Linux+ XK0-005 V7 to XK0-006 V8: What's New in the Updated CompTIA Linux+ Exam
CompTIA Linux+ validates practical skills in system administration, security, scripting, troubleshooting, and service management. As Linux continues to expand its role in modern data centers, cloud environments, and DevOps workflows, CompTIA updates the Linux+ exam to reflect current industry needs. The new Linux+ XK0-006 (V8) exam, launching July 15, 2025, introduces several notable changes compared to the current XK0-005 (V7) exam. This update aligns the certification more closely with cloud operations, containerization, and automation technologies used in today's enterprise environments. If you're preparing for Linux+ or deciding whether to take the current or future version, this guide explains what's new and what it means for your career.
Why CompTIA Updated Linux+
The shift reflects how organizations use Linux in 2025 and beyond:
●Linux is heavily used not just on physical servers, but in cloud, container, and hybrid environments.
●Modern system administration requires automation, not just manual configuration.
●Python and configuration management tools are now standard in IT operations.
●Organizations are prioritizing security hardening and resilience.
The new exam ensures certified professionals are prepared to manage Linux across distributed infrastructure, not just stand-alone servers.
Exam Structure Comparison
| Aspect | Linux+ V7 - XK0-005 | Linux+ V8 - XK0-006 |
| Launch Date | July 12, 2022 | July 15, 2025 |
| Retirement | Jan 13, 2026 (English) | Estimated 2028 |
| Duration | 90 minutes | 90 minutes |
| Number of Questions | Up to 90 | Up to 90 |
| Passing Score | 720 / 900 | 720 / 900 |
| Languages | EN, JP, PT, ES | English only (at launch) |
| Accreditation | Not specified | ISO-accredited (ANAB) |
Key takeaway:
Your Linux+ certification remains valid regardless of version - but V8 holds added ISO accreditation, improving international recognition.
What Skills Are Changing?
Focus of XK0-005 (V7)
Traditional Linux server system management Basic Bash scripting and Git usage File permissions, authentication, and firewall basics Troubleshooting user and application issues
Focus of XK0-006 (V8)
Linux administration in cloud and hybrid infrastructures Deploying and maintaining containers and virtual machines Automation using Bash, Python, and config-management tools Enhanced security hardening and system monitoring Broader troubleshooting that includes network and cloud context
Updated Exam Domain Weights
Domain XK0-005 (V7) XK0-006 (V8) What Changed System Management 32% 23% Reduced as content spreads into service + cloud areas Security 21% 18% Now integrated across tasks, not isolated Scripting, Containers & Automation 19% 17% Expanded to include Python and orchestration Troubleshooting 28% 22% Troubleshooting now considers cloud/network context Services & User Management - 20% New domain focused on managing enterprise-level services
Major new emphasis: Container platforms (e.g., Docker/Podman), virtualization tools, and automation workflows.
Should You Take XK0-005 Now or Wait for XK0-006?
Choose XK0-005 (V7) if:
●You want to certify before early 2026
●Your role focuses on traditional Linux administration
●You prefer available study materials and training resources
●You want language options besides English
Choose XK0-006 (V8) if:
●You work with cloud, hybrid, DevOps, or platform engineering
●You want a certification aligned with modern automation and container workflows
●You prefer the benefit of ISO accreditation
●You're okay waiting for updated study resources to release
The move from Linux+ V7 (XK0-005) to V8 (XK0-006) represents more than a routine content refresh. It aligns the certification with the future of Linux administration - one where systems are distributed, automated, containerized, and integrated into hybrid cloud infrastructure.
Whether you choose to take the current exam or wait for the update depends on your career goals and certification timeline. Both versions remain valuable, but XK0-006 better reflects the skills used in modern DevOps and cloud environments.
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