CAS-004 Security Operations Practice Question
A vulnerability scanner reports a critical vulnerability with a CVSS base score of 9.8 on a public-facing web server. However, the server has a compensating control: a Web Application Firewall (WAF) that blocks exploit attempts. How should the security team prioritize patching this vulnerability?
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
✓
Immediately patch the vulnerability as soon as possible
Compensating controls can reduce risk, but patching should still be prioritized for critical vulnerabilities even if compensating controls are in place, as controls can be bypassed.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Schedule patching during the next maintenance window
Why it's wrong here
Critical vulnerabilities should be patched urgently, not wait for the next window.
- ✗
Defer patching indefinitely since the WAF mitigates the risk
Why it's wrong here
WAFs can be bypassed; patching is still recommended.
- ✓
Immediately patch the vulnerability as soon as possible
Why this is correct
Critical vulnerabilities require immediate patching despite compensating controls.
- ✗
Increase the WAF rule strictness and delay patching
Why it's wrong here
Relying solely on WAF is not sufficient; patching is essential.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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