200-201 Security Concepts Practice Question
Which element of the CIA triad ensures that data cannot be modified by unauthorized parties?
⚠ Common exam trap
Cisco often tests the distinction between confidentiality and integrity, where candidates mistakenly choose confidentiality because they associate encryption with all data protection, but encryption only prevents reading, not modification.
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
✓
Integrity
The integrity element of the CIA triad ensures that data cannot be modified by unauthorized parties. Integrity mechanisms, such as hashing algorithms (e.g., SHA-256) or digital signatures, detect any unauthorized changes to data in transit or at rest. If an attacker alters a packet or file, the hash value will not match, alerting the system to the breach.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Availability
Why it's wrong here
Availability ensures systems are accessible, not data integrity.
- ✗
Authentication
Why it's wrong here
Authentication verifies identity, not data integrity.
- ✓
Integrity
Why this is correct
Integrity ensures data is not altered by unauthorized parties.
- ✗
Confidentiality
Why it's wrong here
Confidentiality prevents unauthorized disclosure, not modification.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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