How to learn Linux and pass an exam

[glenimp617]

I need to learn linux but other than a default installation I've no idea what I'm doing. Where on earth do you start?

Ideally I'd like to work towards passing the CompTIA Linux exam, not because I have to, but if I pass that at least I will know I have a basic understanding and I wouldn't mind doing it anyway.

so, I'm guessing I need to buy a decent book and read it a couple of times. Then install and generally have a play

How long roughly will it take from where I am now to passing the exam?

Thanks

 

[glenimp617]

I also did the comptia linux+ exam a few years ago (self teaching rather than a course) with the purpose of learning linux.

Basically get a book, an installation of Linux (debian, arch, fedora etc but not Ubuntu) and work through everything like book examples and do online practice tests until you're ready. The exam isn't at all bad once you're familiar with the material. The forums & practice tests on TechExams are a great resource.

Linux+ in Depth is a perfectly good book for it.

You could do it in 3 weeks if you work hard, 1.5 months at a steady pace will be better.

Brilliant, do you have a link for the book. I guess linux for dummies isn't the best then

I think I used to have debian ages ago but probably thrown the cd out now

Will I be able to run it in VMWare so I can keep my Win7