The correct order is memory dump, network connections, running processes, disk image. This sequence follows the order of volatility in forensic data collection, which dictates that the most fragile and easily lost data must be captured first. Memory (RAM) is the most volatile because it is cleared the instant the system loses power or is shut down, so it must be dumped immediately. Network connections and states are next, as they can change or disappear within seconds, followed by running processes, which can terminate or be hidden by malicious code. Disk images are the least volatile and can be acquired last without significant risk of data loss. On the CompTIA SecurityX CAS-004 exam, this concept tests your understanding of forensic triage and live system acquisition. A common trap is confusing the volatility of network state with processes—remember that network sockets can vanish faster than a process list can be refreshed. A useful mnemonic is “Memory, Network, Processes, Disk” or simply “My New Pet Dog” to keep the order straight.
CAS-004 Security Operations Practice Question
This CAS-004 practice question tests your understanding of security operations. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
A forensic analyst needs to collect volatile data from a live Windows system. In which order should the analyst collect the following data? (Order of volatility)
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Memory dump, network connections, running processes, disk image
Option B is correct because memory is the most volatile and should be collected first, followed by network connections, then processes, and finally disk data. Option A is wrong because disk is less volatile. Option C is wrong because processes should be after memory. Option D is wrong because network state is more volatile than disk.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
✗
Disk image, memory dump, network connections, running processes
Why it's wrong here
Disk is less volatile and should be collected later.
✓
Memory dump, network connections, running processes, disk image
Why this is correct
This follows the order of volatility from most to least volatile.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
✗
Network connections, running processes, memory dump, disk image
Why it's wrong here
Memory is more volatile than network connections.
✗
Running processes, memory dump, network connections, disk image
Why it's wrong here
Memory should be captured before processes.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
Many certification questions include familiar terms but test a specific constraint. Read the exact wording before choosing an answer that is generally true but wrong for this case.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
This question should be treated as a scenario, not a definition check. Identify the problem, the constraint and the best action. Then compare each option against those facts.
KKey Concepts to Remember
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Find the constraint that changes the correct option.
Eliminate answers that are true in general but not in this case.
Use explanations to understand the rule behind the answer.
TExam Day Tips
→Underline the problem statement mentally.
→Watch for words such as best, first, most likely and least administrative effort.
→Review why wrong options are wrong, not only why the correct option is correct.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A practitioner preparing for the CAS-004 exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
What to study next
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
Identify which CAS-004 exam domain this question belongs to, then review the specific concept being tested. Practise related questions in that domain and focus on understanding why each wrong answer is tempting — not just why the correct answer is right.
Security Operations — This question tests Security Operations — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Memory dump, network connections, running processes, disk image — Option B is correct because memory is the most volatile and should be collected first, followed by network connections, then processes, and finally disk data. Option A is wrong because disk is less volatile. Option C is wrong because processes should be after memory. Option D is wrong because network state is more volatile than disk.
What should I do if I get this CAS-004 question wrong?
Identify which CAS-004 exam domain this question belongs to, then review the specific concept being tested. Practise related questions in that domain and focus on understanding why each wrong answer is tempting — not just why the correct answer is right.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
About these practice questions
Courseiva creates original exam-style practice questions with explanations and wrong-answer analysis. It does not publish real exam questions, exam dumps, or protected exam content. Learn why practice questions differ from exam dumps →
Share a tip, memory trick, or ask about the reasoning behind this question. Do not post real exam questions, leaked content, braindumps, or copyrighted exam material. Comments are moderated and may be removed without notice.
This CAS-004 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-004 exam.
Question Discussion
Share a tip, memory trick, or ask about the reasoning behind this question. Do not post real exam questions, leaked content, braindumps, or copyrighted exam material. Comments are moderated and may be removed without notice.
Sign in to join the discussion.