The answer is to run a version detection scan using Nmap’s `-sV` flag on port 3306. This is correct because after discovering an open MySQL service, the penetration tester must identify the exact software version to map it against known vulnerabilities and CVEs, which is the logical next step in the reconnaissance phase. On the CompTIA PenTest+ PT0-002 exam, this scenario tests your understanding of the penetration testing methodology: discovery precedes enumeration, and version detection is a core enumeration technique that directly informs exploitation planning. A common trap is to jump straight to brute-forcing credentials or running default scripts, but without version information, you cannot tailor your attack or assess misconfigurations. The search intent for "MySQL service version detection next step" is precisely this—moving from port discovery to service fingerprinting. Memory tip: think "SV for Service Version"—the `-sV` flag is your go-to after any open port is found.
PT0-002 Practice Question: Information Gathering and Vulnerability Scanning
This PT0-002 practice question tests your understanding of information gathering and vulnerability scanning. The scenario asks you to isolate a root cause — eliminate options that address a different problem before choosing. 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.
Exhibit
Refer to the exhibit.
Nmap scan report for 192.168.1.10
Host is up (0.0012s latency).
PORT STATE SERVICE
22/tcp open ssh
80/tcp open http
443/tcp open https
3306/tcp open mysql
MAC Address: 00:1A:2B:3C:4D:5E (Intel)
Device type: general purpose
Running: Linux 2.6.X
OS CPE: cpe:/o:linux:linux_kernel:2.6
OS details: Linux 2.6.18 - 2.6.22
Refer to the exhibit. A penetration tester has performed a basic Nmap scan and found an open MySQL service. Which of the following should the tester do NEXT to further investigate the MySQL service?
Refer to the exhibit.
Nmap scan report for 192.168.1.10
Host is up (0.0012s latency).
PORT STATE SERVICE
22/tcp open ssh
80/tcp open http
443/tcp open https
3306/tcp open mysql
MAC Address: 00:1A:2B:3C:4D:5E (Intel)
Device type: general purpose
Running: Linux 2.6.X
OS CPE: cpe:/o:linux:linux_kernel:2.6
OS details: Linux 2.6.18 - 2.6.22
A
Perform a UDP scan on port 3306
Why wrong: MySQL uses TCP, not UDP.
B
Connect to the MySQL service using default credentials
Why wrong: Attempting to log in without authorization may be outside scope.
C
Run a version detection scan using -sV on port 3306
Version detection reveals the MySQL version, aiding vulnerability assessment.
D
Scan for other hosts with port 3306 open
Why wrong: While possible, the immediate focus should be on this host's MySQL service.
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Run a version detection scan using -sV on port 3306
Option C is correct because the next logical step after discovering an open MySQL service (port 3306) is to perform version detection using `-sV` in Nmap. This identifies the exact MySQL version, which is critical for determining known vulnerabilities (CVEs) and appropriate exploitation techniques. Without version information, the tester cannot assess whether the service is outdated or misconfigured.
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.
Connect to the MySQL service using default credentials
Why it's wrong here
Attempting to log in without authorization may be outside scope.
✓
Run a version detection scan using -sV on port 3306
Why this is correct
Version detection reveals the MySQL version, aiding vulnerability assessment.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
✗
Scan for other hosts with port 3306 open
Why it's wrong here
While possible, the immediate focus should be on this host's MySQL service.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
The trap here is that candidates may think default credential testing (Option B) is the immediate next step, but the PT0-002 exam emphasizes systematic information gathering—version detection must precede exploitation attempts to avoid unnecessary noise or failed attacks.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
Nmap's `-sV` flag performs service and version detection by sending probes to the open port and analyzing the response against a signature database. For MySQL, this can reveal the exact version string (e.g., 5.7.35 or 8.0.27), which maps to specific vulnerabilities like CVE-2022-21367 or authentication bypass flaws. In a real-world engagement, knowing the version allows the tester to tailor exploits (e.g., using Metasploit modules) or identify if the service is patched.
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.
TExam Day Tips
→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 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.
Related glossary terms
Concepts from this question explained
These glossary pages explain the core terms tested in this PT0-002 question in full detail.
Information Gathering and Vulnerability Scanning — This question tests Information Gathering and Vulnerability Scanning — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Run a version detection scan using -sV on port 3306 — Option C is correct because the next logical step after discovering an open MySQL service (port 3306) is to perform version detection using `-sV` in Nmap. This identifies the exact MySQL version, which is critical for determining known vulnerabilities (CVEs) and appropriate exploitation techniques. Without version information, the tester cannot assess whether the service is outdated or misconfigured.
What should I do if I get this PT0-002 question wrong?
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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