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Tools of the Trade: Linux and SQL by Google

An excellent starting point for aspiring cybersecurity professionals seeking practical skills in Linux and SQL.

access

Lifetime

level

Beginner

certificate

Certificate of completion

language

English

What you will learn in Tools of the Trade: Linux and SQL by Google Course

  • Understand the relationship between operating systems, applications, and hardware.
  • Compare graphical user interfaces (GUI) and command-line interfaces (CLI).
  • Navigate and manage file systems using Linux commands via the Bash shell.

  • Authenticate and authorize users using Linux commands.
  • Describe the organization of relational databases.
  • Use SQL to retrieve and manipulate data from databases, including applying filters and joining multiple tables.

Program Overview

Introduction to Operating Systems

⏱️ 2 hours

  • Explore the fundamentals of operating systems and their interaction with hardware and software.
  • Understand the differences between GUI and CLI.​​​

The Linux Operating System

⏱️ 5 hours

  • Learn about Linux architecture and common distributions.
  • Understand how the Linux shell facilitates user interaction with the OS.

Linux Commands in the Bash Shell

⏱️7 hours

  • Practice using Bash to navigate and manage the file system.
  • Learn to authenticate and authorize users via the command line.​​

Databases and SQL

⏱️7 hours

  • Understand relational database structures.
  • Use SQL to query databases, apply filters, and join tables.​​​​

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Job Outlook

  • Proficiency in Linux and SQL is essential for roles in cybersecurity, system administration, and data analysis.
  • Skills gained from this course are applicable to positions such as Security Analyst, System Administrator, and Database Administrator.​
  • Understanding of command-line tools and database querying enhances job readiness in tech-related fields.​
9.6Expert Score
Highly Recommended
The "Tools of the Trade: Linux and SQL" course offers a solid foundation for individuals aiming to enter the cybersecurity field. With practical exercises and real-world applications, learners can build essential skills that are directly applicable in the industry.​
Value
9.3
Price
9.4
Skills
9.7
Information
9.5
PROS
  • Beginner-friendly with no prior experience required.​
  • Hands-on assignments that reinforce learning.​
  • Taught by industry professionals from Google.​
  • Flexible schedule allowing learners to progress at their own pace.​
CONS
  • Requires a commitment of approximately 5–10 hours per week over 4 weeks.​
  • Some learners may need additional resources to delve deeper into advanced topics beyond the course scope.​

Specification: Tools of the Trade: Linux and SQL by Google

access

Lifetime

level

Beginner

certificate

Certificate of completion

language

English

FAQs

  • The course is structured into 4 modules over approximately 20 hours of content.
  • Most learners progress through it in about 2 weeks, following a schedule of ~10 hours per week.
  • It’s fully self-paced, making it easy to fit into your schedule—whether you go faster or take additional time.
  • Some external sources estimate total time around 25 hours, depending on optional practice and repetition.
  • This course is labeled Beginner-level and explicitly states that no prior experience is required.
  • It starts from the very basics, including the relationship between GUIs, operating systems, and command lines, before moving into Linux and SQL.
  • Thus, it’s perfectly suited for those new to IT, Linux, or SQL.
  • The course includes highly interactive labs, delivered through live environments like Qwiklabs. Learners often describe them as puzzle-like and engaging.
  • You’ll practice real-world tasks—Linux command navigation, permission management, and SQL querying—earning instant feedback.

Strengths:

  • Rated 4.8/5 with 98% learner approval, signaling very high satisfaction.
  • The course stands out for its practical, real-world orientation, particularly focused on security workflows.
  • The labs are praised for their clarity—they’re easy to follow and troubleshoot, making learning seamless.

Limitations:

  • As an introductory course, it doesn’t cover advanced topics like server administration, database optimization, or scripting automation.
  • Community engagement (discussion forums) is minimal—learners rely more on self-guidance and external resources to deepen learning.
  • Continue through the other modules of the Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate to gain deeper skills in cybersecurity domains.
  • Supplement with open learning resources or GitHub walkthroughs to build real proficiency and confidence.
  • Practice on your own—build scripts, automate tasks with bash, interact with real SQL databases, or explore Linux distributions to reinforce your learning.
Tools of the Trade: Linux and SQL by Google
Tools of the Trade: Linux and SQL by Google
Course | Career Focused Learning Platform
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