Unix education and training can help you get started in a stable career. Many companies, particularly scientific or academic companies, prefer to use Unix and with the right Unix training, you can be working in no time at all.

People seem to find Unix to be more intimidating than other operating systems. It's definitely different from the graphical interface you'll find on a Macintosh. However, with some Unix education you will soon find that you can find your way around a Unix system.

Not everyone needs to learn Unix, but you may want to consider Unix education and training if:

1. You want to change careers. If you're not happy with your current employer, learning Unix can help you to transition to a better career.

2. You need to learn it for your job. Some people are surprised to find that their new employer uses a Unix-based system. In these cases, it's best to have a few Unix tutorials around in case you need to look something up.

3. You hope to get a promotion. If you work with a company that uses Unix, then you should study Unix to be able to advance your career.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Look for a free Unix tutorial online

If you're pretty comfortable with computers, you may be able to learn Unix with some online Unix training. This is not the best method for everyone, but many people find that it works well for them.

I recommend: Start with the Unix Tutorial for Beginners, which covers the basics of how to use Unix. The Unix Command Summary is a great Unix commands tutorial to help you remember commands. You may want to print this out and keep it nearby so that you can look up any commands that you forget.

Take classes to get your Unix education

Some people learn best when they are in a class-type learning situation. With this, you can easily learn more from the teacher or other students instead of trying to work things out by yourself.

I recommend: Tech Now Training Centers gives courses in Unix. LiveFire Labs has an online Unix training program that is affordable. LiveFire has an Internet Lab where you can practice what you learn.

Get Unix certification to boost your career

If you're serious about learning Unix and pursuing a career where you will use Unix on a regular basis, look for a program that will give you a Unix certificate. This shows potential employers that you are prepared to use Unix.

I recommend: You can get Unix certification through The Open Group. If you are interested in being a Unix systems administrator, then check out the certification program at San Jose State University.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Not all companies use the Unix operating system, so make sure that you really need to learn Unix before spending time watching a Unix training video or attending classes.