Internet Security Assurance Processes

What is the first step to be completed when installing a firewall to ensure its security?

• Define where changes can be made from

• Update the firmware for the firewall to the latest vendor updates

• Delete, disable or rename any default user accounts

• Set inbound and outbound rules

Answer explanation

Updating the firmware to the latest vendor updates is crucial as it ensures the firewall has the latest security patches and features, providing a strong foundation for its security before any other configurations are made.

Which of the following is NOT an advantage of using a Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN)?

• Provides more security control

• Decreases latency

• Easier to troubleshoot problems

• Requires less planning for implementation

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'Requires less planning for implementation' because VLANs actually require careful planning to design and implement effectively, unlike the other options which are clear advantages of using VLANs.

What is a key disadvantage of physical network segmentation?

• It is less secure than VLANs

• It can be financially expensive due to extra hardware

• It increases latency

• It is difficult to scale upwards or downwards

Answer explanation

A key disadvantage of physical network segmentation is the financial cost associated with purchasing and maintaining additional hardware, making it more expensive compared to virtual solutions like VLANs.

What is the purpose of a ping test in network monitoring?

• To block unwanted traffic

• To check the response time of a request to a host

• To update firewall firmware

• To manage user privileges

Answer explanation

A ping test is used to check the response time of a request to a host, helping to diagnose network connectivity issues. It measures how long it takes for a packet to travel to the host and back.

Which of the following is a potential risk of using removable media?

• Increased network latency

• Introduction of malware

• Decreased network security

• Increased financial costs

Answer explanation

Using removable media can introduce malware, as these devices can carry malicious software from one system to another. This poses a significant risk to network security, making 'Introduction of malware' the correct choice.

Why should each person managing a firewall have their own user account?

• To reduce the cost of network management

• To ensure a full and complete audit log

• To increase network speed

• To simplify the firewall configuration

Answer explanation

Each person managing a firewall should have their own user account to ensure a full and complete audit log. This allows for tracking individual actions, enhancing accountability and security in network management.

What is the main function of network monitoring?

• To install firewalls

• To constantly check network performance

• To create VLANs

• To manage user privileges

Answer explanation

The main function of network monitoring is to constantly check network performance. This involves tracking metrics like bandwidth usage, latency, and uptime to ensure the network operates efficiently and to identify issues promptly.

What should be done with user accounts that are no longer required?

• They should be left active for future use

• They should be deleted immediately

• They should be shared among other users

• They should be downgraded to guest accounts

Answer explanation

User accounts that are no longer required should be deleted immediately to maintain security and prevent unauthorized access. Keeping them active or sharing them poses risks, while downgrading does not eliminate potential vulnerabilities.

Which of the following is a guideline for using removable media securely?

• Use simple passwords for easy access

• Ensure all removable devices are password protected

• Share devices among multiple users

• Avoid using removable media altogether

Answer explanation

The correct guideline is to ensure all removable devices are password protected. This adds a layer of security, preventing unauthorized access, unlike simple passwords or sharing devices, which can compromise data safety.

What is the purpose of setting inbound and outbound rules on a firewall?

• To increase network speed

• To inspect data packets and determine if they should be blocked or allowed

• To create VLANs

• To manage user privileges

Answer explanation

The purpose of setting inbound and outbound rules on a firewall is to inspect data packets and determine if they should be blocked or allowed, ensuring network security by controlling traffic flow.