200-201 Security Policies and Procedures Practice Question
A security analyst is reviewing the organization's data classification policy. The policy defines four levels: Public, Internal, Confidential, and Restricted. The analyst is asked to classify a document that contains the company's proprietary source code. According to typical data classification standards, which classification level is most appropriate?
⚠ Common exam trap
The trap here is assuming that Confidential is the highest level, when many policies include Restricted for the most sensitive data like trade secrets.
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
✓
Restricted
Proprietary source code is a critical asset that requires the highest level of protection. The Restricted classification is designed for such data, ensuring that only authorized personnel with a specific need can access it. This minimizes the risk of intellectual property theft and aligns with common data classification policies.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
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Internal
Why it's wrong here
Internal data is meant for employees but not for external release. While source code might be shared within the company, its exposure could still be damaging. However, typical classification schemes reserve a higher level for such critical assets, so Internal does not adequately reflect the need for strict access controls.
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Confidential
Why it's wrong here
Confidential data requires protection due to its sensitive nature, but it may be shared with trusted partners under NDAs. Proprietary source code is often considered the company's crown jewels, warranting the highest level of protection. Thus, Confidential may not provide sufficient restrictions compared to Restricted.
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Restricted
Why this is correct
Restricted is the highest classification, reserved for data whose unauthorized disclosure would cause severe damage. Proprietary source code fits this category because its leak could destroy competitive advantage. This level typically enforces strict need-to-know access and strong encryption, aligning with the sensitivity of source code.
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Public
Why it's wrong here
Public data is intended for general release and poses no risk if disclosed. Proprietary source code is highly sensitive and would cause significant harm if leaked. Therefore, classifying it as Public is inappropriate and violates the policy's intent to protect valuable intellectual property.
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JA
Written and reviewed by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
Last reviewed September 2026 · checked against the official Cisco exam blueprint
This 200-201 practice question is part of Courseiva's free Cisco certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the 200-201 exam.