Cisco 350-701 Implementing and Operating Cisco Security Core Technologies Exam Dumps and Practice Test Questions Set 1 Q 1-15
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Question 1:
What is the primary purpose of Cisco Umbrella in a security architecture?
A) Endpoint protection
B) DNS-layer security and cloud-delivered firewall
C) Network access control
D) Data loss prevention
Answer: B
Explanation:
Cisco Umbrella is a cloud-based security platform that provides the first line of defense against threats on the Internet by delivering security at the DNS and IP layers. Understanding Umbrella’s role in comprehensive security architecture is essential for implementing defense-in-depth strategies. The primary purpose of Cisco Umbrella is to provide DNS-layer security combined with cloud-delivered firewall capabilities, protecting users from accessing malicious destinations before connections are ever established.
Umbrella operates by acting as a recursive DNS resolver that inspects all DNS queries from protected networks and devices. When a user attempts to access a domain, the DNS request is routed to Umbrella’s cloud infrastructure where it is evaluated against threat intelligence databases containing billions of known malicious domains, IP addresses, and URLs. If the destination is identified as malicious or violates organizational policies, Umbrella blocks the request before the connection is established, preventing malware downloads, phishing attempts, command-and-control communications, and access to inappropriate content. This DNS-layer enforcement provides protection regardless of the user’s location, working for office networks, remote workers, and roaming devices without requiring complex VPN connections or on-premises security appliances.
Beyond DNS-layer security, Umbrella provides cloud-delivered firewall capabilities through its Secure Internet Gateway component. When implemented with Umbrella’s proxy functionality, all web traffic can be routed through Umbrella’s cloud for deeper inspection including full URL visibility, file inspection with antivirus scanning, data loss prevention, and application control. This approach protects users accessing the Internet directly without backhauling traffic to corporate data centers, addressing the security challenges of cloud adoption and distributed workforces. Umbrella integrates with threat intelligence from Cisco Talos, one of the largest commercial threat intelligence teams, ensuring protection against emerging threats.
The deployment flexibility of Umbrella makes it suitable for diverse environments. Organizations can deploy Umbrella through various methods including configuring network devices to forward DNS requests to Umbrella resolvers, installing lightweight agents on endpoints for user-based policies and roaming protection, or integrating with existing security infrastructure like Cisco Secure Endpoint or firewalls. Umbrella provides comprehensive reporting and visibility into Internet activity, identifying shadow IT applications, detecting compromised systems communicating with malicious destinations, and providing insights into user behavior. The cloud-delivered architecture eliminates infrastructure maintenance, automatically updates with latest threat intelligence, and scales effortlessly to accommodate organizational growth.
A) Endpoint protection is provided by solutions like Cisco Secure Endpoint, not Umbrella’s primary purpose. B) DNS-layer security and cloud-delivered firewall is the correct answer describing Umbrella’s core capabilities. C) Network access control is provided by solutions like Cisco ISE, not Umbrella. D) Data loss prevention can be a component of Umbrella’s features but is not its primary purpose.
Question 2:
Which Cisco technology provides network segmentation by grouping users with similar access requirements regardless of their physical location?
A) VLANs
B) TrustSec with Security Group Tags (SGTs)
C) VRF instances
D) Access Control Lists
Answer: B
Explanation:
Network segmentation is a critical security practice that limits lateral movement during breaches, contains incidents, implements least-privilege access, and simplifies policy management. Traditional segmentation approaches using VLANs and IP-based access control lists face limitations in dynamic modern networks where users move between locations, work remotely, and access resources across complex infrastructures. Cisco TrustSec with Security Group Tags provides software-defined segmentation that groups users and resources based on identity and role rather than network location, enabling consistent policy enforcement regardless of where users connect or resources reside.
TrustSec operates by assigning Security Group Tags to network traffic based on user identity, device type, location, or other contextual factors. These SGTs are 16-bit values that travel with packets as they traverse the network, acting as metadata that identifies the security classification of the source. When integrated with Cisco Identity Services Engine, SGTs are dynamically assigned during authentication based on user identity, device posture, location, and other attributes determined through policy evaluation. For example, employees in the finance department might receive an SGT value of 5, while contractors receive an SGT value of 10, regardless of which office location they work from or which network segment they connect to. This dynamic assignment eliminates the need to reconfigure network infrastructure when users move or change roles.
Security policies in TrustSec are defined using Security Group Access Control Lists which specify what communications are permitted between SGTs rather than between IP addresses or subnets. An SGACL policy might state that SGT 5 (finance employees) can access SGT 20 (financial servers) on specific ports, while SGT 10 (contractors) cannot access SGT 20 at all. These policies are defined centrally in ISE and distributed to enforcement points throughout the network including switches, routers, firewalls, and wireless controllers. When traffic arrives at an enforcement point, the device examines the source SGT and destination SGT, consults the SGACL policy matrix, and permits or denies the traffic accordingly. This approach dramatically simplifies policy management because policies are defined based on business roles rather than constantly changing IP addresses.
TrustSec provides several advantages over traditional segmentation. Policies follow users regardless of location, supporting mobile workforces and bring-your-own-device environments. Segmentation is consistent across wired, wireless, and VPN connections because it operates at the identity layer rather than relying on physical infrastructure. Policy changes are implemented centrally and automatically distributed rather than requiring configuration changes on numerous network devices. Troubleshooting is simplified because SGT assignments and policy decisions are logged with clear business context. Organizations implementing Zero Trust architectures rely heavily on TrustSec because it enables micro-segmentation based on identity, provides continuous verification of access rights, and limits lateral movement by enforcing least-privilege access between network segments.
A) VLANs provide network segmentation but are based on physical connections and network topology, not user identity. B) TrustSec with Security Group Tags is the correct answer as it provides identity-based segmentation independent of physical location. C) VRF instances provide routing separation but do not group users based on access requirements. D) Access Control Lists provide filtering but are based on IP addresses rather than user identity and role.
Question 3:
An administrator needs to configure Cisco Secure Endpoint (formerly AMP for Endpoints) to prevent malware execution. Which feature provides this capability?
A) Retrospective detection
B) Outbreak Control with blocking mode
C) Device trajectory
D) File reputation analysis only
Answer: B
Explanation:
Cisco Secure Endpoint provides comprehensive endpoint protection combining prevention, detection, response, and threat intelligence capabilities. Understanding the different features and their specific purposes enables administrators to configure appropriate protection for organizational requirements. Outbreak Control with blocking mode is the feature that provides proactive prevention of malware execution by monitoring file activities and blocking files that match malicious indicators before they can execute on endpoints.
Outbreak Control operates by continuously monitoring file execution attempts on protected endpoints and comparing those files against Cisco’s cloud-based threat intelligence. When a file is about to execute, the Secure Endpoint connector calculates the file’s hash and queries the cloud to determine if the file is known to be malicious. If the file matches known malware signatures or exhibits characteristics of malicious software, Outbreak Control can take actions based on the configured enforcement mode. In monitoring mode, suspicious files are allowed to execute but the activity is logged for analysis and alerts are generated. In blocking mode, which provides true prevention capability, files identified as malicious are blocked from executing and users receive notifications that the file has been quarantined. This prevention occurs before any malicious code runs, protecting endpoints from compromise.
Outbreak Control also includes custom detection capabilities where administrators can create application blocking rules based on specific criteria beyond just malware signatures. Organizations can block execution of specific applications by filename, hash, or other characteristics to enforce acceptable use policies or prevent shadow IT. For example, administrators might create rules blocking cryptocurrency mining applications, unauthorized remote access tools, or deprecated software versions with known vulnerabilities. These custom rules are defined in the Secure Endpoint console and automatically distributed to all managed endpoints, providing centralized control over application execution across the organization.
The integration between Outbreak Control and Cisco’s threat intelligence infrastructure ensures protection remains current against emerging threats. Cisco Talos continuously analyzes billions of files and threat indicators, updating the cloud intelligence databases in real-time. When new malware campaigns are identified, protection is automatically extended to all Secure Endpoint deployments without requiring signature updates or agent patches. This cloud-delivered model provides faster protection against zero-day threats compared to traditional antivirus solutions. Outbreak Control also supports air-gapped environments through TETRA appliances that cache threat intelligence locally for networks without direct Internet connectivity. Organizations should configure Outbreak Control in blocking mode for production endpoints to achieve true prevention, while potentially using monitoring mode initially during deployment to establish baselines and tune policies.
A) Retrospective detection provides continuous analysis and alerts about file behavior changes but does not prevent initial execution. B) Outbreak Control with blocking mode is the correct answer as it prevents malware execution by blocking malicious files before they run. C) Device trajectory provides forensic timeline of endpoint activities but does not prevent execution. D) File reputation analysis only identifies file risk but blocking mode enforcement is required for prevention.
Question 4:
Which protocol does Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) primarily use for authenticating network access requests?
A) TACACS+
B) RADIUS
C) LDAP
D) SAML
Answer: B
Explanation:
Cisco Identity Services Engine is a comprehensive network access control and policy enforcement platform that provides authentication, authorization, and accounting for network access, device administration, and guest services. Understanding the protocols ISE uses for different functions is essential for proper deployment and integration with network infrastructure. ISE primarily uses RADIUS protocol for authenticating network access requests from users and devices attempting to connect to the network through wired, wireless, or VPN connections.
RADIUS operates as a client-server protocol where network access devices act as RADIUS clients sending authentication requests to ISE which functions as the RADIUS server. When a user or device attempts to connect to the network, the network access device such as a switch, wireless controller, or VPN gateway intercepts the connection attempt and forwards the credentials to ISE using RADIUS. The RADIUS request includes the username or device identity, authentication credentials like passwords or certificates, and contextual information about the connection attempt including source port, VLAN, device type, and location. ISE evaluates this information against configured authentication policies and identity sources, determining whether to accept or reject the authentication attempt and what authorization policies should apply.
RADIUS provides not just authentication but also authorization and accounting capabilities that ISE leverages for comprehensive network access control. During authorization, ISE returns RADIUS attributes to the network access device specifying what access the authenticated user or device should receive. These attributes might include VLAN assignments, downloadable ACLs, Security Group Tags for TrustSec, URL redirect for guest portals, or QoS parameters. The network access device applies these authorization attributes configuring the network connection according to ISE’s policy decision. RADIUS accounting enables ISE to track network sessions including when sessions start and end, how much data is transferred, and session duration. This accounting data supports compliance reporting, user behavior analytics, and troubleshooting.
ISE implements RADIUS with several enhancements beyond basic protocol specifications. Change of Authorization enables ISE to dynamically modify or terminate active sessions without requiring reauthentication, supporting use cases like automatic quarantine of compromised devices or access revocation when users leave the organization. RADIUS profiling extracts device characteristics from RADIUS attributes enabling automatic device classification and policy application. Integration with Active Directory, LDAP directories, and certificate authorities through RADIUS enables ISE to leverage existing identity sources without requiring credential synchronization. Organizations should understand that while ISE uses RADIUS for network access control, it uses TACACS+ for device administration providing centralized management of administrative access to network infrastructure devices. Both protocols serve distinct purposes with RADIUS focused on user and endpoint access while TACACS+ handles administrative privilege management.
A) TACACS+ is used by ISE for device administration access to network devices, not for network access authentication. B) RADIUS is the correct answer as ISE primarily uses this protocol for authenticating network access requests. C) LDAP is used by ISE to query identity stores but is not the protocol for network access authentication. D) SAML is used for web-based single sign-on integration, not for network access authentication.
Question 5:
What is the purpose of Cisco Secure Malware Analytics (formerly Threat Grid) in a security architecture?
A) Real-time intrusion prevention
B) Automated malware analysis and sandboxing
C) Email security filtering
D) Web application firewall
Answer: B
Explanation:
Modern malware often employs sophisticated evasion techniques including polymorphism, encryption, and anti-analysis capabilities that enable it to bypass traditional signature-based detection. Organizations need capabilities to deeply analyze suspicious files in isolated environments to understand their behavior and determine if they are malicious. Cisco Secure Malware Analytics, formerly known as Threat Grid, is a malware analysis and sandboxing platform that automatically executes suspicious files in controlled virtual environments, observes their behavior, and generates detailed analysis reports with threat intelligence.
Secure Malware Analytics operates by accepting file submissions from various sources including Secure Endpoint, Secure Email, Secure Web Appliance, firewalls, or manual analyst uploads. When a file is submitted, the platform creates isolated virtual machine environments with various operating system configurations and executes the file while comprehensively monitoring its behavior. The analysis observes what files are created, modified, or deleted, which registry keys are accessed, what network connections are attempted, which processes are spawned, what API calls are made, and numerous other behavioral indicators. This dynamic analysis reveals the true nature of files that might appear benign through static analysis alone. For example, a document file might appear legitimate but when executed in the sandbox reveals that it downloads and installs remote access trojans.
The analysis results include detailed reports providing behavioral indicators, network indicators of compromise like contacted domains and IP addresses, file indicators including dropped files and their hashes, and a threat score indicating the assessed maliciousness level. These reports include timeline visualizations showing the sequence of malicious actions, static analysis results identifying file characteristics, and correlation with known malware families and campaigns. The threat intelligence generated by Secure Malware Analytics feeds back into other Cisco security products enabling automated protection. When malware is analyzed and identified, the indicators are automatically distributed to Secure Endpoint for blocking, Umbrella for DNS-layer protection, firewalls for network blocking, and other integrated security tools.
Secure Malware Analytics provides both cloud-based and on-premises deployment options. Cloud analysis leverages Cisco’s infrastructure for quick results without requiring local resources but requires files to be uploaded to the cloud. On-premises appliances support organizations with data sensitivity concerns or compliance requirements preventing cloud file submission. The platform supports analysis of numerous file types including executables, documents, PDFs, archives, mobile applications, and scripts. Advanced capabilities include network simulation enabling malware to communicate with command-and-control infrastructure in a controlled environment, behavioral indicators extraction for writing custom detection rules, and API integration enabling automated submission and result retrieval. Organizations should integrate Secure Malware Analytics into security workflows for analyzing files from email attachments, web downloads, and endpoint detections to gain deep understanding of threats targeting their environment.
A) Real-time intrusion prevention is provided by firewalls and IPS systems, not malware sandboxing. B) Automated malware analysis and sandboxing is the correct answer describing Secure Malware Analytics’ core purpose. C) Email security filtering is provided by Cisco Secure Email, not Secure Malware Analytics. D) Web application firewall protects web applications from attacks, not the purpose of malware sandboxing.
Question 6:
Which Cisco security solution provides visibility and control over encrypted traffic without decrypting it?
A) Cisco Firepower with deep packet inspection
B) Cisco Encrypted Traffic Analytics (ETA)
C) Cisco Umbrella DNS filtering
D) Cisco Stealthwatch with NetFlow
Answer: B
Explanation:
The widespread adoption of encryption for protecting data privacy has created significant challenges for security operations because traditional security tools require decrypting traffic to inspect content for threats. However, decryption raises privacy concerns, increases infrastructure costs, breaks some applications, and may violate regulations in certain jurisdictions. Organizations need capabilities to identify threats in encrypted traffic without requiring decryption. Cisco Encrypted Traffic Analytics is a security capability that uses machine learning and behavioral analysis to detect malware and threats in encrypted traffic flows without decrypting the content.
Encrypted Traffic Analytics operates by collecting and analyzing network flow metadata and packet characteristics that remain visible even when traffic is encrypted. ETA examines features including packet lengths and their distributions, inter-arrival times between packets indicating traffic patterns, byte distributions revealing content characteristics, TLS handshake parameters like cipher suites and certificate details, and sequence of packet lengths creating behavioral fingerprints. Machine learning models trained on known malicious and benign traffic patterns analyze these features to identify anomalies and indicators of compromise. For example, malware command-and-control communications often exhibit distinct patterns in packet timing and sizes compared to legitimate encrypted traffic, even though the actual content is encrypted.
The analysis provided by ETA can identify various threats operating within encrypted channels including malware command-and-control communications, data exfiltration attempts, ransomware activity, cryptocurrency mining, and suspicious TLS implementations indicating malware. When threats are detected, ETA generates alerts with context about the detected behavior, affected hosts, and recommended responses. The technology integrates with Cisco’s broader security architecture enabling automated responses like quarantining affected endpoints through Secure Endpoint, blocking malicious domains through Umbrella, or updating firewall policies to contain threats. This integration ensures that threats detected through ETA analysis trigger coordinated responses across the security infrastructure.
ETA is implemented through various Cisco platforms including integration with Catalyst switches and routers that export telemetry, Stealthwatch for network visibility and analytics, Secure Network Analytics for threat detection, and Firepower threat defense devices. The machine learning models continuously improve as they process more network traffic and receive feedback about threat detection accuracy. Organizations benefit from ETA by maintaining security visibility into encrypted traffic which now represents over 90 percent of Internet traffic, avoiding the costs and complications of SSL decryption infrastructure, respecting user privacy by never accessing encrypted content, and detecting sophisticated threats that rely on encryption to evade traditional security controls. ETA should be considered essential for modern security architectures where encryption is ubiquitous but security visibility remains critical.
A) Cisco Firepower with deep packet inspection requires decryption to inspect content, not visibility without decryption. B) Cisco Encrypted Traffic Analytics (ETA) is the correct answer as it detects threats in encrypted traffic without decryption. C) Cisco Umbrella DNS filtering operates at DNS layer before encryption, not analyzing encrypted traffic flows. D) Cisco Stealthwatch with NetFlow provides network visibility but ETA specifically uses ML to detect threats in encrypted traffic.
Question 7:
What is the primary function of Cisco Secure Network Analytics (formerly Stealthwatch) in a security operations center?
A) Endpoint antivirus protection
B) Network behavior analysis and threat detection
C) Email gateway security
D) Web content filtering
Answer: B
Explanation:
Security operations centers require comprehensive visibility into network activity to detect threats, investigate incidents, and respond to security events. While perimeter security tools protect against external threats, many attacks originate from inside the network through compromised accounts, insider threats, or lateral movement after initial compromise. Cisco Secure Network Analytics, formerly known as Stealthwatch, provides network behavior analysis and threat detection by collecting and analyzing network telemetry to identify anomalies, policy violations, and indicators of compromise that other security tools might miss.
Secure Network Analytics operates by collecting flow data from across the network infrastructure including switches, routers, firewalls, and endpoints. Flow data provides records of network communications including source and destination IP addresses, ports, protocols, bytes transferred, and timing information without requiring full packet capture. By analyzing these flows using behavioral modeling and machine learning, Secure Network Analytics establishes baselines of normal network behavior for users, devices, and applications. The system then continuously monitors for deviations from these baselines that might indicate security threats including unusual data transfers suggesting exfiltration, unexpected communication patterns indicating command-and-control activity, lateral movement attempts from compromised endpoints, or policy violations like unauthorized application usage.
The platform provides multiple detection capabilities addressing diverse threat scenarios. Anomaly detection identifies statistical deviations from established baselines such as a server suddenly transferring large volumes of data to external destinations or a workstation initiating connections to numerous internal hosts. Threat intelligence integration correlates observed network activity with known malicious IP addresses, domains, and indicators from Cisco Talos and third-party threat feeds. Custom security rules enable analysts to create detection logic for organization-specific threats or compliance requirements. Encrypted Traffic Analytics integration detects threats in encrypted traffic without decryption. The platform’s investigative capabilities enable analysts to conduct historical queries examining network activity over extended time periods, reconstructing attack timelines, and identifying the scope of incidents.
Secure Network Analytics integrates with broader security architecture enabling automated response workflows. Integration with Cisco Identity Services Engine enables automatic quarantine of compromised endpoints by changing their network access. Pxgrid integration shares context with other security tools coordinating detection and response. SIEM integration forwards alerts for correlation with events from other security tools. API integration enables custom automation workflows. The platform scales from small deployments to large enterprise and service provider networks through distributed architecture with collectors processing flow data and management consoles providing analysis and visualization. Organizations should deploy Secure Network Analytics as part of defense-in-depth strategy providing visibility into network traffic that complements endpoint, email, and perimeter security tools.
A) Endpoint antivirus protection is provided by solutions like Secure Endpoint, not network behavior analysis. B) Network behavior analysis and threat detection is the correct answer describing Secure Network Analytics’ primary function. C) Email gateway security is provided by Cisco Secure Email, not network analytics. D) Web content filtering is provided by Umbrella or Web Security Appliance, not network behavior analysis.
Question 8:
Which feature in Cisco Firepower Threat Defense provides protection against known vulnerabilities in applications and operating systems?
A) Application Control
B) Intrusion Prevention System (IPS)
C) URL filtering
D) Malware defense
Answer: B
Explanation:
Network-based attacks frequently exploit vulnerabilities in applications, operating systems, and network services to compromise systems, escalate privileges, or install malware. Organizations must protect against these exploitation attempts even when vulnerable systems cannot be immediately patched due to maintenance windows, application dependencies, or legacy system constraints. Cisco Firepower Threat Defense Intrusion Prevention System is the security feature specifically designed to detect and prevent exploitation attempts by matching network traffic against signatures of known attack patterns and vulnerabilities.
Firepower IPS operates by performing deep packet inspection on traffic passing through the device, examining packet contents against an extensive database of intrusion signatures. These signatures identify specific patterns associated with vulnerability exploitation attempts, malware communications, policy violations, and suspicious activities. When traffic matches an IPS signature, Firepower can take various actions including dropping the malicious packets to prevent exploitation, generating alerts for security analysis, logging detailed information about the attempt, or blocking future traffic from the attacking source. The signature database is continuously updated by Cisco Talos as new vulnerabilities are discovered and new attack techniques emerge, ensuring protection remains current against evolving threats.
Firepower IPS includes sophisticated capabilities beyond simple signature matching. The intrusion rules are organized by classification including exploit attempts targeting specific vulnerabilities, malware communication patterns, policy violations, and reconnaissance activities. Rules can be tuned based on organizational priorities with options to drop packets, alert only, or disable rules that generate false positives. Intrusion policies define sets of rules that should be active with preconfigured policies for connectivity over security, balanced security and connectivity, or security over connectivity depending on organizational risk tolerance. Preprocessors normalize traffic and detect protocol anomalies before signature matching occurs, identifying attacks that attempt to evade detection through obfuscation techniques.
The integration between Firepower IPS and vulnerability assessment enables adaptive security where IPS protection is tailored to actual vulnerabilities present in the network. When integrated with vulnerability scanners or Cisco Secure Network Analytics, Firepower IPS can prioritize detection and prevention of attacks targeting known vulnerabilities in the environment while reducing false positives from attacks targeting non-existent vulnerabilities. The IPS also integrates with threat intelligence from Cisco Talos and third-party feeds, correlating detected intrusion attempts with global threat campaigns and known malicious actors. Detailed logging and reporting provide visibility into attempted attacks, successful blocks, and trends in attack patterns enabling security teams to understand their threat landscape.
A) Application Control identifies and controls application usage but does not specifically protect against vulnerability exploitation. B) Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) is the correct answer as it detects and prevents exploitation of known vulnerabilities. C) URL filtering controls web access based on categories and reputation but does not protect against vulnerability exploitation. D) Malware defense detects and blocks malware files but IPS specifically addresses vulnerability exploitation attempts.
Question 9:
An administrator needs to configure posture assessment for endpoints connecting to the network. Which Cisco solution provides this capability?
A) Cisco Secure Endpoint
B) Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE)
C) Cisco Umbrella
D) Cisco Duo
Answer: B
Explanation:
Network access control must verify not only user identity but also endpoint security posture before granting network access. Devices with outdated operating systems, missing security patches, disabled antivirus, or other security deficiencies pose risks to the network even when operated by authorized users. Organizations need capabilities to assess endpoint security posture during network authentication and enforce policies that restrict or remediate non-compliant devices. Cisco Identity Services Engine provides comprehensive posture assessment capabilities that evaluate endpoint security status and enforce compliance before granting network access.
ISE posture assessment operates through a posture evaluation process integrated with network authentication. When a device attempts network access, ISE can require a posture check before granting full access. For managed devices, ISE deploys a posture agent called AnyConnect with ISE Posture Module that runs on the endpoint and performs detailed security assessments. For unmanaged or guest devices, ISE can perform agent-less posture using web-based checks or network scanning. The posture module evaluates the endpoint against configurable conditions checking for required antivirus presence and update status, operating system patch levels, disk encryption status, personal firewall state, presence of prohibited applications, registry settings on Windows, and other security parameters. The results are reported back to ISE which compares them against posture policies determining whether the device is compliant, non-compliant, or unknown.
Based on posture assessment results, ISE enforces appropriate authorization policies. Compliant devices receive full network access based on user roles and security group assignments. Non-compliant devices can be quarantined to remediation networks with limited access only to resources necessary for bringing devices into compliance such as patch servers, antivirus update servers, and self-service remediation portals. ISE can provide user notifications explaining what deficiencies were found and how to remediate them. Automated remediation can trigger corrections like launching Windows Update, enabling firewall, or starting antivirus if the posture module has sufficient privileges. Unknown devices that cannot be fully assessed might receive restricted guest access or be blocked entirely depending on organizational policies.
ISE posture assessment integrates with endpoint security products enabling centralized visibility and policy enforcement. Integration with Cisco Secure Endpoint verifies that managed antivirus is installed and current. Integration with third-party antivirus, endpoint detection solutions, and mobile device management systems through APIs enables posture assessment of diverse endpoints. Temporal policies can grant limited access for a specific duration allowing users to update their systems while maintaining some network connectivity. Posture assessment works across network access methods including wired, wireless, and VPN connections providing consistent security regardless of how users connect. Organizations should implement posture assessment as part of comprehensive network access control ensuring that only secure compliant devices access sensitive resources regardless of user identity.
A) Cisco Secure Endpoint provides endpoint protection but posture assessment is performed by ISE during network access control. B) Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) is the correct answer as it provides comprehensive posture assessment capabilities. C) Cisco Umbrella provides DNS-layer security but not endpoint posture assessment during network access. D) Cisco Duo provides multi-factor authentication but not comprehensive endpoint posture assessment.
Question 10:
What is the purpose of Cisco pxGrid in a security architecture?
A) VPN connectivity
B) Context sharing and integration between security products
C) Network routing protocol
D) Wireless controller management
Answer: B
Explanation:
Modern security architectures involve multiple specialized security products each providing visibility into different aspects of the environment. Effective threat detection and response requires these products to share context and coordinate actions rather than operating as isolated silos. Organizations need integration frameworks that enable security products to exchange information in real-time creating a connected security ecosystem. Cisco pxGrid (Platform Exchange Grid) is an open, scalable, standards-based platform that enables multivendor, cross-platform network system collaboration through secure context sharing between security products.
pxGrid operates as a publish-subscribe architecture where security products connect to pxGrid as publishers, subscribers, or both. Publishers share context data with the grid including endpoint identity and location information from ISE, threat detections from Secure Endpoint, vulnerability information from security scanners, and user activity from SIEM systems. Subscribers consume this shared context to enhance their own capabilities and make more informed security decisions. The bidirectional nature enables both sharing of context and consumption of information from other products. For example, when Secure Endpoint detects malware on an endpoint, it publishes this threat indicator to pxGrid. ISE subscribes to these threat indicators and can automatically quarantine the compromised endpoint by changing its network authorization. Firewall systems subscribing to pxGrid receive the threat information and can block traffic from the compromised host.
The standards-based approach of pxGrid enables multivendor integration supporting Cisco and third-party security products. pxGrid uses WebSockets for real-time bidirectional communication, STOMP protocol for messaging, and REST APIs for request-response interactions. Authentication uses TLS certificates ensuring secure communications between pxGrid clients. The platform scales to support large deployments with thousands of connected clients and high message volumes. Context types shared through pxGrid include session directory with active network sessions and user-device mappings, endpoint profile information with device types and attributes, security group tags for TrustSec integration, security events including threats and policy violations, vulnerability assessment results, and compliance status information.
Integration scenarios enabled by pxGrid demonstrate its value in security architectures. Automated threat containment workflows where endpoint threats detected by any security tool trigger automatic quarantine through ISE and blocking through firewalls. Security information enrichment where SIEM systems receive detailed endpoint and user context from ISE enhancing alert correlation and investigation. Adaptive access control where ISE consumes threat intelligence from multiple sources and adjusts authorization policies dynamically. Guest lifecycle management where guest registration systems integrate with ISE for automatic credential provisioning and portal customization. The extensible architecture enables organizations to build custom integrations through pxGrid APIs connecting proprietary security tools or automating unique workflows. Organizations should leverage pxGrid to break down silos between security products creating integrated defense ecosystems where threats detected anywhere trigger coordinated responses everywhere.
A) VPN connectivity is provided by VPN technologies, not the purpose of pxGrid context sharing platform. B) Context sharing and integration between security products is the correct answer describing pxGrid’s primary purpose. C) Network routing protocol handles packet forwarding, not security context sharing. D) Wireless controller management handles access point operations, not security product integration.
Question 11:
Which Cisco technology provides multi-factor authentication for securing user access to applications and resources?
A) Cisco ISE
B) Cisco Duo
C) Cisco AnyConnect
D) Cisco Umbrella
Answer: B
Explanation:
Password-based authentication alone is insufficient for protecting access to critical applications and resources because passwords can be stolen through phishing, compromised through breaches, guessed through brute force, or shared inappropriately. Organizations need additional authentication factors to verify user identity beyond just passwords. Multi-factor authentication requires users to provide multiple independent factors from different categories including something they know like passwords, something they have like mobile devices or security tokens, or something they are like biometric characteristics. Cisco Duo is a cloud-based access security platform that provides multi-factor authentication protecting user access to applications, endpoints, and networks.
Duo operates by acting as an authentication proxy that integrates with existing applications and identity providers adding MFA capabilities without requiring application modifications. When a user attempts to authenticate to a protected application, the primary authentication occurs using existing mechanisms like Active Directory passwords. After successful primary authentication, Duo intercepts the authentication flow and requires a second factor before granting access. Users can satisfy the second factor through multiple methods including Duo Push notifications sent to registered mobile devices where users approve or deny authentication requests, SMS passcodes sent as text messages, phone call authentication where users press a key to approve, time-based one-time passwords generated by the Duo Mobile app, hardware tokens generating passcodes, or biometric verification on supported mobile devices.
Duo provides security beyond simple MFA through contextual access policies and risk-based authentication. Administrators can configure policies requiring different authentication methods based on context including user location with geolocation-based policies, device trust status with policies requiring registered trusted devices, network location allowing different requirements for corporate versus external networks, and application sensitivity requiring stronger authentication for accessing critical resources. Adaptive authentication adjusts MFA requirements based on risk assessment automatically prompting for MFA when detecting suspicious indicators like impossible travel, new device, or anomalous access patterns while providing friction-free access for routine low-risk scenarios. Device health checks verify endpoint security before granting access ensuring devices meet minimum security requirements.
Duo integrates with extensive ecosystems of applications, identity providers, and operating systems. Pre-built integrations support cloud applications like Office 365 and Salesforce, VPN solutions, operating system login for Windows and Mac, network access through ISE integration, and custom applications through APIs and SDKs. The deployment models support cloud-hosted Duo accessible from anywhere for protecting remote access and SaaS applications, or on-premises Duo Authentication Proxy for air-gapped environments and applications requiring local authentication. Admin controls provide granular policy management, detailed authentication logging, self-service user enrollment, and bypass codes for recovery scenarios. Organizations should implement Duo across all critical access points including remote access VPN, cloud applications, administrative interfaces, and privileged access to protect against credential-based attacks that represent a leading cause of breaches.
A) Cisco ISE provides network access control and can integrate with MFA but Duo is the dedicated MFA solution. B) Cisco Duo is the correct answer as it provides comprehensive multi-factor authentication capabilities. C) Cisco AnyConnect is VPN and endpoint security client software, not a multi-factor authentication solution. D) Cisco Umbrella provides DNS-layer security, not multi-factor authentication.
Question 12:
What is the primary benefit of implementing Network Access Control (NAC)?
A) Increasing network bandwidth
B) Ensuring only authorized and compliant devices can access the network
C) Encrypting all network traffic
D) Providing wireless connectivity
Answer: B
Explanation:
Traditional network security focused primarily on perimeter protection, implementing firewalls and intrusion detection at network boundaries while trusting devices inside the perimeter. This approach proves inadequate in modern environments where mobile devices, bring-your-own-device policies, Internet of Things devices, and sophisticated attacks require verifying every device attempting network access regardless of connection point. Organizations need mechanisms to authenticate users and devices, assess security posture, enforce policies based on identity and compliance, and dynamically adjust access as conditions change.
Network Access Control, commonly abbreviated as NAC, provides the primary benefit of ensuring only authorized and compliant devices can access the network by authenticating users and devices, assessing their security posture, enforcing access policies, and continuously monitoring for compliance. NAC solutions operate at network connection points including wired switches, wireless controllers, and VPN gateways, intercepting connection attempts and performing authentication and authorization before granting access. This control prevents unauthorized devices from accessing network resources and ensures authorized devices meet security requirements before connection.
NAC implementations provide multiple security functions working together. Authentication verifies the identity of users attempting to access the network using credentials, certificates, or multi-factor authentication methods, integrating with enterprise directories like Active Directory or LDAP. Device profiling identifies what type of device is connecting based on characteristics like operating system, manufacturer, and device capabilities even for devices that cannot provide credentials. Posture assessment evaluates security compliance checking for required antivirus software, current security patches, disk encryption, firewall status, and prohibited applications. Authorization determines what network access each user and device should receive based on identity, device type, compliance status, location, and time of day.
Access enforcement implements authorization decisions using various network mechanisms. VLAN assignment places devices in appropriate network segments with access to authorized resources. Access Control Lists dynamically download to switches limiting what the device can access. Security Group Tags in TrustSec environments enable identity-based segmentation. Quarantine networks isolate non-compliant devices providing only access to remediation resources. Guest networks provide restricted access for visitors. These enforcement methods adapt access based on context providing least-privilege access.
NAC addresses multiple use cases critical for modern network security. Controlling employee access ensures corporate devices and personal devices in BYOD scenarios meet security requirements before accessing sensitive resources. Managing guest access provides internet connectivity for visitors without compromising internal network security. Securing IoT devices identifies and segments devices like cameras, printers, and building systems that cannot authenticate like traditional endpoints. Containing compromised devices automatically quarantines devices exhibiting indicators of compromise preventing lateral movement. Supporting compliance demonstrates required access controls for regulations like HIPAA or PCI DSS through detailed audit trails of access decisions.
Cisco Identity Services Engine, abbreviated ISE, is Cisco’s comprehensive NAC solution providing all these capabilities in an integrated platform. ISE performs RADIUS-based authentication for network access, profiles devices using multiple data sources, assesses posture through agent-based or agentless methods, defines policies centrally, and integrates with network infrastructure for enforcement. ISE also provides guest management, BYOD onboarding, device administration authentication, and threat-centric NAC that integrates with other security tools.
A is incorrect because increasing network bandwidth is a network capacity function addressed through upgrading network infrastructure like switches, routers, and links, not through implementing NAC which focuses on access control and security rather than performance or capacity.
C is incorrect because encrypting all network traffic requires technologies like IPsec, TLS, or MACsec which provide cryptographic protection for data in transit, not NAC which focuses on authenticating and authorizing network access. NAC and encryption address different security concerns and are complementary technologies.
D is incorrect because providing wireless connectivity is the function of wireless access points, controllers, and associated infrastructure, not NAC. While NAC certainly controls access to wireless networks through integration with wireless controllers, it does not provide the wireless connectivity itself.
Question 13:
Which type of VPN provides secure remote access for individual users?
A) Site-to-Site VPN
B) Remote Access VPN
C) MPLS VPN
D) VLAN
Answer: B
Explanation:
Organizations with remote workers, traveling employees, or personnel working from home require secure methods for these users to access corporate resources without exposing systems directly to the internet. Direct internet connectivity to corporate applications creates security risks including eavesdropping on unencrypted traffic, man-in-the-middle attacks, credential theft, and unauthorized access from compromised personal devices. Virtual Private Network technologies address these concerns by creating encrypted tunnels through untrusted networks, extending secure corporate network access to remote locations and users.
Remote Access VPN is the VPN type that provides secure remote access for individual users, establishing encrypted tunnels from user devices like laptops, smartphones, or tablets to corporate network VPN gateways. Each user runs VPN client software that authenticates to the VPN gateway, negotiates encryption parameters, and creates a secure tunnel through which all traffic to corporate resources passes encrypted. This architecture enables secure access to internal applications, file shares, and resources as if the user were physically present in the office, while protecting data from interception and preventing unauthorized access.
Remote Access VPN implementations provide several essential capabilities. Authentication verifies user identity before granting access using credentials, certificates, or multi-factor authentication, ensuring only authorized users can establish VPN connections. Encryption protects all traffic traversing the VPN tunnel using protocols like IPsec or SSL/TLS, preventing eavesdropping or tampering with data in transit. Authorization determines what resources each user can access after connecting, implementing least-privilege principles based on user roles. Split tunneling optionally allows some traffic to bypass the VPN accessing the internet directly while routing only corporate traffic through the tunnel, improving performance for internet-bound traffic.
Multiple protocols implement Remote Access VPN with different characteristics. IPsec-based VPNs like Cisco AnyConnect IKEv2 provide strong security and efficient performance, natively supporting most operating systems and mobile devices. SSL VPN using protocols like OpenVPN or Cisco AnyConnect SSL provides clientless browser-based access or full tunnel modes, traversing most firewalls and proxies easily since it uses standard HTTPS ports. L2TP/IPsec combines Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol with IPsec encryption, supported natively by many operating systems. These protocols balance security, compatibility, and ease of deployment based on organizational requirements.
Cisco AnyConnect represents Cisco’s comprehensive Remote Access VPN solution providing multiple connection methods, integrated security modules, always-on capabilities, and centralized management. AnyConnect supports IPsec IKEv2 and SSL VPN protocols accommodating different network environments. The client includes modules beyond VPN like Network Visibility Module for endpoint telemetry, Umbrella Roaming Security for DNS-layer protection even off VPN, and ISE Posture Module for compliance checking. Always-On VPN maintains constant connectivity for managed devices ensuring continuous security. Centralized management through Firepower Management Center or Adaptive Security Device Manager simplifies configuration and monitoring.
Best practices for Remote Access VPN deployment ensure security and usability. Multi-factor authentication adds security beyond passwords preventing credential compromise from enabling VPN access. Network Access Control integration assesses device compliance before granting access ensuring remote devices meet security standards. Split tunneling decisions balance security concerns about unmonitored internet access against performance impacts of backhauling all traffic. Logging and monitoring track VPN usage detecting anomalies like unusual connection times or locations. Regular client updates ensure remote workers run current VPN software with latest security fixes.
A is incorrect because Site-to-Site VPN connects entire networks between fixed locations like offices or data centers, not individual users. Site-to-Site VPNs run on network devices like routers or firewalls connecting networks persistently, while Remote Access VPNs connect individual users dynamically.
C is incorrect because MPLS VPN is a service provider technology creating private networks over shared MPLS infrastructure, typically connecting enterprise offices through the provider’s network. MPLS VPN does not provide remote access for individual users but rather connects fixed sites.
D is incorrect because VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) is a Layer 2 network segmentation technology that creates broadcast domains on switches, not a VPN technology. VLANs segment local networks but do not provide encrypted remote access over untrusted networks.
Question 14:
What is the purpose of implementing port security on a Cisco switch?
A) To increase port speed
B) To restrict which devices can connect to switch ports based on MAC addresses
C) To provide power to connected devices
D) To enable routing between VLANs
Answer: B
Explanation:
Physical network security often receives insufficient attention compared to logical security controls, creating vulnerabilities where unauthorized devices can connect to network jacks in offices, conference rooms, or public areas gaining network access. Traditional networks allow any device plugged into a switch port to join the network and potentially access resources, launch attacks, or capture traffic. Organizations need mechanisms to control which devices can connect to physical network ports, preventing unauthorized access even when attackers gain physical access to facilities and network jacks.
Port security on Cisco switches serves the purpose of restricting which devices can connect to switch ports based on MAC addresses, limiting access to known authorized devices and preventing unauthorized devices from connecting even when plugged into physical network jacks. Port security operates at Layer 2 examining the source MAC addresses of frames received on configured ports, comparing them against allowed MAC addresses, and taking security actions when unauthorized MACs are detected. This capability prevents unauthorized device connections, MAC address spoofing, and basic Layer 2 attacks.
Port security provides multiple configuration options for different security requirements. Static MAC addresses manually configured on ports ensure only specific known devices can connect, providing highest security for critical connections. Dynamic MAC learning allows the switch to learn MAC addresses automatically as devices connect, converting them to secure addresses up to a configured maximum, balancing security with operational flexibility. Sticky MAC learning automatically learns and saves MAC addresses to running configuration, persisting across reboots once saved to startup configuration. Maximum MAC address limits restrict how many different devices can connect to a port preventing MAC flooding attacks and unauthorized device sharing of ports.
Violation actions determine what happens when unauthorized MAC addresses are detected on secured ports. Shutdown mode, the default and most secure, error-disables the port requiring administrator intervention to re-enable it after investigating the security violation. Restrict mode drops frames from unauthorized MAC addresses while keeping the port operational, generating SNMP traps and syslog messages for monitoring. Protect mode drops frames from unauthorized addresses without generating notifications, providing silent protection with less operational visibility. Selection among these modes balances security with operational impacts and monitoring capabilities.
Common deployment scenarios demonstrate port security value. Securing end-user ports in office areas prevents unauthorized devices or visitors from connecting to network jacks. Protecting conference room and public area ports restricts access in locations where unauthorized individuals might attempt connections. Controlling critical infrastructure connections ensures only authorized management stations can access network device console or management ports. Preventing MAC flooding attacks limits the number of MAC addresses per port preventing attackers from overwhelming switch MAC address tables. Supporting compliance requirements demonstrates required access controls for audit and regulatory purposes.
Implementation best practices ensure effective port security deployment. Careful planning identifies which ports need security and what MAC addresses should be permitted avoiding operational disruptions. Phased deployment implements port security gradually with monitoring before enabling strict enforcement. Exception handling provides processes for temporary authorized connections like testing equipment or contractor devices. Monitoring tracks security violations investigating unauthorized connection attempts. Documentation maintains records of port security policies and authorized devices. Integration with NAC solutions like Cisco ISE provides more sophisticated device authentication and authorization beyond simple MAC address filtering.
A is incorrect because increasing port speed is accomplished through configuring interface speed and duplex settings or upgrading physical cabling and modules, not through port security which focuses on access control rather than performance.
C is incorrect because providing power to connected devices is the function of Power over Ethernet (PoE) which delivers electrical power over Ethernet cables to devices like IP phones, wireless access points, and cameras, not port security which controls device access.
D is incorrect because enabling routing between VLANs requires Layer 3 functionality on routers or Layer 3 switches with Switched Virtual Interfaces (SVIs), not port security which operates at Layer 2 and controls port-level device access rather than inter-VLAN routing.
Question 15:
Which security principle limits user access rights to only what is necessary to perform their job functions?
A) Defense in Depth
B) Principle of Least Privilege
C) Zero Trust
D) Security by Obscurity
Answer: B
Explanation:
Information security requires balancing accessibility with protection, ensuring users can access resources needed for their work while preventing unauthorized access to sensitive systems and data. Traditional approaches often granted broad permissions, allowing users more access than needed with the assumption that trusted insiders would not abuse privileges. This excessive access creates risks including accidental data exposure, insider threats, compromised accounts providing extensive access to attackers, compliance violations, and difficulty maintaining accountability. Modern security frameworks emphasize limiting access to the minimum necessary for legitimate purposes.
The Principle of Least Privilege is the security principle that limits user access rights to only what is necessary to perform their job functions, ensuring each user, application, or system has only the permissions required for its legitimate purpose and nothing more. This principle applies across all access control systems including network access, application permissions, database privileges, file system permissions, and administrative rights. By restricting access to the minimum necessary, organizations reduce the potential damage from compromised accounts, malicious insiders, or accidental misuse while improving overall security posture.
Implementing least privilege requires several practices across different technology layers. Role-based access control defines roles matching job functions assigning permissions to roles rather than individuals, ensuring users receive appropriate access based on responsibilities. Segregation of duties divides sensitive functions among multiple people preventing any single individual from completing critical transactions alone, reducing fraud risks. Periodic access reviews regularly audit user permissions removing access no longer needed as responsibilities change. Just-in-time access provides elevated privileges only when needed for specific tasks automatically removing them afterward. Time-based access implements permissions that automatically expire after specific periods forcing reassessment of continued need.
Network security implementations of least privilege restrict access at multiple points. Network Access Control solutions like Cisco ISE implement least privilege by assigning network access based on identity and context, placing users in appropriate VLANs with access only to required resources. Security Group Tags enable micro-segmentation allowing granular access control policies following users regardless of network location. Firewall rules implement least privilege allowing only necessary protocols and services between network segments blocking everything else by default. VPN access grants remote users access only to specific applications needed for their roles rather than full network access.
Application and system implementations extend least privilege. Application-level access control restricts users to only features and data relevant to their roles within applications. Database permissions grant users only necessary query, insert, update, or delete privileges on specific tables or records. Operating system accounts follow least privilege with regular users having standard privileges while administrative access requires separate accounts used only when needed. Service accounts running applications use minimal necessary permissions rather than running with administrative rights, limiting potential damage if applications are compromised.
Benefits of implementing least privilege are substantial. Reduced attack surface limits what compromised accounts can access reducing potential damage from breaches. Improved compliance meets regulatory requirements mandating access controls and demonstrating due diligence in protecting sensitive data. Enhanced accountability creates clear assignment of responsibilities with audit trails showing who accessed what resources. Decreased insider threat risk limits damage from malicious or negligent insiders by restricting what they can access. Better security incident containment limits lateral movement and privilege escalation during attacks.
A is incorrect because Defense in Depth is a security strategy implementing multiple layers of security controls so that if one layer fails others still provide protection, not specifically about limiting user access rights to minimum necessary levels.
C is incorrect because Zero Trust is a security model that assumes no user or device is inherently trustworthy requiring verification for every access attempt regardless of location, which is related to but broader than least privilege focusing on continuous verification rather than specifically minimum necessary access.