What Is the Exam Structure for Red Hat Containers Certification?

Table of Contents

• Overview of the Red Hat Containers Certification
• Exam Format and Delivery
• Key Tasks and Objectives
• Tools and Technologies Tested
• The Exam Environment
• Scoring and Passing Criteria
• Exam Structure Summary Table
• How to Prepare for the Exam
• Common Challenges and Tips
• Conclusion
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Overview of the Red Hat Containers Certification

The Red Hat Certified Specialist in Containers (EX180/EX188) is a performance-based certification that validates your skills in managing containers using Red Hat’s tools, such as Podman, Buildah, and Skopeo. Unlike traditional exams with multiple-choice questions, this one requires you to complete real-world tasks in a live Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) environment. The certification is designed for professionals like system administrators, developers, and DevOps engineers who work with containerized applications in enterprise settings.

The exam focuses on container fundamentals creating, managing, and securing containers without covering Kubernetes orchestration, which is addressed in other Red Hat certifications like EX280. By passing the EX180/EX188, you demonstrate practical expertise that’s highly valued in cloud-native environments.

Exam Format and Delivery

The EX180/EX188 exam is a hands-on, performance-based test, meaning you’ll perform actual tasks rather than answering theoretical questions. Here’s a breakdown of its format:

• Duration: The exam lasts 2 to 3 hours, depending on the specific version and delivery method.
• Delivery Options: It can be taken at a Red Hat testing center or remotely via online proctoring.
• Task-Based Structure: You’ll complete a series of practical tasks, such as configuring containers, building images, and troubleshooting issues.
• Open-Book Nature: You can access documentation (like man pages or Red Hat’s online guides) during the exam, but time management is critical.

The performance-based format ensures you’re tested on real-world skills, making the certification highly relevant for enterprise roles.

Key Tasks and Objectives

The exam tests a range of skills critical for container management. Red Hat provides official objectives, which include:

• Container Management: Create, run, stop, and remove containers using Podman, ensuring they function correctly.
• Image Building: Build and customize container images with Buildah, using containerfiles (similar to Dockerfiles).
• Image Management: Copy, inspect, and manage container images across registries with Skopeo.
• Storage Configuration: Set up persistent and temporary storage for containers, ensuring data accessibility.
• Networking Setup: Configure container networks (e.g., bridge or host modes) for communication.
• Security Practices: Run containers as non-root users and apply SELinux policies to enhance security.
• Troubleshooting: Diagnose and resolve issues, such as container failures or misconfigurations.

Each task is designed to mimic real-world scenarios, testing your ability to apply skills under time constraints.

Tools and Technologies Tested

The exam focuses on Red Hat’s container tools and related technologies, all within a RHEL environment:

• Podman: A daemonless container engine for running and managing containers, similar to Docker but more secure.
• Buildah: A tool for building and customizing container images, supporting minimal and secure image creation.
• Skopeo: A utility for managing container images, including copying and inspecting images across registries.
• RHEL: The operating system hosting the exam, requiring familiarity with Linux commands and system configuration.
• SELinux: A security module in RHEL for enforcing access controls, critical for securing containers.

These tools are central to the exam, and mastering them ensures you can handle container workflows effectively.

The Exam Environment

The exam is conducted in a live RHEL environment, simulating a real-world setup. Here’s what to expect:

• Virtual Machine Setup: You’ll work on a RHEL-based virtual machine with pre-installed container tools.
• Command-Line Interface: Tasks are performed using the terminal, requiring fluency in Linux commands.
• Access to Documentation: You can use man pages, Red Hat’s online documentation, or tool-specific help, but internet searches are restricted.
• Time Constraints: The 2-3 hour duration demands efficient task completion, as there’s little room for delays.

The environment is designed to test your practical skills, so hands-on practice is essential for success.

Scoring and Passing Criteria

The EX180/EX188 exam is scored based on the successful completion of tasks. Key details include:

• Task-Based Scoring: Each task is evaluated for correctness, with partial credit possible for incomplete but functional solutions.
• Passing Score: Red Hat doesn’t publish an exact passing score, but it’s typically around 70-80% of tasks completed correctly.
• Results Timeline: Results are usually provided within a few days, with feedback on areas for improvement if you fail.
• Retake Policy: If you fail, you can retake the exam after a 7-day waiting period, with an additional fee.

Focus on completing as many tasks as possible accurately, prioritizing high-value objectives to maximize your score.

Exam Structure Summary Table

How to Prepare for the Exam

Preparing for the EX180/EX188 requires a combination of hands-on practice and structured study. Here’s how to get ready:

• Set Up a Lab: Install RHEL or Fedora on a virtual machine to practice with Podman, Buildah, and Skopeo.
• Study Exam Objectives: Review Red Hat’s official objectives to focus on key tasks like container management and security.
• Practice Commands: Master commands like podman run, buildah bud, and skopeo copy through hands-on labs.
• Take Training: Enroll in Red Hat’s DO180 course for comprehensive coverage of container tools.
• Use Documentation: Practice using man pages and Red Hat’s online guides, as these are available during the exam.
• Simulate Tasks: Create scenarios like building images or configuring SELinux to mimic exam conditions.

Plan for 2-3 months of consistent study, with daily practice to build fluency and confidence.

Common Challenges and Tips

The EX180/EX188 exam can be challenging, but these tips can help you overcome obstacles:

• Time Management: The exam’s time limit is tight. Practice completing tasks quickly to stay on track.
• Command Familiarity: Memorizing key commands for Podman, Buildah, and Skopeo saves time. Use flashcards or cheat sheets during prep.
• SELinux Complexity: SELinux can be tricky. Practice configuring policies and troubleshooting denials with tools like audit2allow.
• Troubleshooting: Exam tasks often include diagnosing issues. Practice debugging container failures in your lab.

With focused preparation, these challenges become manageable, setting you up for success.

Conclusion

The Red Hat Certified Specialist in Containers (EX180/EX188) exam is a rigorous, performance-based test that validates your ability to manage containers in a RHEL environment. With a 2-3 hour duration, hands-on tasks, and a focus on tools like Podman, Buildah, and Skopeo, the exam tests real-world skills in container management, security, and troubleshooting. By understanding its structure task-based format, RHEL environment, and open-book nature you can prepare effectively with hands-on practice and structured study. Whether you’re new to containers or aiming to advance your career, this certification equips you with the expertise to excel in cloud-native roles, making it a valuable step toward success in IT.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Red Hat Containers Certification?

It’s a performance-based exam (EX180/EX188) testing container management skills with Red Hat tools.

How long is the EX180/EX188 exam?

It lasts 2-3 hours, depending on the version and delivery method.

What is the exam format?

It’s a hands-on, performance-based test where you complete tasks in a RHEL environment.

What tools are tested in the exam?

Podman, Buildah, and Skopeo, along with RHEL and SELinux.

Does the exam cover Kubernetes?

No, it focuses on container fundamentals, not Kubernetes orchestration.

Can I take the exam remotely?

Yes, Red Hat offers remote proctoring for the exam.

What is Podman?

Podman is a daemonless container engine for running and managing containers.

What is Buildah?

Buildah is a tool for building and customizing container images.

What is Skopeo?

Skopeo manages container images by copying, inspecting, and syncing them across registries.

What is SELinux?

SELinux is a RHEL security module for enforcing container access controls.

Can I use documentation during the exam?

Yes, you can access man pages and Red Hat’s online guides, but not external websites.

How is the exam scored?

It’s scored based on task completion, with a passing threshold around 70-80%.

What tasks are included in the exam?

Container management, image building, storage, networking, security, and troubleshooting.

Is the exam beginner-friendly?

Yes, with basic Linux knowledge and practice, beginners can succeed.

How much does the exam cost?

It costs around $400, varying by region.

Can I retake the exam if I fail?

Yes, after a 7-day waiting period and paying the exam fee again.

How long should I prepare for the exam?

2-3 months of consistent study and hands-on practice.

What is the DO180 course?

It’s Red Hat’s training course covering container tools for EX180/EX188 preparation.

Is the certification recognized by employers?

Yes, especially in enterprises using Red Hat solutions or containers.

Where can I find exam objectives?

Red Hat’s website lists the official objectives for EX180/EX188.