easyMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
XK0-006 Practice Question: A Linux server is configured to use Pluggable…
A Linux server is configured to use Pluggable Authentication Modules (PAM). Which file is used to define the authentication order for the 'sshd' service?
⚠ Common exam trap
CompTIA often tests the distinction between /etc/pam.d/sshd and /etc/pam.d/login, as candidates may confuse the SSH service file with the general login file, especially since both handle authentication but for different services.
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
✓
/etc/pam.d/sshd
In Linux, PAM configuration files for individual services are stored in /etc/pam.d/, with the filename matching the service name. For the sshd service, the file /etc/pam.d/sshd defines the authentication order, including the modules and their control flags (e.g., required, sufficient) that PAM will consult during SSH login. This is the standard location per the Linux PAM architecture, as documented in the pam.conf man page.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
/etc/authselect/sshd
Why it's wrong here
authselect is a tool, but the PAM file is in /etc/pam.d/.
- ✗
/etc/security/sshd
Why it's wrong here
This is not a standard PAM configuration file.
- ✓
/etc/pam.d/sshd
Why this is correct
This is the correct PAM configuration file for the SSH daemon.
- ✗
/etc/pam.d/login
Why it's wrong here
This configures PAM for the login service, not sshd.
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Linux Fundamentals and History
Key term
Linux
Linux is an open-source operating system that manages computer hardware and software, widely used in servers, desktops, and embedded systems.
Key term
Service
A service is a software component or system that performs a specific function and is available to be used by other programs or users over a network.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This XK0-006 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 XK0-006 exam.