hardMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
200-201 Practice Question: Refer to the exhibit
Exhibit
Refer to the exhibit.
```
{
"File": "C:\\Users\\jdoe\\AppData\\Local\\Temp\\update.exe",
"Process": "C:\\Windows\\System32\\msiexec.exe",
"RegistryKey": "HKLM\\SOFTWARE\\Microsoft\\Windows\\CurrentVersion\\Run\\WindowsUpdate",
"RegistryValue": "C:\\Users\\jdoe\\AppData\\Local\\Temp\\update.exe"
}
```Refer to the exhibit. A host-based analysis tool outputs a JSON report. Which persistence mechanism is being used?
⚠ Common exam trap
Cisco often tests the distinction between registry-based persistence (Run keys) and service-based persistence, where candidates mistakenly associate the word 'Service' in a key name with a Windows Service, but the actual mechanism is determined by the registry path, not the value name.
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
✓
Registry Run Key
The JSON report shows a registry key modification under `HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run`, which is a standard Registry Run Key. This key automatically launches the specified executable (`C:\Users\malware\app.exe`) at user logon, making it a persistence mechanism. The `"Value":"C:\\Users\\malware\\app.exe"` confirms the payload path, and the key name `"MaliciousService"` is irrelevant to the actual mechanism.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Windows Service
Why it's wrong here
No service entry; it's a Run key.
- ✗
Startup Folder
Why it's wrong here
Run key is separate from startup folder.
- ✓
Registry Run Key
Why this is correct
The HKLM...Run key is a common startup persistence location.
- ✗
Scheduled Task
Why it's wrong here
No task information in the exhibit.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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