81% of People with their LPIC-2 Took Under 5 Months to Study
by Ross Heintzkill | Published on January 27, 2025
The LPIC-2 certification is a big step for advanced Linux professionals, but how long does it take to prepare for the 201-450 exam? To get you a reliable answer, we surveyed certified professionals via X, LinkedIn, and email. They explained how long it took them to prepare so that you have guidance on how to structure your study plan. Keep reading to determine how much time you’ll need to dedicate to earning LPIC-2.
What is the LPIC-2?
LPIC-2 stands for Linux Professional Institute Certified, and the "2" is there because there are more after it in the sequence (and one before it). The Linux Professional Institute is a non-profit professional organization aimed at standardizing and advancing the knowledge and skills of Linux administrators around the world.
LPIC-2 is an advanced Linux certification aimed at professionals with basic Linux administration experience who want to deepen their expertise. It’s best suited for Linux systems administrators, network engineers, and IT managers responsible for managing complex Linux environments.
This certification covers advanced topics like system maintenance, network configuration, and security management. Employers value LPIC-2 certified professionals because they can handle complex Linux systems and troubleshoot critical issues, which are essential skills in companies that rely on Linux-based infrastructure.
You'll have to pass two different exams to earn the LPIC-2: the 201-450 and 202-450. Each exam costs $165, and the LPIC-1 certification is a prerequisite. You have to have a current LPIC-1 certification before you can even sit for the LPIC-2 exams.
How Long Does it Take to Study for the LPIC-2?
According to our survey, it took the vast majority (82%) of people 5 months or less to prepare for LPIC-2, with 57% needing between 6 weeks and 5 months. Of all our survey respondents, a quarter (24%) needed less than 6 weeks to study. These responses suggest that if you've got a strong foundation in Linux, it’s possible to get ready relatively quickly if you have a way to focus your study time.
With a focused LPIC-2 study plan, you can avoid the long preparation times that some candidates experience. High-quality study materials, combined with hands-on, practical experience, are likely the key to keeping your preparation time within that 6-week to 5-month range. The exam covers complex topics, but practical application can help you absorb the material more effectively.
For those aiming to prepare for LPIC-2 quickly, using real-world scenarios and practice tests will make a big difference. You can shorten your LPIC-2 study time with online Linux courses. With the right resources and consistent study habits, you can target a quicker prep time while still mastering the advanced Linux skills needed for success.
What's on the LPIC-2 Test?
The LPIC-2 tests are two 90-minute exams with 60 questions each. Together, they’ll test your advanced skills in system administration, focusing on managing block storage and file systems, setting up network services, and advising on automation and purchases. The two tests have a total of 13 sections:
Capacity Planning
Linux Kernel
System Startup
Filesystem and Devices
Advanced Storage Device Administration
Networking Configuration
System Maintenance
Domain Name Server
HTTP Services
File Sharing
Network Client Management
Email Services
System Security
The LPIC-2 exams (201 and 202) test advanced skills related to managing Linux systems, with a strong focus on planning, troubleshooting, and security. You’ll need to know how to monitor and manage system resources efficiently to predict future needs.
A strong understanding of Linux Kernel management is also essential. This includes compiling and configuring kernel modules and adjusting runtime settings, as these are critical for overall system performance.
The exams will require you to customize boot processes, troubleshoot startup issues, and work with alternative bootloaders. You’ll also need experience configuring and maintaining file systems and managing advanced storage setups like RAID and Logical Volume Manager (LVM) to handle storage needs.
Strong network skills are also essential. You should be able to configure basic and advanced network settings, troubleshoot network problems, and then resolve them to maintain system connectivity and reliability.
Cut down on study time with online LPIC-2 training that gives you a straight, direct path to understanding the advanced Linux administration concepts you'll find on the test. Taking an online LPIC-2 course will shorten the time it takes you to prepare for the exam significantly.
Why Should I Spend Months Earning the LPIC-2?
LPIC-2 is the perfect next step for Linux professionals who want to move on to more advanced tasks than routine systems administration. Systems engineers and Linux administrators should seriously consider investing the time to earn the LPIC-2; it'll prove your skills in areas like advanced networking and file system management.
With the right course, you'll be ready in far less than the 3-month average, and afterward, you'll be ready to tackle complex Linux environments. LPIC-2 is a particularly smart time investment for anyone who plans to advance their career with a focus on Linux.
How to Prepare for LPIC-2 in Less Than 5 Months
Preparing for the LPIC-2 certification will likely take 6 weeks to 5 months, but targeted study tools like online courses and practice exams can help cut that time down.
Use Online Training Resources
LPIC-2 tests your Linux skills at a whole new level, but finding quality resources to cover everything can be a hassle. CBT Nuggets’ course is designed around the LPIC-2 objectives, covering advanced networking, storage, and security configurations. With organized, targeted content, you’ll save time and keep your study focused on the key topics needed for LPIC-2 success.
Test Yourself Using Practice Exams
CBT Nuggets’ practice exams show you what to expect on the LPIC-2 test, helping you identify areas that need more focus. By simulating exam conditions, you’ll go into test day familiar with the format and feel more prepared. With targeted practice exams, you’ll save time and ensure you’re ready to succeed.
Learn From Experts
CBT Nuggets’ instructors make advanced Linux topics accessible, offering clear explanations and practical tips. Their expertise brings the LPIC-2 material to life, and with engaging lessons, you’ll retain complex information more easily. This expert guidance makes your study time more efficient and prepares you thoroughly for the LPIC-2 certification. Advancing in Linux? The LPIC-2 certification is a key milestone, and CBT Nuggets can help you get there faster. LPIC-2 takes some people up to five months to prepare for, but the LPIC-2 course has in-depth lessons and practice exams that streamline your preparation. With CBT Nuggets, you’ll feel fully prepared for the test and ready to take on new, advanced Linux roles. Let expert-led training be your guide to success.