The Raspberry Pi is an inexpensive, credit-card sized computer created in 2009 by the Raspberry Pi Foundation, a UK-based charity that is dedicated to bringing programming capabilities and computing power to the hands of people all over the world.
Though the tiny device was originally created to motivate a younger audience to get involved with technology, the small computer has become popular among a much larger audience, ranging from digital artists to hackers.
This versatile device offers an extensive amount of hardware for about $35, which makes it a great tool for hands-on lessons and experiments in preparation for CompTIA certification exams.
Using the Raspberry Pi to Practice IT Skills
The most recent model released, the Raspberry Pi 4, offers the following features:
- BCM2711B0, quad-core 1.5GHz system-on-chip
- On-board Gigabit Ethernet, wireless LAN and Bluetooth allow for full-speed network connectivity
- 2x USB 3.0 ports enable high-speed connectivity for storage and accelerator hardware devices
- 2× micro-HDMI ports can connect to two 4K displays at speeds up to 4Kp30 or a single display at 4Kp60
Additional features include the following:
- 2x USB 2.0 ports
- 1GB, 2GB, or 4GB RAM
- DSI display port and CSI camera port
- 3.5mm audio jack
- Micro-SD card slot
- USB-C power
Why Consider the Raspberry Pi?
The Raspberry Pi takes IT back to basics. As a small, inexpensive computer with minimum requirements, the device is very accessible and provides a fun environment for experimenting with programming and electronics.
Specifically, the customizable computer is a wonderful option for personal projects. With interchangeable SD cards on its board, you can alter the functionality of your computer without wasting time and resources re-installing software.
The Raspberry Pi also has future expansion capabilities, which means you can modify it to meet your own requirements. This makes it a low-cost alternative for IT pros, such as software developers and network engineers, to test their systems.
The small, noise-free device performs these functions of a laptop and desktop, but with a smaller carbon-footprint. The tiny computer provides a greener and ethical alternative to higher-functioning computers that require more energy and complex cooling systems.
The Raspberry Pi makes creative experimentation with computers simple, fun and environmentally friendly.
Things to Know About the Raspberry Pi
The Raspberry Pi cannot completely replace your computer. Its slower processor means that complex graphical applications, like word processors and web browsers, run more slowly on Raspberry Pi than on a PC. Moreover, it's not compatible with all the Windows operating systems and Linux distributions that you may want to use.
You’ll also need to purchase extra accessories, such as the SD card, USB power supply and keyboard, which brings the startup cost to more than $35.
Prepare for IT Certifications with Raspberry Pi
As Oliver Bailey, a platform engineer and architect, said, “There is nothing you can do on a desktop that you can't do on the Raspberry Pi.”
Here are specific ways you can take advantage of the Raspberry Pi’s features in the certification process:
- Learn how to program: Raspberry Pi supports several programming languages, including Python, C, C++ and Java. With plenty of room for creativity, you can build proficiency in these languages in fun ways. Du’An Lightfoot, an IT pro and YouTube star, uses Python scripts on his Raspberry Pi to automate his Twitter accounts and creates educational games for his kids.
- Practice PC building: To use the Raspberry Pi, you will identify and connect hardware components and devices. This can strengthen your hardware and network troubleshooting skills, which are essential to the CompTIA A+ certification exam.
- Become familiar with Linux: Raspberry Pi works in an open-source ecosystem, which makes it a great tool for learning Linux from the ground up. With its own Debian-based operating system, Raspbian, you’ll get hands-on experience on the Linux command line and strengthen your understanding, preparing you for the CompTIA Linux+ certification exam.
- Explore networking concepts: If you purchase two or more Raspberry Pi computers, you can practice creating and managing a network. Build your networking skills as you study for CompTIA Network+ or other networking certifications.
- Build a cloud computing system: Setting itself apart from other single-board computers, the Raspberry Pi provides all the components needed to place projects in the cloud. Creating a cloud computing system from scratch will help prepare you for the CompTIA Cloud+ certification exam.
Overall, Raspberry Pi can help you practice the hands-on skills you need throughout the certification process. Whether you want experience with hardware or software, the device helps you build the IT skills you will need to ace your IT certification exam.
Ready to explore which IT certs are best for you? Check out What IT Certification Should I Get?
