hardMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
CAS-004 Practice Question: Wants to implement a zero-trust architecture for…
An organization wants to implement a zero-trust architecture for remote access. Which component is most critical for enforcing least-privilege access to internal applications?
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
✓
Software-defined perimeter (SDP)
A software-defined perimeter (SDP) uses a controller to authenticate users and devices before granting access to specific applications, hiding the network from unauthorized users. VPNs extend network access, IDS only detects, and firewalls enforce network-level rules but not user/device granularity.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Virtual private network (VPN) concentrator
Why it's wrong here
VPNs provide network-level access and do not enforce application-specific least privilege.
- ✓
Software-defined perimeter (SDP)
Why this is correct
SDP creates a micro-perimeter around each application, authenticating and authorizing per session.
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Next-generation firewall (NGFW)
Why it's wrong here
NGFWs can control traffic based on user identity but usually at the network layer, not as granular as SDP.
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Intrusion detection system (IDS)
Why it's wrong here
IDS monitors traffic but does not enforce access control.
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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.