Cisco 300-710 Securing Networks with Cisco Firepower (300-710 SNCF) Exam Dumps and Practice Test Questions Set 13 Q181-195

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Question 181

Which feature of Cisco Firepower enables administrators to apply policies based on applications regardless of port or protocol?

A) Application Visibility and Control (AVC)
B) VLAN Trunking
C) NAT Policies
D) DHCP Snooping

Answer:  A) Application Visibility and Control (AVC)

Explanation:

Application Visibility and Control (AVC) in Cisco Firepower provides the ability to identify, monitor, and enforce policies on applications independently of the ports or protocols they use. Traditional port-based rules are no longer sufficient because many modern applications use dynamic ports, port-hopping, or encryption to bypass network controls. AVC uses deep packet inspection, behavioral analysis, and contextual recognition to detect applications regardless of port number, allowing administrators to manage application usage and enforce policies such as blocking, limiting, or prioritizing specific applications. This enables organizations to reduce risk from unauthorized applications, enforce productivity policies, and prevent shadow IT activity. Administrators can monitor bandwidth usage by application, enforce usage restrictions for specific user groups, and integrate application data with access control policies to provide granular enforcement.

VLAN Trunking organizes network traffic into multiple VLANs over a single link but does not identify or control applications. While VLANs are useful for segmentation and isolation, they cannot inspect or enforce application-specific policies.

NAT Policies translate IP addresses and port numbers between networks to enable connectivity and address conservation. NAT does not provide visibility into application identity or allow control based on application behavior.

DHCP Snooping protects against rogue DHCP servers and unauthorized IP assignment, but does not provide application-level identification or control. Its purpose is network integrity, not application enforcement.

AVC improves network security and operational control by ensuring applications can be managed and monitored in a port-independent manner. It enhances visibility into both approved and unauthorized applications, supports reporting and compliance, and allows administrators to take action against applications that pose security or productivity risks. By combining application recognition with policy enforcement, AVC is an essential tool in next-generation firewall environments, making it the correct answer.

Question 182

What is the purpose of the Advanced Malware Protection (AMP) feature in Cisco Firepower?

A) To provide application-layer firewalling
B) To detect, analyze, and block malware using static and dynamic methods
C) To manage VLAN assignments
D) To configure SSL certificates

Answer: B) To detect, analyze, and block malware using static and dynamic methods

Explanation:

Advanced Malware Protection (AMP) in Cisco Firepower is a comprehensive threat detection feature that focuses on identifying and mitigating malware. AMP uses both static file analysis and dynamic sandboxing to detect malicious files before they can affect endpoints or networks. Static analysis examines known malware signatures, file hashes, and behavioral patterns to identify threats, while dynamic analysis executes unknown files in a secure virtual environment to observe behavior and determine malicious intent. AMP also tracks file activity over time, enabling retrospective security, so if a previously allowed file is later identified as malicious, administrators can see which hosts were affected and remediate accordingly. Integration with Firepower’s access control policies ensures that malware detection can trigger blocking, quarantining, or alerting actions, creating a preventive security layer that reduces risk exposure. AMP also generates detailed logs and reports, supporting incident response and forensic investigations.

Application-layer firewalling enforces rules based on protocol and application behavior but does not perform malware detection or file analysis. While it is important for controlling network traffic, it is not designed to identify or mitigate malware.

VLAN assignments organize network traffic into segments but do not detect or block malware. Segmentation supports containment strategies but does not provide active threat analysis.

SSL certificate configuration ensures secure communications by establishing trust and encryption, but does not perform malware analysis or prevention. SSL management is a security enabler but does not protect against malicious files.

AMP enhances security by combining file inspection, sandboxing, behavioral analysis, and retrospective evaluation. It provides visibility into threats both at the time of detection and post-event, improving overall defense against advanced malware campaigns. The integration of AMP with Firepower policies ensures a proactive response to threats, making AMP the correct answer.

Question 183

Which Firepower feature provides detailed logging and analysis of user and application activity for security and compliance purposes?

A) Syslog Forwarding
B) Event Logging and Reporting
C) VLAN Tagging
D) NAT Translation

Answer: B) Event Logging and Reporting

Explanation:

Event Logging and Reporting in Cisco Firepower provides administrators with detailed insight into network, user, and application activity. This feature captures events such as blocked connections, intrusion detection alerts, malware activity, file analysis results, URL filtering actions, and access control policy enforcement. Logs are stored centrally on the Firepower Management Center, allowing analysts to search, filter, and generate reports for security monitoring, compliance audits, and operational review. Event Logging enables organizations to understand network behavior, detect anomalies, and respond to incidents efficiently. Reports can be scheduled or generated on demand, covering user activity, application usage, threat detection trends, and policy compliance. This visibility supports both operational security and regulatory requirements, helping organizations maintain governance over network usage and ensure adherence to internal and external policies.

Syslog forwarding transmits logs to external monitoring systems but does not provide analysis or built-in reporting. While syslog supports integration with SIEM tools, the central logging, correlation, and reporting capabilities are part of Firepower’s event logging framework.

VLAN Tagging organizes traffic into segments but does not generate security-related logs or provide compliance reporting. VLANs aid network organization and isolation, but are not a monitoring or analysis tool.

NAT Translation modifies IP addresses and ports to maintain connectivity, but does not provide visibility or reporting of user or application activity. NAT affects network routing but is unrelated to logging for security purposes.

Event Logging and Reporting allows administrators to correlate events, identify trends, track threats, and generate compliance reports. Integration with other Firepower features, such as IPS, AMP, URL Filtering, and AVC, enhances the depth of information captured. This centralized insight is essential for incident response, forensic analysis, and security governance. By providing comprehensive logging and analytical capabilities, Event Logging and Reporting enables organizations to maintain security oversight and ensure regulatory compliance, making it the correct answer.

Question 184

Which Cisco Firepower feature allows traffic inspection and enforcement for encrypted HTTPS connections?

A) SSL Decryption
B) VLAN Tagging
C) NAT Policies
D) DHCP Snooping

Answer:  A) SSL Decryption

Explanation:

SSL Decryption in Cisco Firepower allows the firewall to inspect encrypted HTTPS traffic for malicious content, policy violations, or threats hidden within encrypted sessions. As more traffic on corporate networks is encrypted, malicious actors increasingly use SSL/TLS to hide malware or exfiltrate sensitive data. Without decryption, traffic appears opaque to the firewall, making traditional inspection tools like IPS, AMP, URL Filtering, or Security Intelligence ineffective. SSL Decryption intercepts traffic, decrypts it, inspects the content using security policies, and then re-encrypts it before sending it to the destination. Administrators can configure decryption policies to selectively inspect traffic based on source, destination, application, or content type, ensuring sensitive traffic such as financial or medical information is exempted for privacy compliance. SSL Decryption also provides logging for visibility, allowing the organization to understand encrypted traffic patterns and identify potential threats that were previously invisible.

VLAN Tagging is a Layer 2 network function used for segmentation and traffic separation. While VLANs help organize and isolate traffic, they do not decrypt or inspect encrypted connections.

NAT Policies modify IP addresses or ports for connectivity purposes but do not inspect the content of encrypted traffic. NAT does not provide security inspection capabilities on SSL sessions.

DHCP Snooping protects against rogue DHCP servers by validating IP assignments on a network. It has no function related to inspecting or decrypting encrypted traffic.

By implementing SSL Decryption, Firepower ensures that encrypted traffic does not become a blind spot in network security. Combined with IPS, AMP, and URL Filtering, decryption enables comprehensive threat prevention and policy enforcement across both unencrypted and encrypted traffic. This makes SSL Decryption the correct answer.

Question 185

What is the purpose of a Security Intelligence Policy in Cisco Firepower?

A) To assign VLANs for traffic segmentation
B) To block or monitor traffic based on known malicious IPs, URLs, or domains
C) To configure VPN connections for remote users
D) To manage DHCP leases

Answer: B) To block or monitor traffic based on known malicious IPs, URLs, or domains

Explanation:

A Security Intelligence Policy in Cisco Firepower allows administrators to leverage reputation-based threat intelligence to control network traffic. These policies can block or monitor traffic associated with IP addresses, URLs, or domains that have been identified as malicious. By using global threat intelligence sources like Cisco Talos or custom-defined lists, Security Intelligence provides proactive protection against botnets, malware distribution, phishing sites, and command-and-control servers. Policies can be enforced inline for immediate blocking or in monitoring mode to generate alerts without interrupting traffic flow. Security Intelligence policies reduce exposure to known threats and minimize unnecessary inspection by filtering clearly malicious traffic early, conserving system resources for more complex analysis. Administrators can apply different actions based on network zones, users, or risk levels, providing flexible enforcement that complements other Firepower security features.

Assigning VLANs is a network segmentation function that organizes traffic but does not provide threat intelligence or block malicious sources.

Configuring VPN connections ensures secure communication for remote users, but does not enforce threat-based blocking or monitoring. VPNs are primarily connectivity tools rather than security enforcement mechanisms.

Managing DHCP leases assigns IP addresses and manages client network connectivity, but has no role in threat prevention or monitoring.

Security Intelligence Policies provide a proactive layer of defense by preventing connections with known malicious entities. They enhance overall network security by integrating reputation-based controls with access control policies, intrusion prevention, malware inspection, and URL filtering. These policies improve threat visibility, reduce risk exposure, and support compliance and incident response, making them the correct answer.

Question 186

Which Firepower component enables administrators to centrally manage multiple Firepower devices, policies, and events?

A) Firepower Management Center (FMC)
B) AnyConnect Client
C) VLAN Trunking
D) DHCP Relay

Answer:  A) Firepower Management Center (FMC)

Explanation:

The Firepower Management Center (FMC) is the centralized management platform for Cisco Firepower devices. It provides administrators with the ability to configure and deploy access control policies, intrusion prevention rules, Security Intelligence, URL Filtering, SSL Decryption, AMP, and other features across multiple managed appliances. FMC centralizes logging, reporting, and event correlation, allowing security teams to analyze network activity, track threats, and monitor compliance across the entire deployment. By aggregating event data from Firepower Threat Defense devices, FMC enables comprehensive visibility and facilitates efficient incident response and threat hunting. Administrators can schedule or generate detailed reports on user activity, application usage, malware incidents, and policy enforcement. FMC also supports health monitoring, showing operational status of all managed devices, including performance metrics and signature update status.

The AnyConnect Client provides secure remote access for endpoints but does not manage policies or events for multiple Firepower devices. Its function is endpoint connectivity and security posture enforcement, not centralized management.

VLAN Trunking enables multiple VLANs to share a single link, helping with network segmentation. While important for traffic isolation, it does not provide policy management or event correlation for security appliances.

DHCP Relay facilitates IP address assignment across network segments but does not manage security policies, devices, or log events. Its purpose is connectivity, not security management.

Firepower Management Center is the central hub for policy deployment, event correlation, and reporting, ensuring consistent and efficient management of all Firepower security functions. It allows administrators to maintain visibility and control across complex network environments and respond proactively to emerging threats. This makes Firepower Management Center the correct answer.

Question 187

Which feature of Cisco Firepower allows administrators to inspect files in real time and determine if they are malicious before delivery to endpoints?

A) File Policies
B) VLAN Segmentation
C) NAT Policies
D) DHCP Snooping

Answer:  A) File Policies

Explanation:

File Policies in Cisco Firepower provide administrators with the ability to inspect files traversing the network in real time and enforce actions based on the results of the inspection. These policies are part of the next-generation firewall capabilities and work in conjunction with Advanced Malware Protection (AMP) and Threat Grid to evaluate the safety of files before they reach endpoints. File Policies are applied to traffic passing through inspection engines on Firepower Threat Defense devices and can analyze files transferred over common protocols such as HTTP, HTTPS, SMTP, FTP, and SMB. Administrators can configure File Policies to allow, block, quarantine, or submit files for further analysis depending on the risk level and organizational policy. This capability ensures that malware, ransomware, or other potentially harmful content is identified and mitigated before it affects endpoint devices or critical network resources.

The evaluation process in File Policies includes multiple layers of analysis. Initially, files can be compared against known malware signatures using AMP for Networks. This static analysis involves checking file hashes, examining file metadata, and evaluating known indicators of compromise. Files that are previously unseen or do not match signatures are then candidates for dynamic analysis. Cisco Threat Grid provides a sandboxing environment where files are executed in a virtualized system to observe behavioral indicators of malicious intent. During this dynamic analysis, Threat Grid monitors file actions such as unauthorized system modifications, registry changes, communication with command-and-control servers, encryption routines, or attempts to propagate to other systems. The results of this analysis are fed back into the File Policy, which can automatically take enforcement actions such as blocking the file or alerting administrators. This combination of static and dynamic analysis ensures a comprehensive defense against known and unknown threats.

Administrators can also configure File Policies to integrate with Security Intelligence and Access Control Policies. For example, files originating from a source listed in a malicious IP reputation feed can be blocked immediately, whereas files from trusted internal systems might undergo only limited inspection. File Policies allow flexible thresholds for different types of traffic and file categories, enabling organizations to balance security and operational efficiency. Reporting and logging functions capture detailed information about file transfers, detections, and actions taken, which is crucial for compliance audits, forensic investigations, and operational analysis. By understanding which files were allowed, blocked, or submitted for analysis, security teams can trace the source of threats and take corrective actions to reduce risk.

File Policies are particularly important in environments where users frequently exchange files through email, cloud services, or removable media. Without real-time file inspection, organizations risk malware propagation and data breaches. File Policies complement other security functions such as URL Filtering, SSL Decryption, and Application Visibility and Control. For example, SSL-decrypted traffic can be subjected to File Policy inspection, ensuring that encrypted malware does not bypass security checks. Similarly, AVC can identify the application associated with the file transfer, providing context for enforcement actions. Combining these features ensures a multi-layered defense strategy that addresses threats at multiple points in the network.

Other features listed as options do not provide the same capabilities. VLAN Segmentation isolates network traffic based on Layer 2 domains to enhance security, but does not inspect files for malicious content. NAT Policies translate IP addresses and ports to maintain connectivity across networks, but offer no malware detection or file inspection. DHCP Snooping validates IP assignments to prevent unauthorized devices from distributing network addresses, but it is unrelated to threat prevention or file analysis. These functions serve important networking roles but do not contribute to real-time threat detection or enforcement at the file level.

By deploying File Policies effectively, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of malware infections, ransomware attacks, and data exfiltration. The ability to inspect files before they reach endpoints ensures that security measures are applied at the perimeter, mitigating potential threats before they cause damage. File Policies integrate seamlessly with Firepower Management Center, enabling centralized management, detailed reporting, and consistent enforcement across multiple devices. This proactive approach to file security is a critical component of a comprehensive network defense strategy, making File Policies the correct answer.

Question 188

Which Cisco Firepower feature enables dynamic analysis of suspicious files in a secure sandbox environment to detect unknown malware?

A) Cisco Threat Grid
B) VLAN Trunking
C) NAT Policies
D) DHCP Snooping

Answer:  A) Cisco Threat Grid

Explanation:

Cisco Threat Grid is a core feature of Cisco Firepower that provides advanced sandboxing capabilities for dynamic malware analysis. Unlike static analysis, which relies on known signatures, Threat Grid executes files in a secure virtual environment to observe behavioral patterns indicative of malicious activity. This capability is critical because many modern malware variants, including zero-day threats and polymorphic ransomware, can evade traditional signature-based defenses. Threat Grid’s sandbox environment simulates a real operating system and application environment, allowing files to behave naturally while being monitored for malicious activity. The dynamic analysis can detect actions such as unauthorized file modifications, registry changes, privilege escalation attempts, data exfiltration, and communication with command-and-control servers. By observing these behaviors, Threat Grid identifies previously unknown threats and generates actionable intelligence that Firepower can use to block the file or alert administrators.

The dynamic analysis process in Threat Grid is highly automated. Suspicious files identified by AMP, File Policies, or Security Intelligence are submitted to the sandbox environment. During execution, Threat Grid monitors API calls, system changes, network connections, and other behavioral indicators. The results are analyzed using behavioral algorithms that can identify subtle patterns associated with malicious activity. After analysis, Threat Grid produces a detailed report outlining the file’s behavior, threat score, and indicators of compromise. This report is integrated into Firepower’s management system, allowing administrators to make informed decisions about blocking, quarantining, or monitoring the file across the network. Threat Grid also updates global intelligence databases, improving detection capabilities for future encounters with similar files.

Threat Grid is particularly valuable in environments with high file exchange volumes, such as corporate networks, email servers, and cloud storage systems. Files that appear benign during initial inspection can later be re-evaluated through retrospective analysis if Threat Grid identifies them as malicious. This ensures that security policies are continuously enforced and reduces the risk of malware propagation. By correlating sandbox analysis with endpoint activity, Threat Grid also aids forensic investigations, helping administrators understand the extent of exposure and affected systems.

Other features listed as options do not provide sandbox-based dynamic analysis. VLAN Trunking is used for network segmentation and traffic isolation at Layer 2. While it improves network management and security isolation, it does not analyze files or detect malware. NAT Policies are designed to translate IP addresses and ports to enable connectivity between different networks. They do not provide inspection or behavioral analysis of files. DHCP Snooping protects against rogue DHCP servers and unauthorized IP assignments, but does not analyze files or detect malware activity.

Threat Grid integrates seamlessly with File Policies, AMP, and Access Control Policies in Firepower. By submitting files dynamically for analysis, it complements static signature detection and provides a deeper layer of defense against evolving threats. The combination of sandbox analysis, behavioral monitoring, and integration with centralized management ensures that both known and unknown threats are detected and mitigated effectively. Administrators can configure automated responses based on Threat Grid analysis results, including blocking the file, alerting the security team, or allowing conditional access.

Overall, Cisco Threat Grid enhances the capability of Firepower appliances to identify and respond to advanced malware threats that would otherwise bypass traditional security measures. Its ability to perform dynamic analysis in a controlled environment and generate actionable intelligence is a critical component of a layered security strategy. By proactively detecting unknown malware, Threat Grid reduces risk, supports incident response, and strengthens overall network security posture, making it the correct answer.

Question 189

What is the primary purpose of Retrospective Security in Cisco Firepower?

A) To reanalyze previously allowed files after new threat intelligence identifies them as malicious
B) To assign VLAN tags for network segmentation
C) To optimize QoS for application traffic
D) To manage DHCP leases

Answer:  A) To reanalyze previously allowed files after new threat intelligence identifies them as malicious

Explanation:

Retrospective Security in Cisco Firepower is a critical capability that enhances network defense by enabling continuous evaluation of files and traffic that were previously considered benign. The central concept behind Retrospective Security is that malware and advanced threats are often discovered after they have already entered a network. In many cases, a file may initially pass through security appliances without triggering alarms because it is unknown, new, or evades signature-based detection. Once new threat intelligence becomes available, Retrospective Security allows administrators to retroactively assess files that have already passed through the network, ensuring that malicious content does not go unnoticed and unmitigated. This proactive reevaluation is crucial in defending against zero-day attacks, polymorphic malware, and advanced persistent threats, which frequently bypass initial inspection.

Retrospective Security works closely with Advanced Malware Protection (AMP) and File Policies. AMP tracks every file entering the network and records its metadata, hash, and movement across systems. When a file that was initially allowed is later identified as malicious through updated threat intelligence feeds or sandbox analysis, Retrospective Security generates alerts indicating which endpoints or network segments were exposed. Administrators can then take corrective actions, such as isolating affected hosts, revoking network access, deleting or quarantining the malicious file, and updating security policies to prevent similar threats in the future. This ensures that the organization maintains ongoing protection even for threats that could have previously bypassed detection.

The process involves several steps. First, Firepower appliances continuously log and maintain records of files that pass through inspection engines, whether blocked or allowed. Second, Cisco Threat Grid, AMP, and Security Intelligence feeds provide updated intelligence on newly discovered malware, including behavioral indicators, hashes, and reputational data. Third, Retrospective Security correlates this intelligence with previously logged files to identify any potential threats that were not recognized during their initial traversal. Alerts generated by this correlation include detailed information about the affected files, the systems they touched, and the appropriate mitigation steps. This capability allows administrators to respond quickly and minimize potential damage from previously unknown threats.

Retrospective Security also provides significant benefits for forensic analysis and compliance. By maintaining a historical record of file activity and tracking any subsequent malicious reclassification, organizations can demonstrate due diligence in monitoring threats and responding appropriately. Security teams can generate reports on retrospective detections to understand exposure levels, assess risk, and support regulatory or audit requirements. Furthermore, the insight gained from retrospective evaluations helps improve signature-based and behavioral detection systems, creating a feedback loop that strengthens overall security posture.

Other options do not provide this functionality. VLAN tagging is primarily a Layer 2 network segmentation technique to separate traffic and enhance network organization; it does not perform retrospective threat analysis or track files. Optimizing QoS ensures proper bandwidth allocation and prioritization for applications but has no role in identifying malware or reevaluating previously allowed content. DHCP lease management assigns IP addresses to devices on a network but does not provide visibility into threat activity or allow retroactive security enforcement.

Retrospective Security integrates with the Firepower Management Center (FMC), enabling administrators to view detailed logs, alerts, and reports about reclassified files. This centralized management ensures consistency across multiple Firepower devices and simplifies response coordination across distributed networks. It allows security teams to implement automated or manual remediation processes depending on organizational policies, thereby limiting exposure and mitigating risk efficiently. By continuously reevaluating previously allowed content, Retrospective Security fills a crucial gap in network defense that traditional real-time inspection cannot address alone.

Retrospective Security in Cisco Firepower empowers organizations to detect and respond to threats that bypassed initial inspection, enabling proactive mitigation, enhanced visibility, compliance support, and continuous improvement of network defenses. It ensures that even files that initially appeared safe are monitored and reanalyzed as threat intelligence evolves, making it the correct answer.

Question 190

Which Firepower feature allows administrators to enforce security policies based on user identity rather than just IP address?

A) Identity-Based Access Control (IBAC)
B) VLAN Trunking
C) NAT Policies
D) DHCP Snooping

Answer:  A) Identity-Based Access Control (IBAC)

Explanation:

Identity-Based Access Control (IBAC) in Cisco Firepower allows organizations to create security policies that are tied to the identity of users or groups rather than being dependent solely on IP addresses. In modern dynamic networks, users often access resources from multiple devices, subnets, or remote locations. IP-based policies alone may fail to enforce security consistently because IP addresses can change frequently, and mobile or remote users may appear in different network segments. IBAC solves this problem by integrating with identity sources such as Active Directory, LDAP, or RADIUS to correlate users with network activity. This correlation enables administrators to create granular policies that differentiate access levels, enforce role-based restrictions, and monitor user behavior effectively.

With IBAC, administrators can allow or deny access to applications, network resources, or websites based on user identity. For instance, employees in the finance department may be granted access to sensitive financial systems while contractors or temporary staff are restricted to general resources. IBAC policies can also integrate with URL Filtering, Application Visibility and Control (AVC), and Advanced Malware Protection (AMP) to enforce user-specific security decisions. Traffic associated with specific users can be subjected to additional inspections, logging, or monitoring based on organizational requirements.

The benefit of using IBAC is enhanced visibility and control. Security teams gain insights into which users are interacting with which applications and systems. They can also detect anomalies, such as unauthorized attempts to access sensitive resources. When combined with centralized logging and reporting through Firepower Management Center (FMC), IBAC supports compliance audits and ensures that security policies align with regulatory and internal governance requirements. Furthermore, IBAC improves incident response by allowing administrators to trace malicious or suspicious activity to specific user accounts rather than generic IP addresses, facilitating accountability and targeted remediation.

Other options do not provide user-based policy enforcement. VLAN Trunking is used for Layer 2 traffic segmentation and does not associate network traffic with individual user identities. NAT Policies modify IP addresses and port mappings to enable network connectivity but have no capability to enforce rules based on user identity. DHCP Snooping validates IP address assignments and protects against rogue DHCP servers but does not correlate traffic with user accounts or provide identity-based policy enforcement.

IBAC integrates seamlessly with other Firepower features to enforce security in dynamic environments. For example, user identity can influence URL Filtering categories, malware inspection actions, and application prioritization. By creating policies that respond to user identity, organizations can maintain consistent security controls regardless of device or network location. This makes Identity-Based Access Control the correct answer.

Question 191

What is the main purpose of URL Filtering in Cisco Firepower?

A) To block or allow access to websites based on categories, reputation, or compliance requirements
B) To optimize traffic performance using QoS
C) To segment network traffic using VLANs
D) To assign IP addresses to users

Answer:  A) To block or allow access to websites based on categories, reputation, or compliance requirements

Explanation:

URL Filtering in Cisco Firepower provides organizations with the ability to control access to websites based on predefined categories, security reputation, or compliance requirements. This feature protects users from accessing malicious websites, phishing pages, inappropriate content, and sites associated with malware or ransomware. URL Filtering is integrated with the access control policies of Firepower, enabling administrators to allow, block, or monitor traffic to specific URL categories while applying rules based on user identity, network zone, time of day, or device type. By categorizing web content and applying policies, organizations can enforce acceptable use policies, reduce security risks, and ensure compliance with internal governance or regulatory standards.

URL Filtering operates in both real-time and proactive modes. When users attempt to access a URL, the Firepower appliance evaluates the request against its URL database, which is continuously updated with threat intelligence from Cisco Talos and other sources. URLs can be blocked if they are classified as malicious or non-compliant. For unknown or newly observed domains, URL Filtering can log access attempts and submit them for further investigation. Combined with SSL Decryption, URL Filtering can inspect encrypted HTTPS traffic, ensuring that even secure websites are evaluated for risk. This prevents malware from bypassing detection simply by using encryption, addressing a common blind spot in network security.

The benefits of URL Filtering extend to monitoring and reporting. Administrators can generate detailed reports on user activity, blocked attempts, and compliance violations, supporting both operational insight and regulatory audits. URL Filtering also complements other Firepower features, including Application Visibility and Control (AVC) and Security Intelligence, providing layered security. By blocking access to high-risk websites, URL Filtering reduces the chance of malware infection, phishing attacks, and data exfiltration while maintaining productivity and compliance.

Other options do not achieve these goals. QoS optimizes network performance and prioritizes traffic but does not enforce security or block websites. VLAN segmentation organizes traffic at Layer 2 but provides no content-based enforcement. Assigning IP addresses manages network connectivity but offers no capability to control access to web content.

By enforcing policies based on URL categories, risk reputation, or compliance requirements, URL Filtering provides proactive protection against web-based threats. It ensures that users are not exposed to harmful content and enables administrators to maintain regulatory compliance, making URL Filtering the correct answer.

Question 192

Which Cisco Firepower feature tracks the movement and behavior of files across the network to support forensic analysis and threat remediation?

A) File Trajectory
B) VLAN Segmentation
C) NAT Policies
D) DHCP Snooping

Answer:  A) File Trajectory

Explanation:

File Trajectory in Cisco Firepower provides detailed visibility into the movement and behavior of files across the network. It allows administrators to track a file from the point of entry through all systems it touches, enabling comprehensive forensic analysis and threat remediation. This feature is particularly important for identifying the scope of exposure after a malware or ransomware incident, as it shows which endpoints, servers, and network segments were affected. File Trajectory captures metadata about each file, including its hash, size, source, destination, and timestamps, allowing analysts to reconstruct the file’s path.

File Trajectory integrates with Advanced Malware Protection (AMP) and Threat Grid. When a file is detected as malicious or reclassified through Retrospective Security, File Trajectory provides a clear visualization of all affected systems. Administrators can then take targeted remediation steps, such as isolating hosts, removing malicious files, or updating security policies to block similar threats in the future. This tracking capability is crucial for incident response, enabling rapid identification and containment of threats while minimizing operational disruption.

Unlike VLAN Segmentation, which only isolates traffic, or NAT Policies, which modify IP addresses for connectivity, File Trajectory provides actionable security intelligence regarding file movement. DHCP Snooping protects against rogue IP assignments but does not monitor or analyze files.

By enabling detailed tracking, File Trajectory supports compliance reporting, risk assessment, and forensic investigation. It ensures that administrators understand the impact of malicious files and can take effective measures to prevent future incidents, making it the correct answer.

Question 193

Which Cisco Firepower feature enables administrators to inspect and control traffic at the application layer, regardless of port or protocol?

A) Application Visibility and Control (AVC)
B) VLAN Trunking
C) NAT Policies
D) DHCP Snooping

Answer:  A) Application Visibility and Control (AVC)

Explanation:

Application Visibility and Control (AVC) in Cisco Firepower provides the ability to identify, monitor, and enforce policies on applications independently of the ports or protocols they use. Modern applications often use dynamic ports, tunneling, or encryption, which makes traditional port-based firewall rules insufficient for effective security enforcement. AVC uses deep packet inspection, behavioral analysis, and contextual recognition to detect applications regardless of their transport characteristics. This capability ensures that administrators can control access, monitor usage, and enforce policies based on the application itself, not just IP or port information.

AVC integrates with access control policies to allow, block, or monitor applications in real time. It can also prioritize critical applications while restricting or limiting bandwidth for less important or potentially risky applications. By mapping application usage to user identities, AVC provides granular control, enabling organizations to enforce role-based access policies and improve security without disrupting legitimate business activity. AVC also generates detailed logs and reports, allowing administrators to analyze application usage trends, detect anomalies, and support compliance requirements.

The dynamic analysis capability of AVC ensures that new applications or versions are correctly identified even if they use non-standard ports. This helps prevent shadow IT, unauthorized applications, or potentially risky software from bypassing security controls. Administrators can define rules for application categories such as collaboration tools, streaming services, social media, or file-sharing platforms, allowing policy enforcement that aligns with organizational requirements. Integration with SSL Decryption ensures that encrypted traffic is properly inspected, preventing threats from hiding within secure connections.

Other options do not provide this functionality. VLAN Trunking isolates traffic into separate broadcast domains but does not recognize or control applications. NAT Policies translate IP addresses and ports for network connectivity but do not enforce application-layer security. DHCP Snooping ensures that IP addresses are properly assigned and prevents rogue DHCP servers but does not analyze application traffic.

By enabling application-aware enforcement, AVC enhances network visibility, improves security posture, and supports compliance with organizational policies. Administrators gain actionable insights into both approved and unauthorized applications, enabling proactive mitigation of potential risks. This makes Application Visibility and Control the correct answer.

Question 194

Which Cisco Firepower feature allows administrators to block traffic to known malicious IP addresses, URLs, or domains using automated threat intelligence?

A) Security Intelligence Feeds
B) VLAN Trunking
C) NAT Policies
D) DHCP Snooping

Answer:  A) Security Intelligence Feeds

Explanation:

Security Intelligence Feeds in Cisco Firepower provide automated, real-time access to threat intelligence to block known malicious IP addresses, URLs, and domains. These feeds leverage global threat intelligence sources, such as Cisco Talos, to provide continuously updated data on emerging threats. By integrating Security Intelligence Feeds with access control policies, administrators can proactively block traffic to or from compromised hosts, command-and-control servers, phishing sites, and other malicious entities. This capability helps prevent malware propagation, data exfiltration, and other network threats before they can reach endpoints or critical systems.

Security Intelligence Feeds can be configured for inline enforcement, where traffic from malicious sources is automatically blocked, or for monitoring mode, where traffic is allowed but logged for analysis. Administrators can also define custom threat lists tailored to their organizational requirements, such as blocking high-risk geographies or specific IP ranges associated with malicious activity. The feeds are continually updated, ensuring that Firepower appliances can respond dynamically to emerging threats.

The main advantage of Security Intelligence Feeds is proactive prevention. Instead of relying solely on reactive detection via signatures or behavioral analysis, the network is protected in real time against known malicious entities. Alerts generated from blocked traffic provide valuable context for incident response, allowing security teams to investigate potential breaches and take corrective action. Integration with Firepower Management Center (FMC) enables centralized management, reporting, and analysis, making it easier to maintain visibility across multiple devices.

Other options do not provide this functionality. VLAN Trunking organizes network traffic but does not block malicious traffic. NAT Policies translate IP addresses and ports to maintain connectivity, without enforcing threat intelligence. DHCP Snooping protects against unauthorized IP assignments but does not control traffic to or from malicious entities.

By applying automated threat intelligence, Security Intelligence Feeds enhance the effectiveness of Firepower’s layered security approach. They reduce exposure to known threats, conserve system resources by filtering out obvious malicious traffic, and support operational security and compliance objectives. This makes Security Intelligence Feeds the correct answer.

Question 195

Which Cisco Firepower feature provides centralized management, configuration, logging, and reporting for multiple Firepower devices?

A) Firepower Management Center (FMC)
B) AnyConnect Client
C) VLAN Trunking
D) DHCP Relay

Answer:  A) Firepower Management Center (FMC)

Explanation:

Firepower Management Center (FMC) is the centralized platform for managing Cisco Firepower devices. FMC provides administrators with the ability to deploy and configure access control policies, intrusion prevention rules, Advanced Malware Protection, URL Filtering, Security Intelligence, Application Visibility and Control, SSL Decryption, and other security features across multiple managed devices. By centralizing configuration and management, FMC ensures consistent policy enforcement and reduces administrative complexity, particularly in large, distributed network environments.

FMC also collects and aggregates logs, alerts, and events from all managed devices. Security teams can correlate events, generate reports, and analyze trends across the organization. This capability is critical for incident response, forensic investigation, and compliance reporting. Detailed dashboards provide visibility into threat activity, policy violations, and network health, helping administrators prioritize actions and maintain operational oversight. FMC also enables scheduling and automation for tasks such as signature updates, policy deployment, and report generation, ensuring that devices remain current and security enforcement is consistent.

Other options do not provide centralized management. AnyConnect Client provides secure remote access for endpoints but does not manage policies or events across multiple devices. VLAN Trunking isolates traffic across Layer 2 domains but does not offer policy management or centralized logging. DHCP Relay facilitates IP address assignment but does not provide centralized security management or reporting.

By using FMC, organizations gain a unified interface to manage policies, analyze events, and enforce security consistently across their Firepower deployment. It enhances operational efficiency, supports compliance objectives, and improves response to security incidents. This makes Firepower Management Center the correct answer.