200-201 Security Concepts Practice Question
An organization wants to ensure that data sent over the internet cannot be read if intercepted. Which cryptographic method should be used?
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
✓
Symmetric encryption with AES
Symmetric encryption, such as AES, provides confidentiality by encrypting data so that only those with the key can read it.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Digital signature using RSA
Why it's wrong here
Digital signatures authenticate and provide non-repudiation, not confidentiality.
- ✗
Hash-based message authentication code (HMAC)
Why it's wrong here
HMAC provides integrity and authentication, not confidentiality.
- ✓
Symmetric encryption with AES
Why this is correct
Symmetric encryption like AES encrypts data for confidentiality.
- ✗
Hashing with SHA-256
Why it's wrong here
Hashing ensures integrity, not confidentiality; it is one-way.
Quick reference
Symmetric Encryption Algorithm Comparison
| Algorithm | Key Size | Block Size | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AES-128 | 128-bit | 128-bit | Current standard | NIST approved; WPA3, TLS |
| AES-256 | 256-bit | 128-bit | Current standard | Preferred for sensitive / govt data |
| 3DES | 112-bit effective | 64-bit | Deprecated (2023) | Replaced by AES |
| DES | 56-bit | 64-bit | Broken | Cracked in < 24 h; never deploy |
| ChaCha20 | 256-bit | Stream cipher | Current | TLS 1.3, WireGuard |
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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.