About the Authors

Headshot of Darril Gibson

Darril Gibson

After a 22 year Navy career working with computers and electronics, Darril Gibson set a goal for himself. He decided he wanted to become a full-time author and write books that help others. He authored, coauthored, or contributed to more than 40 books. One of his true joys in life was receiving emails from readers letting him know about their successes after using one of his books.

Over the years, Darril earned multiple certifications, including CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, CASP, and CTT+; (ISC)2 SSCP and CISSP; Microsoft MCT, MCSA, MCSE, MCITP, MCTS, MCDST, MCAD, MCSD, and MCDST.

Darril authored books on CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+ core certifications, ISC(2) SSCP and CISSP security certifications, and multiple Microsoft certifications. He also wrote two books on success, including "You Can Do Anything: Three Simple Steps to Success for Graduates" and "7 Life Lessons: Powerful Principles for Living a Fulfilled Life."

Darril Gibson was a passionate educator and author who dedicated his career to helping thousands of people earn their certifications and advance their careers. Sadly, Darril passed away in 2022. His impact endures in his books and in all the lives he touched.

Headshot of Joe Shelley

Joe ShellEy

Joe Shelley, M.A., Security+, CIPP/US, CIPM, is a Chief Information Officer working in higher education. He oversees information security and privacy programs, IT infrastructure, IT risk management, business intelligence and analytics, data governance, and IT services. Joe also has co-authored study guides for the IAPP CIPP/US and CIPM certifications exams.

In 2022, Darril Gibson and his family transferred authorship of the bestselling CompTIA Security+ Get Certified Get Ahead: Study Guide series to Joe. With the release of the SY0-701 edition of the Study Guide, Joe is honored to ensure that Darril’s series continues to help thousands more get certified and get ahead.