Quick Answer
The answer is -T0. This Nmap option sets the timing template to Paranoid mode, which introduces a delay of at least five minutes between probe packets, making the scan extremely slow and effectively evading intrusion detection systems that rely on detecting rapid, noisy traffic patterns. On the CompTIA PenTest+ PT0-002 exam, this question tests your understanding of Nmap timing templates and their role in stealth scanning versus detection avoidance. A common trap is confusing -T0 with -T1 (Sneaky) or mistaking it for OS detection (-O) or version detection (-sV), which serve entirely different purposes. Remember that the lower the timing number, the slower and stealthier the scan, with -T0 being the absolute slowest. A useful memory tip: think of "T0" as "Time Out" — you are taking a long timeout between probes to stay under the radar.
This PT0-002 practice question tests your understanding of tools and code analysis. 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 penetration tester wants to perform a slow and stealthy port scan to avoid intrusion detection systems. Which Nmap option should be used?
-O
Why wrong: -O is for OS fingerprinting, not timing.
-A
Why wrong: -A combines aggressive options, not stealth.
-T0
Timing template 0 (Paranoid) is the slowest and most stealthy.
-sV
Why wrong: -sV enables version detection, not timing.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
-T0
The -T0 option sets the timing template to Paranoid, which is extremely slow and avoids IDS detection. -O is for OS detection, -sV for version detection, and -A for aggressive scan.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
-O
Why it's wrong here
-O is for OS fingerprinting, not timing.
-A
Why it's wrong here
-A combines aggressive options, not stealth.
-T0
Why this is correct
Timing template 0 (Paranoid) is the slowest and most stealthy.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
-sV
Why it's wrong here
-sV enables version detection, not timing.
Common exam traps
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
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.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A security team runs a vulnerability scan on a web application and discovers an unpatched SQL injection flaw. The team prioritises remediation by CVSS score — critical flaws are patched within 24 hours, high within 7 days. Questions like this test whether you understand vulnerability management processes, scanning tools, and remediation prioritisation.
What to study next
Identify which PT0-002 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.
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FAQ
Tools and Code Analysis — This question tests Tools and Code Analysis — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: -T0 — The -T0 option sets the timing template to Paranoid, which is extremely slow and avoids IDS detection. -O is for OS detection, -sV for version detection, and -A for aggressive scan.
Identify which PT0-002 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.
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Last reviewed: Jun 23, 2026
This PT0-002 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 PT0-002 exam.
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