200-201 Host-Based Analysis Practice Question
A Linux server has been compromised. The analyst checks for persistence mechanisms. Which THREE of the following are common Linux persistence techniques that should be examined? (Select THREE)
⚠ Common exam trap
Cisco often tests the distinction between persistence (automatic code execution) and other system modifications; the trap here is confusing a configuration change (timezone or hosts file) with a mechanism that ensures malware runs repeatedly.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Creating a systemd service unit
Creating a systemd service unit is a common Linux persistence technique because systemd is the default init system for most modern Linux distributions. An attacker can place a malicious service file (e.g., /etc/systemd/system/evil.service) that automatically starts the malware at boot or after a crash, ensuring continued access even after a reboot.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Creating a systemd service unit
Why this is correct
Systemd services can start automatically on boot.
- ✓
Cron jobs in /etc/crontab or user crontabs
Why this is correct
Malicious cron jobs can execute scripts periodically.
- ✗
Changing the system timezone
Why it's wrong here
Timezone change is not a persistence mechanism.
- ✓
Adding SSH public keys to authorized_keys
Why this is correct
Allows persistent remote access via SSH.
- ✗
Modifying the /etc/hosts file
Why it's wrong here
Hosts file is for static DNS mapping, not typically for persistence.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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