What is Linux? Distributions, Top Linux OS, Certifications, Career Path & Salary in India (2025)!
Linux is one of the most powerful and versatile operating systems used across servers, desktops, cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity, and even mobile devices. As the demand for open-source technology grows, so do opportunities for professionals skilled in Linux system administration and security.
In this post, we’ll cover what Linux is, its various distributions, the most popular Linux operating systems, certifications, and the career scope in India for 2025.
What is Linux?
Linux is an open-source operating system based on UNIX. It powers everything from smartphones and laptops to servers, routers, cloud platforms, and supercomputers. Known for its stability, security, and flexibility, Linux is the preferred OS for developers, system administrators, and cybersecurity professionals.
Unlike Windows or macOS, Linux is free to use and can be modified by anyone, which has led to the creation of hundreds of Linux distributions tailored to different needs.
Types of Linux Distributions:
A Linux distribution (distro) is a version of Linux bundled with a specific package manager, desktop environment, and system tools. Here are the major types:
- Debian-based: Includes Ubuntu, Kali Linux, and Parrot OS
- Red Hat-based: Includes RHEL, CentOS, Fedora, and Rocky Linux
- Arch-based: Includes Arch Linux, Manjaro
- SUSE-based: Includes openSUSE, SUSE Linux Enterprise
- Independent: Alpine Linux, Gentoo, Void Linux
Each type serves different purposes—some are optimized for servers, others for desktops or ethical hacking.
Top Linux Server Operating Systems (2025):
Here are some of the most reliable and widely used Linux server OS:
- Ubuntu Server – Beginner-friendly and widely supported
- CentOS Stream – Community-supported upstream version of RHEL
- Rocky Linux / AlmaLinux – Free RHEL alternatives for enterprise
- Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) – Enterprise-grade with paid support
- Debian – Stable and secure, ideal for critical systems
- SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES) – Used in large enterprise environments
- Oracle Linux – RHEL-compatible with enterprise tools
Top 20 Popular Linux Operating Systems (Desktop & Server Use):
Here are 20 well-known Linux distros across categories:
- Ubuntu
- Debian
- Fedora
- Linux Mint
- Arch Linux
- Manjaro
- Kali Linux
- Parrot OS
- Red Hat Enterprise Linux
- CentOS Stream
- Rocky Linux
- AlmaLinux
- openSUSE
- Zorin OS
- Elementary OS
- Garuda Linux
- Pop!_OS
- MX Linux
- Tails
- Slackware
Each has its own strengths. For example, Kali Linux is built for penetration testing, while Pop!_OS is loved by developers.
Popular Linux Certifications:
To validate your Linux expertise, several certifications are available:
- CompTIA Linux+ – Entry-level, vendor-neutral
- Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) – Recognized for RHEL environments
- Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) – Advanced system administration
- Linux Foundation Certified System Administrator (LFCS)
- LPIC-1 / LPIC-2 (Linux Professional Institute) – Well-rounded Linux certifications
- Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) – For Linux in container environments
These certifications enhance your credibility and open up job opportunities in system administration, DevOps, and cybersecurity.
Career Path After Learning Linux:
Linux skills are foundational for many IT roles. Here’s where they can lead:
- Linux System Administrator
- DevOps Engineer
- Cloud Administrator (AWS, Azure, GCP)
- Cybersecurity Analyst / Engineer
- SRE (Site Reliability Engineer)
- Linux Support Specialist
Learning Linux is also critical for ethical hackers, threat hunters, and digital forensics professionals, especially when working with open-source security tools.
Linux Salary in India (2025):
Here’s the average salary range for Linux professionals in India:
- Freshers (0–1 year): ₹3.5 – ₹5.5 LPA
- 1–3 years: ₹5 – ₹8.5 LPA
- 3–5 years: ₹8 – ₹12 LPA
- 5+ years: ₹12 – ₹20+ LPA
Note: Salaries depend on skills like scripting, cloud, and certifications (e.g., RHCSA, Linux+).
Final Thoughts
Linux is more than just an operating system—it's a powerful ecosystem that's shaping the future of IT, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced professional, learning Linux can greatly expand your career opportunities in 2025 and beyond.
At Xpert4Cyber, we offer training, labs, and project guidance to help you build strong Linux skills and prepare for industry-recognized certifications.