Title: Linux Sysadmin Skills: 10 Essential Things to Learn in 2021

Linux is a powerful and versatile operating system that is used by many organizations worldwide. As a Linux sysadmin, you are responsible for managing and maintaining the Linux infrastructure in your organization. In this article, we will discuss the 10 essential Linux sysadmin skills that you will need to learn in 2021 to keep up with the ever-changing world of technology.

1. Linux File System

The Linux file system is the foundation of the operating system. As a Linux sysadmin, you must have a deep understanding of the file system and its architecture. You should know the difference between partitions, directories, and files, as well as understand how to navigate and manage the file system using command-line tools like ls, cd, and chmod.

2. Networking

Networking is a critical component of any Linux infrastructure. You must have a solid understanding of IP addressing, network technologies like TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, and VPNs. Additionally, you should know how to configure Linux networking interfaces using command-line tools like ifconfig, ip, and netstat.

3. System Administration Tasks

As a Linux sysadmin, you will be responsible for performing various system administration tasks like creating and managing user accounts, managing system processes, and scheduling tasks using cron or at. You should also know how to configure and manage the system startup process using tools like systemd, init, and rc.

4. Security

Security is a crucial aspect of any Linux infrastructure. You should know how to secure Linux systems by implementing firewalls, configuring SELinux or AppArmor, and using tools like fail2ban to prevent brute-force attacks. You should also be familiar with Linux security best practices, such as keeping the system up-to-date with security patches and disabling unnecessary services.

5. Shell Scripting

Shell scripting is an essential skill for any Linux sysadmin. You should know how to write scripts using Bash, one of the most popular Linux shells. Shell scripting can help you automate repetitive tasks, manage system configurations, and create custom tools for your organization.

6. Package Management

Linux package management is a crucial skill for any sysadmin. You should know how to manage packages using tools like apt or yum, as well as how to install, update, and remove software packages from the system. You should also be familiar with package management best practices, such as keeping packages up-to-date and removing unnecessary packages.

7. Virtualization

Virtualization is becoming more common in the Linux world. You should know how to use tools like KVM or Xen to create and manage virtual machines. You should also know how to configure virtual networking and storage to ensure optimal performance.

8. Cloud Computing

With the rise of cloud computing, Linux sysadmins need to know how to manage Linux systems in the cloud. You should be familiar with cloud platforms like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP). You should also know how to use cloud-specific tools like AWS CLI or GCP Console.

9. Monitoring and Logging

Monitoring and logging are essential components of any Linux infrastructure. You should know how to use tools like Nagios, Zabbix, or Prometheus to monitor system performance and alert you when issues arise. You should also know how to configure and manage system logs using tools like syslog-ng or rsyslog.

10. Automation Tools

As a Linux sysadmin, you will be responsible for managing multiple systems and performing various repetitive tasks. Automation tools like Ansible, Puppet, or Chef can help you automate these tasks and ensure consistency across the infrastructure. You should know how to write and manage Ansible playbooks, Puppet manifests, or Chef cookbooks.

In conclusion, Linux sysadmin skills are in high demand, and it's essential to keep up with the ever-changing landscape of technology. The 10 essential Linux sysadmin skills discussed in this article will help you stay ahead of the curve and become a valuable asset to any organization.