hardMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
200-201 Practice Question: An analyst is performing host-based analysis on a…
An analyst is performing host-based analysis on a machine that is part of a botnet. The machine is communicating with a C2 server over HTTPS. Which host-based evidence would be most useful to identify the C2 communication?
⚠ Common exam trap
Cisco often tests the misconception that encrypted traffic cannot be analyzed at all, leading candidates to choose options like packet capture or memory dumps, when in fact DNS logs provide a clear, host-based indicator of C2 communication without requiring decryption.
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
✓
DNS logs showing queries to the C2 domain
DNS logs can reveal the domain name used for C2 communication even when the traffic is encrypted over HTTPS. Since the analyst is performing host-based analysis, DNS query logs on the host itself (e.g., from the DNS client service or a local DNS resolver) will show the host attempting to resolve the C2 domain, providing a direct indicator of the C2 server's address without needing to decrypt the HTTPS traffic.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Packet capture showing the unencrypted payload
Why it's wrong here
HTTPS is encrypted; payload cannot be seen without decryption.
- ✗
A memory dump of the process showing encryption keys
Why it's wrong here
Memory dump can capture keys, but that is advanced analysis and not the first line of evidence.
- ✓
DNS logs showing queries to the C2 domain
Why this is correct
DNS queries often precede HTTPS connections. The domain may be unique or malicious.
- ✗
Windows Event ID 5157 (Filtering Platform connection) showing the process ID
Why it's wrong here
Event ID 5157 can show process but not the DNS resolution. Still useful, but DNS logs are more directly related to C2 identification.
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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.