Can I Pass the RHCSA 9 Exam with RHEL 8?

Published On: 2 January 2025

Objective

If you're studying for the Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) 9 exam, one common question is “Can I pass the RHCSA 9 Exam with RHEL 8?”. The answer is 'YES,' but it's critical to understand the distinction between the two versions.

In this guide, we'll look at the similarities between the two, the major changes in RHCSA 9, and, most significantly, whether RHEL 8 may be utilized for preparation.

Understanding RHCSA 9 and RHEL 8

Let's take the time to learn about the relationship between RHCSA 9 and RHEL 8 in order to prepare for the RHCSA 9 exam. Your ability to administer and manage Red Hat Enterprise Linux 9 (RHEL 9), the most recent Red Hat release, is assessed by the RHCSA 9 exam.

Although RHEL 8 isn't a designated version for this exam, it shares numerous similarities with RHEL 9. Both versions are based on the same foundational principles and commands, but RHEL 9 introduces new updates and features that will be tested in the exam. Understanding these differences is critical for a successful exam preparation.

Similarities Between RHEL 8 and RHEL 9

  • Basic Linux Commands:  Basic Linux commands such as ls, cd, cp, and mv are unchanged between RHEL 8 and RHEL 9. As a result, a lot of fundamental functions like file management, permissions, and simple user administration are the same in both versions.

  • System Configuration: Both versions use systemd for managing services, which is vital for RHCSA exam tasks. Functions such as starting, stopping and enabling services are common in both RHEL 8 and RHEL 9; this will not change.

  • Networking: The configuration of network settings including static IPs DHCP and firewall configuration is quite similar in both the versions.

  • Storage Management: Managing disks, partitions, LVMs (Logical Volume Management), and filesystems in RHEL 8 is mostly the same as in RHEL 9, meaning these skills will transfer seamlessly.

To improve knowledge and assist candidates in passing the RHCSA exam, The RHCSA Guru offers a number of in-depth articles and hands-on labs covering all of these subjects.

Major Differences Between RHEL 8 and RHEL 9

Though the basic concepts would remain the same, several apparent changes between RHEL 8 and RHEL 9 may affect one in preparing for the RHCSA 9 exam are :

  1. Updated Software Packages: OpenSSL is one of the software packages that come with RHEL 9 and that were patched for security and added support for newer hardware.

  2. AppStream updates: RHEL 9 brings improvements to package delivery and management through updates to the AppStream repository. This could be a topic of focus in the RHCSA 9 exam.

  3. Cockpit UI Improvements: Cockpit is a web-based graphical user interface for managing RHEL systems. The design of Cockpit has been rewritten for RHEL 9. Although the RHCSA exam is command-line-focused, it's still useful to understand how Cockpit works in the context of managing RHEL systems.

  4. Enhanced Security Features: RHEL 9 offers more advanced SELinux, cryptographic policy, and system hardening features. Security is thus more advanced in RHEL 9. 

  5. Changes in Package Management: Newer options for software and package update management have been introduced since the last major release. You’ll need to learn about the new tools and processes for RHCSA 9 preparation.

Should you use RHEL 8 to prepare for the RHCSA 9 exam?

As new to the field, using RHEL 8 to prepare for the RHCSA exam wouldn't be a bad idea. Actually, RHEL 8 offers the best environment for learning almost all of the foundational material needed to perform well on the test. The RHEL 8 and RHEL 9 popular commands and strategies will help you build a solid foundation for your preparation. 

However, it's crucial to become familiar with the main distinctions between RHEL 8 and RHEL 9 in order to make sure you're prepared for the RHCSA 9 exam. You should practice on a RHEL 9 environment for a while if you have access to one. This will guarantee that you are familiar with any new RHEL 9 specific features and setups that might be covered in the test.

How to Effectively Prepare for the RHCSA 9 Exam

  1. Use Both RHEL 8 and RHEL 9: While RHEL 8 can help you understand core Linux concepts, practice on RHEL 9 to familiarize yourself with the updated tools, software, and system management techniques.

  2. Master the Command Line: The RHCSA exam is heavily focused on command-line skills. Be sure to practice essential tasks like user management, file systems, network configurations, and service management.

  3. Leverage Labs and Virtual Machines: Setting up a lab environment using virtual machines is a great way to practice hands-on tasks. If you're facing challenges in creating your own lab environment, visit RHCSAGuru, where we provide lab environments for each exam topic. This will help you get comfortable with system configurations and build confidence for your exam preparation.

  4. Follow Exam Objectives: Ensure you’re familiar with the specific RHCSA 9 exam objectives. Red Hat provides a detailed exam guide that outlines the tasks you must master. Use it to create a structured study plan.

  5. Utilize Online Resources: Join forums, take online courses, and access free tutorials to get guidance on any areas where you're struggling. This can provide clarity on RHEL 9-specific features and new tools. To know more about free and paid resources, click here.

Conclusion

In conclusion, you can use RHEL 8 for RHCSA 9 exam preparation because it has many basic components with RHEL 9. However, in order to thoroughly prepare for the RHCSA 9 exam, you should become familiar with the new features and tools in RHEL 9. By incorporating both versions into your study schedule and focusing on the exam objectives, you'll be well-prepared for the task ahead.  Happy studying, and good luck with your RHCSA certification!