XK0-006 Security Practice Question
A security audit reveals that a Linux system allows password-based SSH logins and has weak password policies. Which THREE actions should the administrator take to improve security? (Choose three.)
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
✓
Configure pam_faillock.so to lock accounts after failed attempts
Disabling password authentication, enforcing password complexity via pam_pwquality, and setting account lockout via pam_faillock are three strong measures. Changing SSH port is a minor hardening but not as effective as the other three. Enabling root login is bad.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Change SSH port to 2222
Why it's wrong here
Security through obscurity, not a strong measure.
- ✓
Configure pam_faillock.so to lock accounts after failed attempts
Why this is correct
Prevents brute force.
- ✓
Configure pam_pwquality.so to enforce password complexity
Why this is correct
Enforces strong passwords.
- ✓
Set PasswordAuthentication no in sshd_config
Why this is correct
Forces key-based authentication.
- ✗
Set PermitRootLogin yes
Why it's wrong here
Reduces security.
Go deeper
Related to this question
Learn chapter
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
SSH
SSH (Secure Shell) is a cryptographic network protocol that provides secure, encrypted communication and remote administration between two devices over an unsecured network.
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JA
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.