Can RHCSA Certification Help in DevSecOps Roles?

In today’s fast-paced tech world, where businesses rely on cloud systems and face growing cyber threats like ransomware and phishing, DevSecOps is revolutionizing how teams build, deploy, and secure software. DevSecOps, short for Development, Security, and Operations, integrates security into every stage of software development, ensuring robust systems without slowing down progress. As Linux powers most cloud platforms and servers, the Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) certification is a game-changer for aspiring DevSecOps professionals. Designed for beginners, RHCSA teaches essential Linux skills that align perfectly with DevSecOps needs. In this blog, we’ll explore how RHCSA prepares you for DevSecOps roles, using simple language to guide newcomers and IT pros alike. Ready to jump into a cutting-edge career? Let’s dive in!

Sep 11, 2025 - 16:50
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Table of Contents

What is RHCSA?

The Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) is an entry-level certification from Red Hat, a global leader in open-source software. It focuses on managing Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), a powerful operating system used in servers and cloud platforms. Linux is open-source, meaning its code is customizable, making it a favorite for secure and scalable systems.

RHCSA, tested through the EX200 exam, is hands-on. You perform real tasks—like managing users, setting permissions, or configuring firewalls—on a live RHEL system, proving practical skills. It’s designed for beginners with basic IT knowledge, requiring no advanced experience. For a detailed syllabus, check this RHCSA course details blog from Webasha.

For DevSecOps, RHCSA provides foundational Linux skills to manage and secure systems, aligning with the role’s need for automation, security, and operations expertise.

What is DevSecOps?

DevSecOps is a modern approach that embeds security into every phase of software development, from coding to deployment. Unlike traditional models where security was an afterthought, DevSecOps ensures developers, security experts, and operations teams work together to build secure, efficient systems. In 2025, with cloud platforms like AWS and Azure dominating and cyber threats like ransomware surging, DevSecOps professionals are in high demand.

DevSecOps involves automating security checks, monitoring systems, and managing cloud infrastructure, often on Linux-based systems. RHCSA’s Linux expertise makes it a perfect fit for these roles, providing the skills to secure and operate the environments where DevSecOps thrives.

Why Linux is Essential for DevSecOps

Linux powers over 70% of web servers, most cloud platforms, and many DevSecOps tools, like Docker and Kubernetes. Its flexibility and reliability make it the backbone of cloud infrastructure, but also a target for cyberattacks. DevSecOps professionals need Linux skills to:

  • Manage Infrastructure: Configure and maintain Linux servers hosting applications.
  • Secure Systems: Protect against vulnerabilities like weak permissions or open ports.
  • Automate Processes: Use Linux-based tools to automate security and deployment tasks.
  • Monitor Threats: Analyze logs to detect and respond to security incidents.

RHCSA provides the foundational Linux knowledge needed to excel in these areas, making it a key credential for DevSecOps roles.

RHCSA Skills for DevSecOps

RHCSA teaches practical Linux skills that directly support DevSecOps tasks:

  • User Management: Use useradd and passwd to manage accounts, ensuring only authorized users access systems.
  • File Permissions: Set permissions with chmod and chown to secure sensitive files, like configuration files in /etc.
  • SELinux Basics: Configure Security-Enhanced Linux to restrict processes, preventing unauthorized actions in cloud environments.
  • Firewall Configuration: Use firewalld to control network traffic (e.g., firewall-cmd --add-service=http), protecting applications.
  • Software Management: Update software with dnf to patch vulnerabilities, critical for secure DevSecOps pipelines.
  • Log Analysis: Monitor logs with journalctl (e.g., /var/log/secure) to detect security incidents, like failed logins.
  • Service Management: Configure services like SSH or Apache with systemctl, ensuring secure and reliable operation.

These skills align with DevSecOps needs for secure, automated, and efficient system management. For more, see this RHCSA overview blog.

Practical Applications in DevSecOps

RHCSA skills are directly applicable to DevSecOps workflows:

  • Securing User Access: Use passwd or usermod to enforce strong credentials, preventing unauthorized access to cloud servers.
  • Protecting Files: Apply chmod 600 to sensitive files like /etc/shadow, ensuring secure configurations in DevSecOps pipelines.
  • Enforcing SELinux: Set SELinux to enforcing mode with setenforce 1 to block unauthorized actions, enhancing cloud security.
  • Managing Firewalls: Configure firewalld to allow only necessary ports (e.g., firewall-cmd --add-port=443/tcp), protecting applications.
  • Patching Software: Use dnf update to keep systems secure, integrating with automated DevSecOps workflows.
  • Monitoring Logs: Analyze logs with journalctl -u sshd to detect threats, integrating with monitoring tools like Prometheus.
  • Configuring Services: Secure SSH with key-based authentication in /etc/ssh/sshd_config, ensuring safe remote access.

These applications show how RHCSA supports secure, efficient DevSecOps practices. For real-world insights, see this RHCSA success story.

RHCSA vs. Other Certifications for DevSecOps

How does RHCSA compare to certifications like CompTIA Security+, AWS Certified DevOps Engineer, or Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA)? Here’s a table:

Aspect RHCSA CompTIA Security+ AWS Certified DevOps Engineer CKA
Focus Linux administration, basic security General security fundamentals AWS DevOps, automation Kubernetes orchestration
DevSecOps Skills Strong: Linux security, system management Basic: security concepts Strong: AWS automation, CI/CD Moderate: container orchestration
Exam Style Hands-on, performance-based Multiple-choice Multiple-choice Hands-on, performance-based
Prerequisites Basic IT knowledge None, Network+ recommended AWS experience Kubernetes experience
Best For Linux-based DevSecOps roles Beginner security roles AWS-specific DevOps Kubernetes-focused roles

RHCSA’s Linux focus and hands-on approach make it ideal for DevSecOps, complementing platform-specific or broader certifications. For more, see this Red Hat career guide.

Career Path with RHCSA in DevSecOps

RHCSA sets you on a clear path to DevSecOps roles:

  • Start with RHCSA: Gain foundational Linux and security skills.
  • Build Experience: Work as a Linux Admin or Junior DevOps Engineer, applying RHCSA skills.
  • Add DevSecOps Skills: Learn tools like Docker, Kubernetes, or Ansible for automation.
  • Pursue RHCE: Advance to RHCE for deeper automation and security expertise.
  • Land DevSecOps Roles: Secure positions like DevSecOps Engineer or Cloud Security Specialist.

RHCSA’s practical skills make you a strong candidate for DevSecOps, with clear growth potential. For exam tips, check this RHCSA exam tips blog.

Why Choose Webasha for the Course

To excel in DevSecOps with RHCSA, Webasha Technologies is a top choice, especially in India. With years of experience training thousands, Webasha offers RHCSA courses with hands-on labs that mirror the EX200 exam. Their expert instructors simplify Linux concepts, making them accessible for beginners.

Webasha provides flexible learning options—online, classroom, or bootcamps—along with affordable fees and job placement support. Their practical approach ensures you’re ready to manage and secure Linux systems in DevSecOps workflows. For exam prep tips, see their RHCSA exam tips blog. Webasha is your launchpad to a DevSecOps career.

Conclusion

RHCSA is a powerful stepping stone for DevSecOps roles, providing essential Linux skills to manage and secure cloud infrastructure. From user management and permissions to SELinux and firewalls, RHCSA equips you to handle the security and operations demands of DevSecOps. In 2025, with Linux at the core of cloud platforms and cyber threats on the rise, RHCSA opens doors to exciting careers. Whether you’re a beginner or an IT pro, this certification sets you on a path to success. Ready to kickstart your DevSecOps journey? Enroll with Webasha and take the first step today!

FAQs

What is RHCSA?

RHCSA is an entry-level certification teaching Linux administration and security skills.

What is DevSecOps?

DevSecOps integrates security into software development and operations workflows.

Why is Linux important for DevSecOps?

Linux powers most cloud platforms and DevSecOps tools, requiring strong system skills.

How does RHCSA help in DevSecOps?

It teaches Linux skills for securing and managing cloud infrastructure.

What RHCSA skills support DevSecOps?

User management, permissions, SELinux, firewalls, and log analysis.

Is RHCSA beginner-friendly?

Yes, it requires only basic IT knowledge.

Can RHCSA improve DevSecOps skills?

Yes, it provides Linux expertise for secure system management.

What is SELinux in RHCSA?

A security module restricting process actions to enhance system security.

Does RHCSA teach firewall skills?

Yes, it covers firewalld to manage network traffic.

Can RHCSA help with automation?

Yes, it lays the foundation for tools like Ansible in DevSecOps.

What jobs can RHCSA lead to?

Linux Admin, Junior DevOps Engineer, or DevSecOps roles.

How long is RHCSA training?

Typically 3-6 months with consistent study.

Is the RHCSA exam hands-on?

Yes, it tests real tasks like securing systems.

Does RHCSA expire?

Yes, after three years; renew with exams or credits.

How does RHCSA compare to Security+?

RHCSA is Linux-focused and hands-on; Security+ is broader, theoretical.

Can RHCSA secure cloud systems?

Yes, it applies to Linux-based clouds like AWS.

Why learn log analysis in RHCSA?

It helps detect security incidents, like unauthorized access attempts.

Is RHCSA globally recognized?

Yes, Red Hat certifications are valued worldwide.

Can RHCSA lead to RHCE?

Yes, it’s a prerequisite for RHCE, enhancing DevSecOps skills.

Why choose Webasha for RHCSA?

Webasha offers hands-on training, expert instructors, and job support.

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Ishwar Singh Sisodiya I am focused on making a positive difference and helping businesses and people grow. I believe in the power of hard work, continuous learning, and finding creative ways to solve problems. My goal is to lead projects that help others succeed, while always staying up to date with the latest trends. I am dedicated to creating opportunities for growth and helping others reach their full potential.