Author Interview: Michael Gregg

Coauthor of Security Administrator Street Smarts: A Real World Guide to CompTIA Security+ Skills

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GoCertify: Which Security+ domain receives the most emphasis on the actual certification exam, and how can a candidate best master this domain?

Michael Gregg: The Security+ exam is divided into five domains which include:

General Security
Communication Security
Infrastructure Security
Basics of Cryptography
Operational / Organizational Security

General Security Concepts and Communication Concepts make up about 50% of the exam. These domains include things such as password cracking, viruses, malware, Internet security concepts, and email security concepts. If we just consider one segment of this such as email. It's a huge concern. Everyone uses email but by default, it's plagued with problems. Its clear text can be spoofed and used by spammers.

General Security
Communication Security
Infrastructure Security
Basics of Cryptography
Operational / Organizational Security

The best way to master these topics is by not only understanding how the technology works but also by performing tasks to understand its operation.

GoCertify: How long would it take to go through the book and do all the scenarios?

Michael Gregg: I think this all depends on the reader. At a comfortable pace, a reader can work through these scenarios in a few weeks to a month. What's important here is not to rush through but really explore the technology where the reader can gain proficiency.

GoCertify: Can a Security+ certification candidate prepare for and pass the certification exam using only this book or will they need additional resources?

Michael Gregg: I think that all depends on the reader, but realistically, the book was designed to augment the skills that the Security+ certification teaches in theory. While theory is the basis of understanding for most of us, real learning requires moving beyond that point to an application of skills.

GoCertify: How could this book be useful to people who are not necessarily pursing Security+ certification?

Michael Gregg: This book is useful to anyone wanting to learn more about how to apply basic security best practices and skills. If you're the type to setup your own home network to learn more about security, you will enjoy this book.

GoCertify: Why do you have so many IT certifications, and which have proved most valuable to you?

Michael Gregg: That's a good question. Personally, I believe that there is no standing still in this industry. You are either moving forward or falling behind. I continue to certify because there is always something new to learn. As for which certification has been most valuable? That is hard for me to say as I have learned something from all of them. I believe that having the desire to learn more and being open to new ideas and concepts is what keeps you current in this industry.

In addition to being a well-done study guide with hands-on skill training, Mike's new book is a great primer on Internet security skills that every one can benefit from knowin.

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