200-201 Host-Based Analysis Practice Question
An analyst is investigating a Windows system for signs of malware persistence. Which registry key is commonly used by malware to run automatically at user logon?
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
HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run is a common persistence location for user-level autoruns.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
Why this is correct
This key contains programs that run automatically when the current user logs in.
- ✗
HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services
Why it's wrong here
This key stores service configurations, not typical autorun entries.
- ✗
HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Uninstall
Why it's wrong here
This key lists installed programs for removal, not persistence.
- ✗
HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\UserAssist
Why it's wrong here
UserAssist tracks executed programs but does not directly run them at startup.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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