easyMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
CAS-004 Practice Question: A network architect is designing a DMZ for a web…
A network architect is designing a DMZ for a web application. Which of the following is the MOST appropriate placement for a reverse proxy?
⚠ Common exam trap
Many candidates mistakenly think a reverse proxy belongs inside the internal network for better performance or easier management, but the correct placement is in the DMZ to enforce security boundaries and protect internal resources.
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
✓
In the DMZ
A reverse proxy is placed in the DMZ to act as an intermediary for client requests to the web application. It terminates external connections, inspects traffic, and forwards legitimate requests to internal web servers, thereby hiding the internal server architecture and providing an additional layer of security. This placement aligns with the principle of least exposure, as the DMZ is a semi-trusted network segment designed to host publicly accessible services.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
In the management network
Why it's wrong here
The management network is for administrative access, not external traffic.
- ✓
In the DMZ
Why this is correct
The DMZ is the appropriate security zone for externally facing services.
- ✗
In the database tier
Why it's wrong here
The database tier should not be directly accessible from the internet.
- ✗
Inside the internal network
Why it's wrong here
Placing it inside would expose internal servers directly to external traffic.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This CAS-005 practice question is part of Courseiva's free CompTIA 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 CAS-005 exam.