200-201 Network Intrusion Analysis Practice Question
An analyst reviews PCAP traffic and sees a series of HTTP POST requests from an internal host to an external IP at exactly 60-second intervals. The payload size is consistent. Which phase of the Cyber Kill Chain does this activity most likely represent?
⚠ Common exam trap
Cisco often tests the distinction between beaconing (C2) and data exfiltration (Actions on Objectives), where candidates mistakenly associate any external HTTP POST with data theft rather than recognizing the periodic pattern as command-and-control signaling.
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
✓
Command and Control
The consistent 60-second intervals and uniform payload size of HTTP POST requests from an internal host to an external IP are classic indicators of beaconing activity. In the Cyber Kill Chain, this behavior aligns with the Command and Control (C2) phase, where an established foothold communicates with an external C2 server to receive instructions or exfiltrate data. The use of HTTP POST mimics normal web traffic to evade detection, a common technique in C2 channels.
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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Delivery
Why it's wrong here
Delivery covers the initial transmission of the weapon to the victim host, typically a single inbound transfer. Here the internal host is already beaconing outward at fixed intervals, indicating command-and-control traffic. Delivery would fit a first-stage download arriving at the target.
- ✓
Command and Control
Why this is correct
Regular 60-second beaconing with consistent payload size to an external IP indicates an implanted host checking in with its controller. This periodic, uniform outbound pattern is characteristic of the Command and Control phase, where compromised systems receive instructions and exfiltrate data.
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Actions on Objectives
Why it's wrong here
Actions on Objectives means the attacker is already executing their goal, such as exfiltration or encryption. Regular fixed-interval POSTs with consistent payloads indicate beaconing to command-and-control, which precedes objectives. Actions on Objectives would fit bulk data theft or ransomware execution.
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Installation
Why it's wrong here
Installation covers establishing persistence on the compromised host, such as creating a service or scheduled task. Repeated outbound HTTP POSTs at 60-second intervals are command-and-control beaconing, not persistence installation. Installation would fit registry run keys or a new scheduled task appearing on the endpoint.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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