200-201 Host-Based Analysis Practice Question
An analyst is investigating a Windows host suspected of malware persistence. Which registry key is commonly used by malware to run a program every time a user logs in, located under both HKLM and HKCU?
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
✓
HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
The Run and RunOnce keys under HKLM and HKCU are common persistence mechanisms. Malware often adds entries here to execute automatically at user logon.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\Explorer\Run
Why it's wrong here
This key is also a Run key but less commonly used; the question specifies Run/RunOnce typical keys.
- ✓
HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
Why this is correct
This is a correct Run key for the current user.
- ✗
HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services
Why it's wrong here
This key stores service configuration, not Run/RunOnce.
- ✗
HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Image File Execution Options
Why it's wrong here
This key is used for debugging or hijacking executables, not for Run/RunOnce.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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.