hardMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
CAS-004 Practice Question: Is implementing a zero-trust architecture for…
An organization is implementing a zero-trust architecture for remote access. Which component is essential for continuous authentication?
⚠ Common exam trap
Many candidates confuse the initial authentication and encryption provided by a VPN concentrator with the continuous, adaptive trust evaluation required by zero-trust, leading them to choose Option A instead of recognizing that an identity provider with continuous evaluation is the core component.
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
✓
Identity provider with continuous evaluation
In a zero-trust architecture, continuous authentication requires an identity provider (IdP) that can evaluate user and device attributes in real time, such as risk scores, location, and behavior patterns, to maintain trust throughout a session. Unlike static authentication at login, continuous evaluation ensures that access is revoked immediately if conditions change, which is essential for zero-trust remote access.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
VPN concentrator
Why it's wrong here
VPN concentrators provide encrypted tunnels but do not perform continuous authentication beyond initial login.
- ✓
Identity provider with continuous evaluation
Why this is correct
An IdP with conditional access can step up authentication based on anomalous behavior, ensuring continuous identity verification.
- ✗
Firewall with deep packet inspection
Why it's wrong here
Firewalls inspect traffic but do not manage user identity or session risk.
- ✗
Network access control (NAC)
Why it's wrong here
NAC authenticates devices at network entry but does not continuously re-evaluate user identity.
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JA
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.