CCST - Cisco Certified Support Technician Endpoint Operating System Security Questions and Answers 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A user's computer is running unusually slow, and they are seeing frequent, unwanted pop-up advertisements. A support technician suspects a malware infection. What is the most appropriate FIRST action to take?
- Disconnect the computer from the network to prevent potential spread.
- Update the antivirus definitions and perform a full system scan. (Correct answer)
- Reinstall the operating system to ensure the malware is completely removed.
- Check for and install the latest operating system security patches.
Correct answer: Update the antivirus definitions and perform a full system scan.
The symptoms are classic indicators of a malware infection. The standard and most effective first step is to update the antivirus or antimalware software to ensure it can recognize the latest threats and then initiate a full system scan to detect and quarantine the malicious software.
Question 2: What is the primary function of a host-based firewall on an end-user's computer?
- To scan files and emails for known virus signatures.
- To encrypt all data stored on the hard drive to prevent theft.
- To inspect and filter network traffic entering and leaving that specific device. (Correct answer)
- To block access to malicious websites based on their URL.
Correct answer: To inspect and filter network traffic entering and leaving that specific device.
A host-based firewall is a software application that runs on an individual computer or device. Its main purpose is to monitor and control the network traffic for that specific host, allowing or blocking connections based on a defined set of security rules.
Question 3: Which of the following is the MOST critical reason for an organization to consistently apply operating system security patches?
- To remediate known vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers. (Correct answer)
- To add new features and improve the user interface.
- To resolve software compatibility issues with third-party applications.
- To improve overall system stability and performance.
Correct answer: To remediate known vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers.
While patches can offer performance improvements and new features, their most critical security function is to fix known vulnerabilities. Attackers actively seek out and exploit these unpatched weaknesses to compromise systems, making timely patching a crucial defensive measure.
Question 4: A company enforces a policy where employees use standard user accounts for daily tasks. When they need to install new software, they are prompted to enter administrator credentials. This practice is a direct implementation of which security principle?
- Defense in Depth
- Data Encryption
- Security through Obscurity
- Principle of Least Privilege (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Principle of Least Privilege
The Principle of Least Privilege (PoLP) states that a user or process should only have the minimum level of access (privileges) necessary to perform its required functions. By using a standard account for normal work, the potential damage from a compromised account is significantly limited.
Question 5: In the context of endpoint operating system security, what does the term 'hardening' primarily refer to?
- Physically securing a computer to a desk with a cable lock.
- Encrypting the entire hard drive to prevent data theft if the device is lost.
- Updating antivirus software with the latest malware definitions.
- Reducing the system's attack surface by disabling unnecessary services and features. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Reducing the system's attack surface by disabling unnecessary services and features.
Operating System (OS) hardening is the process of securing a system by minimizing its attack surface. This is achieved by removing non-essential software, disabling unnecessary services, closing unused ports, and configuring security settings to be more restrictive.
Question 6: A security analyst requires a solution that goes beyond traditional signature-based antivirus. The solution must provide continuous monitoring of endpoint activities, detect suspicious behavior patterns, and offer tools for threat investigation and remediation. Which type of security solution BEST fits this requirement?
- Network-based Firewall
- Full Disk Encryption (FDE)
- Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) (Correct answer)
- Host-based Intrusion Prevention System (HIPS)
Correct answer: Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)
Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions are specifically designed for this purpose. They continuously collect and analyze endpoint data, use behavioral analysis to detect advanced threats that may evade traditional antivirus, and provide security teams with the visibility and tools needed to investigate and respond to incidents.
CCST - Cisco Certified Support Technician Endpoint Operating System Security Questions and Answers 1
A user's computer is running unusually slow, and they are seeing frequent, unwanted pop-up advertisements.
A support technician suspects a malware infection.
What is the most appropriate FIRST action to take?