CAS-004 Security Operations Practice Question
An organization is unable to patch a critical vulnerability in a legacy application due to vendor limitations. The risk assessment indicates a high likelihood of exploitation. Which compensating control should the organization implement to reduce the risk?
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
✓
Implement network segmentation to isolate the application
When patching is not possible, compensating controls such as network segmentation, application whitelisting, or strict access controls can mitigate the risk. Network segmentation limits the attack surface by isolating the vulnerable system.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Deploy an additional firewall in front of the application
Why it's wrong here
A firewall helps but segmentation is a broader control that includes firewalls and other restrictions.
- ✗
Disable the application until a patch is available
Why it's wrong here
This may not be feasible if the application is critical.
- ✗
Increase the frequency of vulnerability scanning
Why it's wrong here
Scanning does not prevent exploitation.
- ✓
Implement network segmentation to isolate the application
Why this is correct
Segmentation reduces exposure and potential lateral movement.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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