If you’re looking to advance in Linux system administration or DevOps, chances are you’ve already encountered RHCSA vs RHCE. Both are highly respected Red Hat certification programs designed for IT professionals who want to master Red Hat Enterprise Linux.
But which one is the right certification for you?
Let’s break it down.
Why Red Hat certifications matter in IT and DevOps careers
Red Hat certifications stand out because they focus on hands-on training and real-life situations. Unlike vendor-neutral exams, Red Hat tests practical skills on a live network using Red Hat Linux. That means you’re not just memorizing facts, you’re showing practical knowledge in action.
You can maintain systems, configure file systems, secure Linux servers, and manage system resources in real time.
In DevOps and IT careers, certifications such as RHCSA and RHCE show employers you have the practical skills and automation knowledge required to succeed in Linux administration.
How RHCSA and RHCE are recognized globally
The RHCSA certification (Red Hat Certified System Administrator) and RHCE certification (Red Hat Certified Engineer) are recognized worldwide as proof of hands-on experience and foundational skills in Red Hat products.
Companies running Red Hat Enterprise Linux trust these certifications because they demonstrate that professionals possess adequate knowledge in:
- System administration
- Security
- Network services
- Automation knowledge
Linux professionals seeking more advanced certifications, such as the Red Hat Certified Architect, RHCSA, and RHCE certifications, find that these serve as a solid foundation.
Yellow Tail Tech provides the programs that help you take these next steps toward advanced certifications.
What is RHCSA?
Now that you understand why Red Hat certifications matter and how RHCSA vs RHCE are valued worldwide, let’s dive into the journey’s first step: RHCSA.
Overview of RHCSA (Red Hat Certified System Administrator)
The RHCSA certification is considered the entry-level certification for Red Hat.
The certification process focuses on:
- Linux basics and essential tools
- Running systems and maintaining systems
- Local storage and logical volumes
- Simple shell scripts for system management
- File systems and user administration
- Basic security and network services
Think of it as your great starting point in Linux system administration. With the RHCSA exam, you’re tested on hands-on training, ensuring you can work on live systems rather than answer theory questions.
Target audience: Beginners, junior system admins, and IT professionals looking to build foundational skills in Linux administration.
What is RHCE?
Once you’ve built a solid foundation with RHCSA, the next level to aim for is RHCE, an advanced certification that takes your skills further.
Overview of RHCE (Red Hat Certified Engineer)
The RHCE certification is an advanced-level certification that builds directly on the RHCSA exam. It takes your foundational skills and adds automation knowledge through Red Hat Ansible Automation.
Key focus areas include:
- Automation knowledge required for managing Linux servers
- Container-based architecture and more advanced topics
- Network security and advanced system administration
- Creating and managing more advanced certifications and tools
- System management at scale with Ansible
In short, the RHCE exam tests your ability to automate tasks and manage Linux systems at an advanced level. It shows employers that you’ve gone beyond basic skills and mastered automation, which is key for modern DevOps and IT operations.
Key Differences Between RHCSA vs RHCE
Which certification to choose first
- Start with RHCSA: It’s the foundation. The RHCSA certification provides a solid foundation and the hands-on experience to land your first role in Linux system administration. It’s the right certification if you’re new to Red Hat products or Linux servers.
- Progress to RHCE: Once you’ve gained experience, RHCE certification builds on your RHCSA skills. It focuses on automation knowledge and advanced topics, making it ideal for professionals aiming to advance to DevOps, systems engineering, or advanced certifications like the Red Hat Certified Architect.
The most common career progression looks like this:
RHCSA → job placement → RHCE exam → specialization in automation and advanced system management
Career impact
With a clear picture of what each certification covers, the next question is how they impact your career and the roles they can help you secure.
Roles you can land with RHCSA:
- Linux System Administrator
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior SysAdmin
Roles you can land with RHCE:
- DevOps Engineer
- Senior System Administrator
- IT Automation Specialist
Both certifications show employers that you have hands-on training with Red Hat Linux.
The RHCSA certification provides a solid foundation, while RHCE makes you stand out with automation knowledge required in modern IT careers.
Salary impact:
- With RHCSA, you can break into Linux administration.
- With RHCE, your complete certificate in automation and advanced skills makes you more competitive for higher salaries and leadership roles.
RHCSA = foundation, RHCE = specialization
To put it simply:
- RHCSA certification = foundational skills and Linux basics
- RHCE certification = automation knowledge and advanced topics
Your choice depends on your career goals and career stage. The RHCSA exam is an excellent way to establish a solid foundation for beginners. For experienced Linux professionals, the RHCE exam helps you stand out by demonstrating you can automate and scale system management.
Take the Next Step in Your Linux Career
If you’re a beginner, start with RHCSA preparation to launch your career in Linux system administration. Once you’ve gained experience, move forward with the RHCE certification to prove your mastery of automation and more advanced topics.
Ready to climb higher in IT? Start with RHCSA today, and when you’re ready, take on RHCE with structured Ansible training to secure your place at the top of the IT ladder.
The first step? Book a 10-minute intro call with us today!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I take the RHCE exam without RHCSA?
No. While there are no formal prerequisites, RHCSA is required before RHCE. - Is RHCSA hard for beginners?
The RHCSA exam is an entry-level certification. With hands-on training and practice, most IT professionals can pass. - How long is RHCSA valid?
Both RHCSA and RHCE certifications are valid for 3 years. - Which is better: RHCSA vs RHCE?
It’s not about one being better. RHCSA certification is the foundation, while RHCE is a specialization. Both certifications are part of the Red Hat certification path. - Do these certifications help in DevOps careers?
Yes. RHCSA builds your Linux basics, while RHCE certification gives you automation knowledge required for DevOps and system management at scale.
