them, and change settings is very important.
? Real-World Application: Automating Tasks with Cron Jobs ??
Once you're comfortable with commands, try automating tasks using cron jobs. For example, you could schedule a backup to run automatically, which is useful in managing servers.
3. File Management and Permissions ??
Linux uses a system to manage who can access files and folders. Learn how to change file permissions using chmod and understand user roles.
? Real-World Application: Setting Up User Accounts ??
Try setting up multiple users and giving them different permissions. This is important when managing servers to keep everything secure.
4. Basic Scripting ??
Bash scripting is a big part of Linux. It helps you automate repetitive tasks and create your own commands.
? Real-World Application: Writing Backup Scripts ??
Write a Bash script that automatically backs up important files. This will help you understand scripting and how it’s used in real life.
What to Learn for Windows ???
Windows is user-friendly, but there are still key skills to learn if you want to work in IT. Here are the main areas to focus on:
1. Navigating the Windows GUI and Control Panel
Learn the basics of Windows navigation, including settings, file explorer, and control panel. This will be the foundation for more advanced tasks.
? Real-World Application: Troubleshooting System Issues ???
Learn how to identify and solve common system issues, like connectivity problems or software errors, using the Windows Control Panel and Task Manager.
2. Command Prompt and PowerShell ??
Windows has powerful command-line tools like Command Prompt and PowerShell. Start with basic commands (ipconfig, ping, dir) and then move on to PowerShell for more advanced automation.
Screenshot: Windows Command Prompt ???
? Real-World Application: Automating User Account Creation ??????
Use PowerShell to create multiple user accounts. This shows how automation can save time and reduce errors. This can be the nugget to help you get the aha moment out of using PowerShell!?
3. Windows Networking ??
Networking is an important part of any IT job. Learn how to connect Windows to networks, understand IP addresses, and solve network issues.
Real-World Application: Setting Up a Home Network ??
Set up a home network with multiple Windows devices to get practical experience in network configuration.
4. System Administration ??
Learn how to manage users, set up groups, use Active Directory, and update software. These skills are essential for IT support roles.
Learning Strategies ??
Cheat Sheet Downloads
To help you on your journey, here are some quick reference cheat sheets for both Linux and Windows:
Leave with this!?
Whether you choose to learn Linux or Windows, both paths will lead you to valuable skills that will serve you well in your career. Don't be like me and skip this...
Start with the basics, practice consistently, and use the many learning resources available online.
Remember, IT is all about continuous learning, the more comfortable you get with these operating systems, the more opportunities will open up for you.?
Trust the process. I promise this gets easier!?
Systems & Network Administrator
2 周I know both, but prefer... ????????
Cybersecurity Analyst | IT Support Engineer | Google CS certified
2 周Very informative and helpful
Technical Advisor at Arete specializing in Cyber Security
1 个月Toney Pennyamon Great guy to follow!
Informative and helpful. Thanks