The answer is Controlled Folder Access, a Windows security feature that blocks ransomware from modifying user files by restricting which processes can write to protected folders like Documents and Pictures. This works by maintaining a trusted app list; any unauthorized program attempting to encrypt or alter files in these folders is automatically denied, preventing the encryption chain ransomware relies on. On the CompTIA A+ Core 2 220-1202 exam, this concept tests your understanding of Windows Defender Exploit Guard’s ransomware protection settings, often appearing as a scenario where you must choose the native solution over third-party tools. A common trap is confusing it with simple file permissions or BitLocker, but Controlled Folder Access is specifically designed to block untrusted processes, not just encrypt data. Memory tip: think “CFA = Can’t Fool Apps”—only pre-approved programs get past the folder guard.
220-1202 Windows Security Settings Practice Question
This 220-1202 practice question tests your understanding of windows security settings. This is a configuration task: choose the command set that satisfies every stated requirement. Small differences — like 'secret' vs 'password' or 'transport input ssh' vs 'all' — change whether the answer is correct. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
A Windows 11 workstation is infected with ransomware that encrypted user files. The IT security team wants to prevent future infections by restricting which processes can modify files in user profile folders. Which Windows security feature can enforce such restrictions without third-party software?
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Controlled Folder Access
Controlled Folder Access (part of Windows Defender Exploit Guard) allows only trusted apps to access protected folders like Documents, Pictures, etc. It can be configured via Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Ransomware protection. This effectively blocks ransomware from encrypting files.
Key principle: ACLs process entries top to bottom and stop at the first match. Entry order and interface direction matter as much as the permit or deny statement.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
✗
NTFS permissions set to 'Read-only' for all users.
Why it's wrong here
This would block all writes, including legitimate user saves, not just ransomware.
✗
AppLocker with a deny rule for unknown executables.
Why it's wrong here
AppLocker can block execution but does not protect files from being modified by allowed apps.
✓
Controlled Folder Access
Why this is correct
This feature specifically protects folders from unauthorized apps, including ransomware.
Related concept
Standard ACLs match source addresses.
✗
BitLocker with TPM protection
Why it's wrong here
BitLocker encrypts the drive but does not prevent file modification by running processes.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: ACLs stop at the first match
ACLs are processed top to bottom. The first matching entry wins, and an implicit deny usually exists at the end.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
ACL questions test precision: source, destination, protocol, port and direction. A generally correct ACL can still fail if it is applied on the wrong interface or in the wrong direction.
KKey Concepts to Remember
Standard ACLs match source addresses.
Extended ACLs can match source, destination, protocol and ports.
The first matching ACL entry is used.
There is usually an implicit deny at the end.
TExam Day Tips
→Check inbound versus outbound direction.
→Read the ACL from top to bottom.
→Look for a broader permit or deny above the intended line.
Key takeaway
ACLs process entries top to bottom and stop at the first match. Entry order and interface direction matter as much as the permit or deny statement.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A security administrator must allow nursing staff to reach a patient records server while blocking access from the guest Wi-Fi VLAN. After applying an extended ACL, traffic is still blocked from nursing workstations. The ACL was applied outbound instead of inbound on the wrong interface. Questions like this test ACL direction and placement rules.
Related glossary terms
Concepts from this question explained
These glossary pages explain the core terms tested in this 220-1202 question in full detail.
Review ACL processing order, placement rules (standard near destination, extended near source), and inbound vs outbound direction. Study wildcard masks and implicit deny. Then practise related 220-1202 ACL questions on filtering logic and placement.
Windows Security Settings — This question tests Windows Security Settings — Standard ACLs match source addresses..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Controlled Folder Access — Controlled Folder Access (part of Windows Defender Exploit Guard) allows only trusted apps to access protected folders like Documents, Pictures, etc. It can be configured via Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Ransomware protection. This effectively blocks ransomware from encrypting files.
What should I do if I get this 220-1202 question wrong?
Review ACL processing order, placement rules (standard near destination, extended near source), and inbound vs outbound direction. Study wildcard masks and implicit deny. Then practise related 220-1202 ACL questions on filtering logic and placement.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Standard ACLs match source addresses.
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Question Discussion
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