LPI Security Essentials
Linux Professional Institute Security Essentials
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ExploreAbout this exam
LPI Security Essentials (exam code 020-100, current version 1.0) is a vendor-neutral entry-level certificate from the Linux Professional Institute that validates basic competence in protecting data, devices, networks and identities. It is aimed at people who have completed a first course in IT security, at staff and members of organizations that want to raise their security awareness, and at individuals who want a working grasp of secure use of information technology. There are no prerequisites. The exam is delivered in English, both at VUE test centers and online via OnVUE, and consists of 40 multiple-choice questions to be finished within 60 minutes. The certificate is valid for life once you pass. Content is organized into five equally weighted objective areas: Security Concepts; Encryption; Node, Device and Storage Security; Network and Service Security; and Identity and Privacy. Expect questions on recognizing common threats, mitigating attacks on personal devices and data, applying encryption to data in transit, at rest and in the cloud, and following security best practices for accounts, private information and online profiles. To prepare, download the official 020-100 objectives from LPI, work through LPI's learning materials, and practise explaining each objective in plain language. This page is independent study material and is not affiliated with or endorsed by LPI.
What you'll study
About LPI Security Essentials preparation
How many questions are on the exam and how long do I have?
The exam contains 40 questions and must be completed within 60 minutes. That averages roughly 90 seconds per question, so pace yourself and flag anything slow rather than stalling on a single item.
What does the exam cost and where do I book it?
Pricing varies by country; LPI publishes exam pricing on its site, so check the current figure there before budgeting. Booking is handled through LPI, either at a VUE test center or online via OnVUE. Neither fee nor booking steps are fixed on this page.
Do I need Linux experience or any other prerequisite?
No. LPI states there are no prerequisites for this certificate. The exam is about general IT security for individuals and organizations, not Linux administration, so prior command-line experience is helpful but not required.
How difficult is the exam, and what trips candidates up?
It is an entry-level exam, so difficulty comes from breadth rather than depth: five domains each carrying equal weight. The most common failure mode is over-studying one favorite topic, such as encryption, while neglecting identity, privacy and device security. Cover all five domains evenly.
In which languages can I take the exam?
The source lists English only, both at VUE test centers and online through OnVUE. If you need another language, verify the current list directly with LPI before scheduling, since availability can change.
Does the certificate expire?
No. The validity period is lifetime, so once you pass the Security Essentials 020 exam you do not need to renew or retake it. This differs from some higher-level LPI certifications, which follow their own renewal rules.
What topics should I study, and in what order?
Work through the five published domains: Security Concepts, Encryption, Node, Device and Storage Security, Network and Service Security, and Identity and Privacy. Start with Security Concepts for shared vocabulary, then encryption, then the three applied domains. Each domain carries equal weight, so allocate study time evenly.
What is the passing score?
The source material does not publish a passing score for this exam, so no reliable figure can be given here. Check LPI's certification FAQ or the exam objectives page for any official statement before you sit the exam.
How should I prepare in the final week?
Re-read the official 020-100 objectives and, for each bullet, explain in plain language what the risk is and what control mitigates it. Use LPI's learning materials and practice questions to check recall, and rehearse time management at 90 seconds per question.