Open Source
What is it?
Not every technology solution has to come from an expensive commercial program like Windows. Users of Open Source software enjoy the absence of licensing fees and lower initial purchasing costs – essentially the same powerful technology with open-door access for users at any level. Almost anything that can be done with commercial software can be done with alternative open source software. Examples of key desktop applications include word processing, spreadsheets, presentation programs, operating systems and even drawing software.
Is it right for you?
Here's the great thing about open source software: you own it. Once you master open source technology, you're in the driver's seat when it comes to customizing software according to your needs. The flexibility of open source has become so popular that a recent survey found that 63% of websites on the Internet are using Apache, an open source web server that has been shown to be substantially faster, more stable and more reliable than other servers – not to mention, free! If you love getting down to the real guts of technology and using your own ingenuity to create new IT solutions, open source training is the way to go.
Certifications Available
- CompTIA Linux +
What kind of jobs can I get?
- Linux System Administrator
- Web Developer (Apache)
- Database Developer (MySQL)
How much is it worth?
Because Open Source training can lead to any number of avenues – be they new careers or your own invention – it's hard to pin down an average salary. But, according to a Certification Magazine survey, training in Linux, one of the most popular Open Source programs, has lead to an annual salary of about $71,000.
Get started!
- View the schedule of classes for Open Source
- Or, learn more about gaining certification.