Security Fundamentals

298 questions

Question 21Question

Match each VPN implementation type or protocol combination on the left with its corresponding operational characteristic on the right.

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

Clientless SSL VPN
IPsec Site-to-Site VPN
GRE over IPsec VPN
Client-based Remote Access VPN

Matches

Show answer & explanation

Answer

Clientless SSL VPN matches browser-based access without dedicated software; IPsec Site-to-Site VPN matches static tunnel connecting permanent gateways; GRE over IPsec VPN matches encapsulation of multicast and routing protocols before encryption; Client-based Remote Access VPN matches endpoint software providing full Layer 3 access.
Each match correctly aligns the VPN architecture with its technical implementation constraint. Clientless SSL VPN enables browser-only web access without software installation; IPsec Site-to-Site securely interconnects fixed branch locations; GRE over IPsec allows multicast and dynamic routing over an encrypted tunnel; Client-based Remote Access VPN utilizes software installed on the endpoint to provide full Layer 3 network connectivity.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the requirements for remote access vs site-to-site topologies.
Identified that fixed gateway connectivity corresponds to Site-to-Site IPsec, while individual end-user connection models split into Clientless and Client-based Remote Access VPNs.
Topology type dictates whether gateways or endpoints initiate and terminate the tunnel.
2
Differentiate Clientless SSL VPN from Client-based Remote Access VPN.
Clientless uses web browsers for web application proxy access; Client-based requires installed software (e.g., AnyConnect) for full Layer 3 subnet connectivity.
Client software determines the depth of network access provided to the endpoint device.
3
Evaluate transport limitations of IPsec vs GRE over IPsec.
Native IPsec only supports IP unicast packets, requiring GRE encapsulation to carry routing protocol multicast packets through an IPsec encrypted tunnel.
Dynamic routing protocols depend on multicast packets to form neighbor adjacencies across VPN tunnels.

Key Concept

Remote Access and Site-to-Site VPN Architectures and Capabilities
Question 22Question

Match each Virtual Private Network (VPN) technology or protocol component on the left with its corresponding operational characteristic or security capability on the right.

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

Encapsulating Security Payload (ESP)
Authentication Header (AH)
Internet Key Exchange Version 2 (IKEv2)
Clientless SSL/TLS VPN

Matches

Show answer & explanation

Answer

Encapsulating Security Payload (ESP) matches payload encryption and integrity; Authentication Header (AH) matches unencrypted integrity for the entire IP packet; Internet Key Exchange Version 2 (IKEv2) matches control-plane SA negotiation with EAP/NAT-T support; Clientless SSL/TLS VPN matches web browser portal access to corporate applications without client software.
Each technology is paired with its precise functional domain: ESP delivers encrypted payload security; AH provides unencrypted authentication across the header; IKEv2 negotiates control-plane SAs with EAP and NAT-T capabilities; and Clientless SSL VPN provides browser-restricted access without endpoint software requirements.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze IPsec Data Plane Protocols
Identify that ESP provides payload encryption and authentication (protocol 50), whereas AH provides packet-wide authentication without encryption (protocol 51).
Differentiating between ESP and AH is fundamental to IPsec security design.
2
Evaluate Key Management Control Plane Protocols
Recognize that IKEv2 negotiates SAs dynamically and includes native improvements over IKEv1, such as EAP integration and reliable NAT-T execution.
IKEv2 manages tunnel setup and identity authentication in modern VPN implementations.
3
Distinguish Remote Access Deployment Models
Match Clientless SSL/TLS VPN to browser-based application access that requires no endpoint client software deployment.
Clientless SSL VPNs operate at the application layer to provide constrained portal access.

Key Concept

IPsec and SSL VPN Protocol Frameworks
Question 23Question

Match each Cisco Layer 2 security feature to its primary function in mitigating network attacks.

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

Port Security
DHCP Snooping
Dynamic ARP Inspection (DAI)

Matches

Show answer & explanation

Answer

Port Security pairs with restricting MAC addresses allowed on an interface. DHCP Snooping pairs with filtering rogue DHCP server packets and maintaining the DHCP binding database. Dynamic ARP Inspection pairs with validating ARP packets against the DHCP binding database.
Port Security controls frame forwarding by restricting access to specified MAC addresses. DHCP Snooping protects against rogue DHCP servers and creates the IP-to-MAC binding table. Dynamic ARP Inspection inspects ARP packets against this binding table to stop ARP poisoning.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Determine the primary operational role of Port Security.
Port Security restricts interface access based on learned or configured MAC addresses.
It prevents unauthorized devices from attaching to switch ports and limits MAC flooding.
2
Determine the primary operational role of DHCP Snooping.
DHCP Snooping acts as a L2 firewall between untrusted hosts and DHCP servers.
It drops unauthorized DHCP server offers on untrusted ports and populates the IP-to-MAC binding table.
3
Determine the primary operational role of Dynamic ARP Inspection (DAI).
DAI inspects ARP packets on untrusted switch interfaces.
It uses the binding database established by DHCP Snooping to validate ARP requests and responses, mitigating man-in-the-middle attacks.

Key Concept

Layer 2 Security Features (Port Security, DHCP Snooping, DAI)
Question 24Question

An enterprise network security team is evaluating its defense-in-depth posture across a multi-tenant facility hosting critical infrastructure. How should each specific security measure be matched to its primary security program element or physical control category?

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

Mandatory quarterly simulated phishing exercises accompanied by automated user reporting drills
Biometric fingerprint authentication paired with anti-passback electronic turnstiles at facility entry points
Formal security incident escalation procedures and documented employee offboarding credential revocation policies
Locking equipment rack enclosures equipped with micro-switch chassis intrusion sensors connected to an alarm panel

Matches

Show answer & explanation

Answer

The correct matches align each operational security initiative with its designated classification: (1) Simulated phishing and user reporting drills match the User Security Awareness Program; (2) Biometric turnstiles match Physical Access Control Mechanisms; (3) Escalation workflows and offboarding policies match Administrative Security Governance; (4) Locked equipment cabinets with tamper sensors match Physical Asset Protection & Tamper Monitoring.
Each security measure correctly maps to its standard functional category within Cisco CCNA security program fundamentals: phishing simulations develop human security awareness; biometric turnstiles control physical perimeter entry; incident response and offboarding rules provide administrative governance; and locked cabinets with intrusion alarms provide physical protection for hardware assets.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the operational focus of each security measure on the left to determine whether it addresses human behavior, physical entry, administrative policy, or asset containment.
Identified four distinct security domains: human risk reduction, perimeter access restriction, policy governance, and equipment-level physical protection.
Classifying security elements requires differentiating administrative policies, physical barriers, physical asset protection, and educational programs.
2
Associate simulated phishing drills with human defense mechanisms.
Pairs with User Security Awareness Program.
Phishing simulations educate staff and evaluate their ability to spot malicious communications, strengthening the human security perimeter.
3
Associate biometric turnstiles with physical facility entry control.
Pairs with Physical Access Control Mechanism.
Biometric scanners and physical turnstiles physically impede unauthorized entry into building zones.
4
Associate incident escalation guidelines and offboarding revocation procedures with operational governance.
Pairs with Administrative Security Governance.
Administrative controls consist of written policies, standard operating procedures, and management guidelines that govern organizational actions.
5
Associate locking cabinets and chassis tamper switches with hardware protection.
Pairs with Physical Asset Protection & Tamper Monitoring.
Locking racks and tamper sensors physically secure installed networking hardware against unauthorized physical tampering or theft.

Key Concept

Classification of Security Program Elements and Physical Access Controls
Question 25Question

A network engineer deploys Dynamic ARP Inspection (DAI) and DHCP Snooping on VLAN 30 of a Cisco Catalyst switch. A workstation connected to an untrusted access port is configured with a static IPv4 address rather than obtaining one via DHCP. When the workstation attempts to communicate with the default gateway, all of its traffic is dropped at the switch port. Which command sequence should be configured on the switch to permit ARP traffic from this statically configured host while maintaining DAI protection?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Define an ARP access list matching the static IP and MAC address, then apply it using the command ip arp inspection filter <ACL_NAME> vlan 30.

Answer

Define an ARP access list matching the static IP and MAC address, then apply it using the command ip arp inspection filter <ACL_NAME> vlan 30.
Dynamic ARP Inspection (DAI) intercept and validates all ARP requests and responses on untrusted ports against the DHCP snooping binding database. For hosts configured with static IP addresses, no entry exists in the DHCP binding database, causing DAI to drop their ARP packets. To permit static hosts while keeping DAI active, administrators must create an ARP access list defining the static IP-to-MAC pair and apply it globally to the VLAN using the command 'ip arp inspection filter <ACL_NAME> vlan <VLAN_ID>'.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify why traffic from the statically addressed host is being dropped.
DAI drops ARP packets received on untrusted ports if the IP-to-MAC mapping is absent from the DHCP snooping binding database.
Statically configured hosts do not participate in DHCP exchanges, so they lack entries in the DHCP snooping table.
2
Determine the Cisco IOS mechanism to manually permit static IP-to-MAC bindings in DAI.
An ARP Access Control List (ARP ACL) must be created containing the host's static IP and MAC address.
ARP ACLs provide a static fallback validation mechanism for DAI.
3
Apply the ARP ACL to the target VLAN.
Executing 'ip arp inspection filter <ACL_NAME> vlan 30' binds the ARP ACL to VLAN 30.
This instructs DAI to check incoming ARP packets against the static ARP ACL before consulting the DHCP binding database.

Key Concept

DAI Static ARP ACL Integration
Estimated Time:1m 30s
Question 26Question

A network administrator wants to encrypt all cleartext passwords stored in a Cisco IOS router's running configuration file, including console line passwords and legacy user passwords. Which global configuration command accomplishes this task?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: service password-encryption

Answer

The command 'service password-encryption' globally obfuscates all current and future cleartext passwords in the configuration file using Type 7 encryption.
Executing 'service password-encryption' in global configuration mode instructs Cisco IOS to apply Cisco Type 7 encryption to all stored plain-text passwords in the running configuration, such as those set via 'line console 0' or legacy 'username' commands.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the goal
The requirement is to convert existing and future plain-text passwords across line configurations and local accounts into encrypted strings within the running configuration.
By default, commands like 'password' under line configuration or legacy 'username password' store passwords in plain text.
2
Evaluate Cisco IOS commands for configuration-wide password obfuscation
Entering 'service password-encryption' in global configuration mode immediately encrypts all unencrypted passwords using Cisco Type 7 encryption.
This command specifically targets configuration file display security rather than individual authentication modes.

Key Concept

Cisco IOS Global Password Encryption
Question 27Question

An administrator configures port security on an enterprise access switch interface using the switchport port-security mac-address sticky command to restrict network access to authorized devices. Endpoints connect successfully and their hardware addresses are added to the active configuration as sticky entries. Following an unexpected power maintenance event, the switch reboots. When the authorized endpoints attempt to reconnect, port security violation alerts are triggered and traffic is blocked. Which administrative oversight caused this issue after the switch rebooted?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: The administrator failed to save the running configuration to the startup configuration after the sticky MAC addresses were learned.

Answer

The administrator failed to copy the running configuration containing the learned sticky MAC addresses to the startup configuration prior to the reboot.
The command switchport port-security mac-address sticky dynamically learns connected MAC addresses and converts them into sticky secure MAC address entries in the running configuration (stored in volatile RAM). If the administrator does not save the running configuration to the startup configuration (stored in NVRAM) using copy running-config startup-config or write memory, all learned MAC addresses are lost upon reboot. When the switch comes back online, its sticky MAC table is empty, causing returning authorized devices to be flagged as unknown/unauthorized and triggering security violations.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze how sticky MAC address learning operates in Cisco IOS port security.
When sticky MAC learning is enabled, dynamically learned MAC addresses are automatically added to the running configuration (RAM).
Sticky MAC entries allow dynamic learning without requiring manual static MAC entry CLI typing.
2
Evaluate the effect of a device reboot on RAM vs. NVRAM.
Unsaved changes stored only in RAM (running configuration) are erased when the switch reboots.
Only startup configuration stored in NVRAM persists across switch reboots.
3
Determine why violations occurred post-reboot.
Because the sticky MAC entries were erased during the reboot, reconnecting devices were treated as unauthorized MAC addresses, triggering port security violations.
Saving the configuration with copy running-config startup-config is mandatory to persist sticky MAC entries across reboots.

Key Concept

Port Security Sticky MAC Address Persistence
Question 28Question

A network administrator inspects a Cisco IOS router configuration and observes the following line:

`username admin privilege 15 secret 9 99 eG8H$kQzP8xY...`

Which encryption algorithm or password type is used to secure the password for this local account?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: scrypt (Type 9)

Answer

The scrypt algorithm (Type 9) is used to hash the password.
In Cisco IOS software, configuring a password with the 'secret 9' keyword applies the scrypt hashing algorithm to protect the local credential in the running configuration.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Examine the CLI syntax from the running configuration line.
The CLI keyword 'secret 9' and the identifier '99' specify the exact password algorithm type.
Cisco IOS explicitly maps numeric type identifiers to specific hash algorithms.
2
Correlate the Cisco IOS password type number to its algorithm.
Type 9 corresponds to the scrypt password-hashing algorithm.
scrypt was introduced in Cisco IOS to provide stronger security than legacy Type 5 (MD5) and Type 7 (Vigenère) methods.

Key Concept

Cisco IOS Local Password Hashing Types
Question 29Question

A network technician is tasked with securing direct physical access to a Cisco switch console. Which two configuration steps are required to ensure that users connecting through the console port are authenticated against user accounts stored in the local device database? (Select two.)

Select all that apply

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Configure the 'login local' command under line console 0 configuration mode.; Define a user account using the 'username <name> secret <password>' command in global configuration mode.

Answer

To enforce local database authentication on the console line, a user account must be created in global configuration mode using 'username <name> secret <password>', and the console line must be configured with 'login local'.
Local authentication requires both a local database entry (created via global configuration 'username secret') and telling the specific line interface to check that database (using 'login local' under line console 0).

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Define local user credentials
User accounts are created in the local device database using global configuration commands.
The router or switch requires predefined accounts in its running configuration to perform local authentication.
2
Enable local authentication on the console line
Entering 'line console 0' and configuring 'login local' directs authentication attempts to the local user database.
Without 'login local', the line will either use a simple line password or allow unauthenticated access depending on default settings.

Key Concept

Local User Database Authentication on Cisco IOS Lines
Question 30Question

An enterprise network security team is establishing formal terminology for a security awareness program. Match each fundamental security concept on the left to its corresponding description on the right.

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

Vulnerability
Threat
Risk
Exploit

Matches

Show answer & explanation

Answer

Vulnerability matches with 'A flaw or weakness in system design, configuration, or software code that leaves an asset exposed.'; Threat matches with 'Any potential circumstance, event, or malicious actor with the capability to cause harm or disrupt operations.'; Risk matches with 'The operational or financial impact resulting from the probability that a specific weakness will be targeted.'; Exploit matches with 'A specific payload, script, or procedure crafted to leverage a system weakness to gain unauthorized access.'
Vulnerability describes internal weaknesses in design or code. Threat identifies potential external forces or malicious actors that cause harm. Risk quantifies the financial or operational impact of a threat targeting a vulnerability. Exploit defines the specific payload or script used to attack a flaw.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify internal system weaknesses
Map Vulnerability to the description of system flaws, configuration errors, or software bugs.
Vulnerabilities reside within the target infrastructure regardless of whether an active attack occurs.
2
Identify potential external or environmental hazards
Map Threat to potential circumstances or actors capable of causing disruption or harm.
Threats represent potential sources of danger, such as malware, hackers, or natural disasters.
3
Analyze probability and potential consequences
Map Risk to the calculated likelihood and organizational impact of a security incident.
Risk evaluates the intersection where an active threat capability targets an existing vulnerability.
4
Identify attack weaponization tools
Map Exploit to software payloads or procedures designed to take advantage of system weaknesses.
An exploit is the specific code or sequence of commands used by an adversary to abuse a flaw.

Key Concept

Key Security Concepts, Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations
Question 31Question

A network administrator runs the `show running-config` command on a Cisco switch and observes the following user configuration entry:

`username netadmin secret 5 11 mER7$19f.aB3z7QkL9p0`

Which statement accurately describes the security mechanism used to store this password?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: The password is hashed using the MD5 algorithm (Type 5).

Answer

The password is hashed using the MD5 algorithm (Type 5).
The option stating that the password is hashed using the MD5 algorithm (Type 5) is correct because the number 5 following the 'secret' keyword in Cisco IOS configuration syntax indicates an MD5 cryptographic hash. MD5 hashing creates a one-way digest to secure local user credentials.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the configuration string syntax.
Identify the keyword 'secret' followed by the algorithm indicator '5'.
Cisco IOS uses numeric identifiers following the 'secret' or 'password' keyword to denote the encryption or hashing algorithm used.
2
Map the numerical identifier to the corresponding cryptographic algorithm.
Identifier 5 corresponds to the MD5 password hash (Type 5).
Type 0 is plain text, Type 7 is weak reversible encryption, Type 5 is MD5 hashing, Type 8 is PBKDF2 SHA-256, and Type 9 is scrypt.

Key Concept

Cisco IOS Password Types and Hashing Algorithms
Question 32Question

Match each Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) component on the left with its primary function on the right.

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

Certificate Authority (CA)
Certificate Signing Request (CSR)
Certificate Revocation List (CRL)
Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)

Matches

Show answer & explanation

Answer

Certificate Authority (CA) matches with the trusted entity that validates identities and issues certificates. Certificate Signing Request (CSR) matches with the encoded application file containing identity details and a public key. Certificate Revocation List (CRL) matches with the published record of invalidated certificates. Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) matches with the framework of policies, hardware, software, and procedures.
Matching each term to its core function correctly aligns the elements of digital certificate lifecycle management: the CA issues certificates, the CSR requests them, the CRL tracks revoked certificates, and PKI provides the overall management framework.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the role of the Certificate Authority (CA).
The CA is responsible for issuing and signing digital certificates after identity verification.
CA is the central trust entity in digital certificate deployments.
2
Identify the purpose of a Certificate Signing Request (CSR).
The CSR is the request block generated locally containing public key info sent to the CA.
Before a CA can issue a certificate, it requires the applicant's public key and identity data via a CSR.
3
Determine how revoked certificates are tracked using a CRL.
A CRL holds serial numbers of certificates prematurely revoked due to compromise or decommissioning.
Clients query CRLs (or OCSP) to ensure a presented certificate is still valid.
4
Define the overarching structure known as PKI.
PKI encompasses all tools, protocols, CAs, and policies managing public-key cryptography.
PKI is the umbrella term for the entire digital certificate ecosystem.

Key Concept

Digital Certificates and PKI Component Roles
Question 33Question

A network engineering team is updating management access policies to reduce vulnerabilities associated with credential sniffing, brute-force access attempts, and unauthenticated administrative sessions across enterprise devices. Which two security controls directly mitigate these specific vulnerabilities and threats? (Select two.)

Select all that apply

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Enforcing Secure Shell (SSH) for device management to encrypt access credentials and session data in transit; Implementing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for administrative access to prevent unauthorized logins from compromised passwords

Answer

Enforcing SSH for device management and implementing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for administrative access directly mitigate packet sniffing and credential-based unauthorized access.
Enforcing SSH encrypts administrative network traffic to prevent eavesdropping and credential theft in transit. Implementing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) adds a critical layer of defense ensuring that compromised administrative passwords alone cannot grant access to network devices.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the threat vectors described in the scenario
The identified threat vectors are credential sniffing (packet eavesdropping), unauthorized access, and brute-force/compromised password usage.
Security controls must specifically target the operational mechanisms of the identified threats and vulnerabilities.
2
Evaluate the control that addresses packet sniffing of administrative sessions
SSH provides encrypted transport for remote management traffic, ensuring passwords and commands cannot be read in cleartext over the network.
Cleartext protocols like Telnet leave management sessions vulnerable to active and passive eavesdropping.
3
Evaluate the control that addresses weak or compromised administrative passwords
Multi-Factor Authentication requires a second independent credential factor (such as a time-based token or push notification), stopping attackers who obtain static passwords.
Password complexity alone is vulnerable to phishing and brute-force attacks without multi-factor verification.

Key Concept

Key Security Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigations
Question 34Question

An administrator hardens interface GigabitEthernet1/0/5 on a Cisco Catalyst switch by executing `switchport port-security`, `switchport port-security maximum 2`, and `switchport port-security mac-address sticky`. During business hours, two authorized workstations connect to the switch port and successfully transmit data. However, following a scheduled power outage that causes an ungraceful switch reload, users report that connecting the exact same workstations to GigabitEthernet1/0/5 triggers a security violation, placing the port into an err-disabled state. Inspection via `show port-security interface gigabitEthernet1/0/5` shows a Total MAC Addresses count of 0. Which administrative oversight directly caused this loss of MAC address bindings?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: The administrator failed to execute `copy running-config startup-config` after the sticky MAC addresses were dynamically learned into the active configuration.

Answer

The administrator failed to save the running configuration to NVRAM after the sticky MAC addresses were dynamically learned.
When port security is configured with the `mac-address sticky` feature, learned MAC addresses are dynamically added to the switch's volatile running configuration (RAM). If the administrator does not save the running configuration to the startup configuration using `copy running-config startup-config` or `write memory`, any switch reload or power cycle will restore the previous startup configuration, losing all dynamically learned sticky MAC addresses. Consequently, when endpoints reconnect after the reboot, the switch sees them as unknown MAC addresses, resulting in a port security violation.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the operational mechanics of sticky MAC address learning.
When `switchport port-security mac-address sticky` is configured, the switch dynamically learns connected MAC addresses up to the configured maximum and appends them as `switchport port-security mac-address sticky <MAC>` lines directly into the running configuration in RAM.
Understanding where sticky MAC addresses are stored during runtime is critical to diagnosing reboot persistence issues.
2
Evaluate the effect of an ungraceful switch reload on volatile memory (RAM).
Because running-config resides in RAM, any switch reboot or reload clears all unsaved runtime entries unless they have been explicitly saved to startup-config in NVRAM.
If `copy running-config startup-config` (or `write memory`) is not executed, the running configuration reverts to the last saved startup configuration upon reload, removing all learned sticky MAC entries.
3
Correlate MAC count 0 and port security violation after reboot.
With 0 sticky MAC addresses saved, the switch treats the returning endpoints as unrecognized devices. Because maximum allowed MACs was reached or default security policies triggered, the incoming frames violate port security, driving the port into err-disabled state.
Confirms that missing configuration persistence in NVRAM is the root cause of the violation.

Key Concept

Port Security Sticky MAC Address Persistence
Estimated Time:2m 0s
Question 35Question

An network administrator is implementing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to secure access to network infrastructure devices. Which two of the following options represent a possession factor ('something you have')? (Select two.)

Select all that apply

Show answer & explanation

Answer: A physical hardware security token that generates time-based one-time passcodes (TOTP); An enterprise smart card inserted into a card reader for identity verification

Answer

The correct options are the physical hardware security token and the enterprise smart card.
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) requires distinct authentication factors. The physical hardware security token and the enterprise smart card both require the user to physically possess a tangible object ('something you have') to authenticate successfully.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the core authentication factor types in Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
MFA relies on three primary factor categories: Knowledge (something you know), Possession (something you have), and Inherence (something you are).
Categorizing each option under its proper factor type is required to isolate possession factors.
2
Evaluate each choice against the 'something you have' (possession) definition
Physical hardware tokens and smart cards are physical items owned or held by the user. Passwords and PINs are knowledge items (something you know), and biometric fingerprints are inherence items (something you are).
Selecting the items that require physical ownership correctly satisfies the question prompt.

Key Concept

Authentication Factor Classification in Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Question 36Question

An enterprise security analyst is categorizing security audit findings and incident events into core cybersecurity governance definitions. Match each operational scenario on the left with its corresponding fundamental security concept on the right.

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

An unpatched software bug in a border router's operating system that permits unauthorized privilege escalation.
A specialized script executed by an adversary to take advantage of a known memory overflow flaw.
A malicious actor currently attempting to perform man-in-the-middle packet interception on an unencrypted wireless link.
The potential financial loss and operational disruption resulting from a compromised customer database.

Matches

Show answer & explanation

Answer

1. Unpatched software bug matches Vulnerability. 2. Specialized script leveraging a flaw matches Exploit. 3. Malicious actor conducting packet interception matches Threat. 4. Potential financial loss and disruption matches Risk.
Each scenario maps directly to its core definition in information security governance: software flaws are vulnerabilities; malicious tools weaponizing flaws are exploits; active malicious actors/actions are threats; and the combined evaluation of potential impact and likelihood is risk.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify system weaknesses
Recognize that software bugs or improper configurations inherent to systems are vulnerabilities.
A vulnerability is a weakness in software, hardware, or procedural control.
2
Identify tools leveraging weaknesses
Recognize that software code or scripts designed to weaponize a weakness are exploits.
An exploit is the mechanism or payload used to target a specific vulnerability.
3
Identify threat actors and actions
Recognize that adversaries performing attacks represent threats.
A threat is any potential entity or event capable of exploiting a weakness to cause damage.
4
Evaluate overall organizational impact
Recognize that calculating potential harm and probability defines risk.
Risk represents the probability and business impact of a threat successfully executing an exploit against a vulnerability.

Key Concept

Fundamental Security Concepts: Threat, Vulnerability, Exploit, and Risk
Question 37Question

A network administrator is establishing password security policies on network devices to protect administrative logins from brute-force attacks. Which security policy control directly ensures that users choose strong passwords that resist dictionary attacks?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Configuring minimum length and character complexity rules

Answer

Configuring minimum length and character complexity rules directly ensures users create resilient credentials that resist dictionary and brute-force guessing attacks.
Configuring minimum length and character complexity rules is the standard control for enforcing password strength. Requiring longer passwords containing a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols significantly increases entropy and mitigates dictionary or brute-force guessing attacks.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the goal of the password security policy
The requirement is to prevent users from creating weak, easily guessed, or dictionary-vulnerable passwords.
Security policies dictate password composition rules prior to account creation or updates.
2
Evaluate the effect of password complexity and length enforcement
Requiring a combination of character types (uppercase, lowercase, numbers, symbols) along with sufficient length exponentially increases entropy.
Higher entropy prevents automated dictionary attacks from quickly discovering valid passwords.

Key Concept

Password Security Policies and Complexity Rules
Question 38Question

An organization is deploying 802.1X authentication using EAP-TLS to secure network access. During testing, a user laptop fails the TLS handshake when attempting to authenticate against the Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) RADIUS server. Inspection of the server logs reveals that the client presented a valid user certificate issued by an Intermediate Certificate Authority (CA), and the root CA certificate is present in the server's trusted store. However, the handshake fails because ISE cannot verify whether the client certificate has been revoked due to an unreachable Revocation Check endpoint. Which mechanism or component must be accessible to resolve this authentication failure?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: An accessible Online Certificate Status Protocol (OCSP) responder or Certificate Revocation List (CRL) distribution point

Answer

An accessible Online Certificate Status Protocol (OCSP) responder or Certificate Revocation List (CRL) distribution point is required.
In Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), validating a digital certificate requires checking four primary criteria: signature validity, current date within the validity period, trust chain up to a trusted Root CA, and certificate revocation status. When a RADIUS server (such as Cisco ISE) performs EAP-TLS authentication, it verifies whether the client certificate has been revoked prior to expiration. This verification relies on accessing either a Certificate Revocation List (CRL) from a CDP or querying an Online Certificate Status Protocol (OCSP) responder. If these endpoints are unreachable, revocation status cannot be verified, causing the handshake to fail.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the EAP-TLS authentication flow and failure symptom.
The client presented a valid certificate from a trusted CA hierarchy, but authentication failed specifically due to an unverified revocation status.
During TLS certificate validation, the verifying party (RADIUS server) checks certificate signature, validity dates, trust chain, and revocation status.
2
Identify the required PKI component for checking certificate revocation status.
Digital certificate revocation status is checked via Certificate Revocation Lists (CRLs) or Online Certificate Status Protocol (OCSP) queries.
If the RADIUS server cannot reach the CRL Distribution Point (CDP) or OCSP responder, and strict revocation checking is enabled, certificate validation fails.

Key Concept

Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) Certificate Validation & Revocation Checking (CRL/OCSP)
Question 39Question

A network technician configures a standard IPv4 access control list on a Cisco router using the command `access-list 5 permit host 172.16.10.15` and applies it inbound on an interface. What happens when host 172.16.10.20 sends traffic into that interface?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: The traffic is dropped because of the implicit deny clause at the end of the access control list.

Answer

The traffic is dropped because of the implicit deny clause at the end of the access control list.
Every Cisco IPv4 access control list automatically ends with an implicit deny statement (such as `deny any`). When host 172.16.10.20 sends packets into the interface, the router evaluates the packet against the explicit rule permitting host 172.16.10.15. Because the source address does not match, processing reaches the end of the list where the implicit deny drops the packet.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Inspect the explicit configuration line in the access control list.
The ACL contains only `access-list 5 permit host 172.16.10.15`.
Cisco IOS evaluates ACL entries sequentially against incoming packets.
2
Compare incoming packet source IP address 172.16.10.20 to the configured rule.
The IP address 172.16.10.20 does not match 172.16.10.15.
The 'host' keyword implies a wildcard mask of 0.0.0.0, matching only one exact address.
3
Evaluate the default behavior when no explicit rules match.
The packet falls through to the hidden implicit deny entry at the end of the ACL and is dropped.
Every IPv4 ACL in Cisco IOS automatically ends with an implicit `deny ip any` clause.

Key Concept

ACL Implicit Deny Clause
Question 40Question

A network security engineer is reviewing the defense-in-depth posture for a sensitive financial processing facility. The engineer needs to implement controls that belong specifically to the physical security domain or administrative security program elements, distinguishing them from technical and logical network mechanisms. Which two options represent physical access controls or security program elements? (Select two.)

Select all that apply

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Installing a biometric mantrap vestibule at the data center entrance to prevent unauthorized entry and tailgating; Establishing mandatory user security awareness training focused on identifying social engineering and phishing tactics

Answer

Installing biometric mantrap vestibules and establishing user security awareness training programs are the two measures that fall under physical access controls and security program elements.
Physical security controls encompass physical barriers, biometric readers, badge access systems, mantrap vestibules, and surveillance designed to prevent unauthorized physical access to computing hardware. Security program elements include human-centric initiatives such as user security awareness training, security policies, and incident handling protocols. The mantrap vestibule directly secures physical entry, while security awareness training addresses user behavior and social engineering resistance.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Classify the security requirements
Identify physical security mechanisms (physical barriers/locks/biometrics) and security program elements (policies/awareness/training).
Security controls are categorized into administrative/programmatic, physical, and technical/logical domains.
2
Evaluate the physical control options
Biometric mantrap vestibules physically restrict access to facilities and prevent tailgating, qualifying directly as physical access controls.
Physical controls govern physical entry into facility perimeters, server rooms, and network closets.
3
Evaluate the security program element options
Mandatory security awareness training educates personnel on human threat vectors, qualifying directly as a security program element.
Security program elements include administrative policies, security training, incident response plans, and compliance frameworks.
4
Differentiate technical controls from physical/programmatic controls
TACACS+ AAA authentication, switch port security, and router ACLs are technical (logical) security mechanisms operating on network hardware and protocols.
Technical controls use software and hardware logic to enforce security policies on data traffic and device administration.

Key Concept

Classification of Security Control Types (Physical vs. Programmatic/Administrative vs. Technical/Logical)
Estimated Time:1m 30s
PreviousPage 2 / 15Next
Security Fundamentals Practice Questions — Cisco CCNA — Page 2 | Examkin