200-201 Host-Based Analysis Practice Question
During a host-based analysis of a Windows system, an analyst finds a suspicious executable that runs every time the system boots. Which registry key is most commonly used for this type of persistence?
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
✓
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
The Run registry key under HKLM and HKCU is a common location for programs to automatically start at boot. Malicious software often adds entries here to achieve persistence.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\AppInit_DLLs
Why it's wrong here
This key is used for loading DLLs into every process, not for launching executables at boot.
- ✗
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
Why it's wrong here
RunOnce runs the program once and then deletes the entry, not for persistent execution.
- ✗
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Image File Execution Options
Why it's wrong here
This key is used for debugging and can hijack executables, but it's not the primary key for simple auto-start.
- ✓
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
Why this is correct
This is the standard Run key for system-wide startup programs.
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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.