Training guide
NDG Linux Essentials on Cisco NetAcad: Course Guide
A guide to NDG Linux Essentials, a Linux course offered through Cisco Networking Academy: content, time and the LPI exam link.
EU Job Hub Editorial Team · Updated 1 October 2026 · Based on Cisco NetAcad pages and NDG course documents
Introduction
NDG Linux Essentials teaches the basics of the Linux operating system, the command line and open source ideas. It is offered through Cisco Networking Academy and was built by the Network Development Group.
The old page called it a free Linux course in a Cisco partnership. That is mostly right for self-paced learners. This guide gives the details and explains what the LPI exam adds.
Quick Information
| Provider | Network Development Group, offered through Cisco Networking Academy |
| Level | Listed by Cisco as intermediate, with no prerequisites |
| Delivery | Self-paced online or instructor-led |
| Estimated time | About 70 hours |
| Structure | 18 chapters in version 2.0 |
| Aligned exam | LPI Linux Essentials, exam 010-160 |
| Cost | Self-paced classes on NetAcad are free. The LPI exam is separate. |
Key Points at a Glance
- Cisco lists 70 hours, free self-paced classes and no prerequisites.
- The course has 18 chapters in version 2.0.
- It prepares you for the LPI Linux Essentials certificate, exam 010-160.
- Completing the course makes you eligible for an exam discount, according to NDG’s FAQ.
- A Linux virtual machine is built into the course.
What You Learn
You learn open source concepts and how to use Linux commands step by step. The course also explains how Linux is used and the basics of its command line.
A virtual machine lets you practise safely. You can make mistakes and start again.
Course Structure
The version 2.0 course has 18 chapters. NDG’s materials show a chapter exam for each, a midterm covering the first chapters and a final exam.
The course also includes coursebooks and lab exercises.
Cost
Cisco’s page notes that self-paced classes at NetAcad are free. Instructor-led classes have fees set by the institution.
The LPI exam is not free. NDG says finishers can receive a discount, so ask for the current offer.
The LPI Exam
The course focuses on the skills needed for the LPI Linux Essentials certificate. The exam code is 010-160.
The course alone does not give the certificate. You must pass the exam.
Who Should Take It
It suits students, career changers and anyone who works with servers or cloud tools. Nearly every IT job needs some Linux knowledge.
Cisco says many concepts are covered at a more demanding pace in NDG Linux I.
Level Note
Cisco lists the course as intermediate, yet it also says no prerequisites are needed. The two statements fit together. The pace is steady, but you can start from zero.
If you feel lost, slow down and repeat the practice commands.
Study Tips
Open the terminal every day, even for ten minutes. Practise one command family at a time.
Write a one-page cheat sheet of commands you use. Use your own words.
Common Mistakes
Do not memorise commands you cannot explain. Exam questions check understanding.
Do not skip the licensing and open source chapters. They carry exam points.
Do not book the exam before you finish the chapter exams.
Next Steps
Many learners continue to NDG Linux I and II. Others move to cloud or networking courses.
Choose the next step based on the job you want.
Using It in Europe
Entry roles include IT support, junior system administrator and help desk technician. Add the course and the year to your Europass CV.
List the exam only if you pass it.
Command Line Skills to Practise
Start with moving between folders, listing files and reading file contents. Then practise copying, moving and deleting files with care.
Next, learn to search for text and to combine simple commands. These small habits appear in almost every Linux job.
Questions Before You Enrol
Do I want the self-paced route or a class? Self-paced is free, but you keep your own schedule.
Do I plan to take the LPI exam? If yes, check the exam price and your nearest testing option first.
Do I have a quiet hour each day? Short daily practice beats weekend cramming.
Keeping Your Records
Save your chapter exam results and your completion certificate. Write down your cheat sheet and keep it in a folder with your lab notes.
If you pass the LPI exam, store the certificate number in a safe place. Employers may ask for it.
Time Planning
Seventy hours is about ten weeks at seven hours a week. The command line chapters take longer for most beginners.
Set a weekly target by chapter. Move on only when the chapter exam feels comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NDG Linux Essentials free?
Cisco says self-paced classes on NetAcad are free. The LPI exam is separate.
How long is it?
Cisco lists about 70 hours.
Which exam does it prepare for?
The LPI Linux Essentials certificate, exam 010-160.
Do I need a Linux computer?
No. A virtual machine is built into the course.
Find Jobs
Job titles to search for include junior system administrator, IT support technician and help desk technician. Search current vacancies on the EURES portal.
Official Course Page
Read the current details on the Cisco Networking Academy NDG Linux Essentials page.
Disclaimer
This guide is independent and is not affiliated with Cisco or the Cisco Networking Academy. Course lengths, fees and course names change, so check the official page before you enrol. A course certificate does not give you the right to work in any country.