RHCSA Cheat Sheet for EX200 Certification (2025 Updated)

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• User and Group Management
• File Permissions and Ownership
• Networking and Firewall
• Storage and Mounting
• Boot Process and Systemd
• Package Management (YUM/DNF)
• SELinux and Security
• Cron Jobs and Scheduling
• Conclusion

Introduction

The RHCSA EX200 exam is a hands-on, performance-based test that validates your Linux administration skills. This cheat sheet provides quick-access commands and core topics aligned with the Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) objectives.

User and Group Management

• useradd username – Add new user
• passwd username – Set user password
• usermod -aG groupname username – Add user to a group
• groupadd groupname – Create new group
• id username – Show user's UID, GID, and groups
• chage -l username – List password aging info

File Permissions and Ownership

• chmod u+x file – Add execute to owner
• chown user:group file – Change ownership
• umask – Show default permission mask
• getfacl /path – View ACLs
• setfacl -m u:username:rwx /file – Modify ACL

Networking and Firewall

• nmcli dev status – Check network devices
• nmcli con up "connection-name" – Start connection
• ip addr – Show IP addresses
• firewall-cmd --add-service=http --permanent – Open firewall port
• firewall-cmd --reload – Reload firewall
• ss -tuln – List listening ports

Storage and Mounting

• lsblk – List block devices
• fdisk /dev/sdX – Partition disk
• mkfs.xfs /dev/sdX1 – Format partition
• mount /dev/sdX1 /mnt – Mount partition
• df -h – Show mounted disks
• vim /etc/fstab – Add persistent mount

Boot Process and Systemd

• systemctl status service – Show service status
• systemctl enable service – Enable service at boot
• journalctl -xe – View system logs
• grubby --default-kernel – View default boot kernel
• dracut -f – Rebuild initramfs

Package Management (YUM/DNF)

• dnf install package – Install package
• dnf remove package – Remove package
• dnf update – Update system
• dnf groupinstall "Server with GUI" – Install package group
• rpm -q package – Check if package is installed

SELinux and Security

• getenforce – Show SELinux status
• setenforce 0 – Set SELinux to permissive
• sestatus – Show SELinux mode
• semanage port -l – List SELinux port contexts
• restorecon -Rv /path – Restore SELinux contexts

Cron Jobs and Scheduling

• crontab -e – Edit user cron
• systemctl list-timers – View timers
• at now + 1 minute – Schedule one-time job
• systemctl start/stop timer – Manage systemd timers

FAQ's

What is the RHCSA EX200 exam?

The RHCSA EX200 is a hands-on certification exam offered by Red Hat that tests your skills in Linux system administration, including file systems, user management, networking, and essential command-line operations.

Is the RHCSA certification still valuable in 2025?

Yes, RHCSA remains one of the most respected certifications in the IT industry for Linux system administrators. It's widely recognized by employers looking for professionals with strong Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) skills.

What topics are covered in the RHCSA EX200 exam?

The exam includes tasks like managing users and groups, configuring storage, setting file permissions, basic security, networking, shell scripting, and managing services in RHEL 9.

How many questions are on the RHCSA EX200 exam?

The RHCSA EX200 is a performance-based exam. Instead of traditional questions, you'll complete real-world tasks on a live system within a 3-hour time limit.

Is there a specific Linux distribution I need to learn for the exam?

Yes, the RHCSA focuses on Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), particularly version 9 as of the 2025 update. You should practice on a RHEL 9 environment or compatible CentOS/AlmaLinux setup.

How can a cheat sheet help in preparing for the RHCSA exam?

A cheat sheet summarizes critical commands, configuration steps, and administrative tasks in one place, helping you quickly revise key topics before the exam.

Can I pass the RHCSA EX200 without industry experience?

Yes, many candidates pass without prior job experience by practicing extensively on virtual machines, completing labs, and using official Red Hat training materials.

What are some essential commands to know for the RHCSA?

Important commands include `useradd`, `chmod`, `chown`, `nmcli`, `systemctl`, `firewall-cmd`, `lsblk`, `parted`, `tar`, `scp`, and basic shell scripting using `bash`.

How do I prepare effectively using a RHCSA cheat sheet?

Use the cheat sheet alongside hands-on labs. Practice each command in a virtual environment and understand its real-world usage rather than just memorizing.

Where can I download a free RHCSA cheat sheet?

Reliable RHCSA cheat sheets are available from training providers like WebAsha Technologies, GitHub repositories, or official Red Hat course materials.

Is shell scripting important for RHCSA?

Yes, basic shell scripting is tested. You'll need to understand how to write and execute simple scripts to automate system tasks and configurations.

Are practice exams useful for RHCSA preparation?

Absolutely. Practice exams simulate the test environment and help identify your weak areas. They also improve time management and confidence before the actual exam.

How long should I study before attempting the RHCSA exam?

It depends on your background. For beginners, 2–3 months of consistent study and practice is recommended. Daily lab practice is crucial for passing the hands-on exam.

Do I need to memorize all Linux commands?

No, but you should be very familiar with frequently used commands and able to apply them quickly during the exam. Knowing command syntax and usage is essential.

What tools or labs should I use for hands-on RHCSA practice?

You can use Red Hat-provided virtual machines, self-hosted RHEL installations, or cloud platforms like AWS. WebAsha’s RHCSA training includes access to real-time labs.

Can I retake the RHCSA exam if I fail?

Yes, but you’ll need to pay for the exam again. That’s why thorough preparation using cheat sheets, mock exams, and labs is highly recommended before your first attempt.

Is the RHCSA certification valid internationally?

Yes, RHCSA is globally recognized and respected by employers worldwide. It adds significant value to your resume, especially in system admin, DevOps, and cloud roles.

What changes have been made in the 2025 RHCSA syllabus?

The 2025 update reflects changes in RHEL 9, focusing more on automation, systemd services, network management using `nmcli`, and newer security tools.

Can I use this cheat sheet during the RHCSA exam?

No, the exam is closed book. Cheat sheets are meant for preparation only. However, mastering their content can significantly improve your exam readiness.

Where can I enroll for RHCSA training with a cheat sheet and real-time labs?

You can enroll at WebAsha Technologies, Pune. They provide industry-aligned RHCSA training, expert mentorship, downloadable cheat sheets, and real-world lab environments.

Conclusion

This RHCSA cheat sheet is tailored for quick revision before your EX200 exam. While memorizing commands is helpful, practicing them in a real Linux environment like a home lab or training platform is critical. Combine this cheat sheet with hands-on tasks and you’ll be ready to ace the RHCSA certification in your first attempt.