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README.md |
Hi, I'm Darnell!
Security Engineer

About Me
My name is Darnell Keith, and I am an aspiring security professional and Navy veteran with a strong background in IT, sales, and e-commerce. What drew me to cybersecurity was the same curiosity I had as a kid—taking things apart to see how they worked, then putting them back together. That habit evolved into a passion for understanding and securing systems.
I believe security professionals shouldn't be confined to a single discipline—true understanding comes from a holistic view of how systems interact. I learn, build, and operate with that mindset every day.
📖 Background
Things started early as a teen in the mid-90s—taking things apart to see how they worked, spending hours on IRC and Microsoft ILS servers, and yes... sharing Back Orifice files (if you know, you know). That curiosity never left.
Serving aboard the USS Kitty Hawk, a steam-powered aircraft carrier, taught me discipline, structure, and how complex systems operate under pressure. After the Navy, I explored IT, sales, and eventually built and ran my own e-commerce businesses, incorporating two things I'm passionate about: fitness and tech.
Those experiences shaped how I think about security: layered, resilient, and people-centered. I eventually shifted toward cybersecurity, with strong interests in network security and identity and access management. These days, I've developed an appreciation for all areas of cybersecurity, but I find the most enjoyment in building and configuring systems. That's exactly what I do every day in my private home cloud.
I'm committed to learning constantly and building secure systems.
🔒 Security Projects:
- AD Sync with Okta
- Okta Policies & Conditional Access
- Azure SOC with Sentinel
- Protecting Sensitive Data with IPsec
🎓 Education:
Bachelor of Science Cybersecurity and Information Assurance Western Governors University |
Master of Science Cybersecurity and Information Assurance Western Governors University Starting November 2025 |
🛡️ Certifications
![]() GCIH |
![]() GSEC |
![]() PenTest+ |
![]() Project+ |
![]() CySA+ |
![]() SSCP |
![]() CCNA |
![]() JNCIA |
In Progress:
- CCSP (7-15-2025)
- Okta Professional (8-23-25)
📚 Other Projects:
- BAIC Institute
- NAXS LABS (Under Construction)