hardMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
CAS-004 Is migrating to a hybrid cloud model Practice Question
An organization is migrating to a hybrid cloud model. The security policy mandates that all keys used for data encryption must be managed on-premises. Which key management solution should be used?
⚠ Common exam trap
CompTIA often tests the distinction between 'key material location' and 'key management control'—candidates mistakenly think BYOK (Option A) keeps keys on-premises, but BYOK only imports the key once, after which the cloud provider manages the key lifecycle, failing the 'managed on-premises' requirement.
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
✓
HSM on-premises with key escrow
An on-premises Hardware Security Module (HSM) with key escrow satisfies the mandate that all encryption keys must be managed on-premises. HSMs provide tamper-resistant, FIPS 140-2 Level 3/4 validated hardware for key generation, storage, and cryptographic operations, while key escrow ensures keys can be recovered by authorized personnel. This combination meets the hybrid cloud requirement of keeping key management entirely within the organization's physical control.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Cloud KMS with BYOK
Why it's wrong here
BYOK still imports keys into the cloud KMS, meaning cloud provider manages key operations.
- ✓
HSM on-premises with key escrow
Why this is correct
On-premises HSM keeps keys locally, satisfying the policy; key escrow provides backup.
- ✗
Software-based key store on-premises
Why it's wrong here
Software stores lack tamper resistance and hardware security required for compliance.
- ✗
Cloud HSM
Why it's wrong here
Cloud HSM is not on-premises; keys are managed in the cloud.
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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.