The answer is regsvr32.exe and InstallUtil, as both are trusted Microsoft-signed binaries that can execute arbitrary code while bypassing AppLocker’s default allow rules. Regsvr32 works by loading and registering a DLL, which can trigger code execution through the DllRegisterServer entry point, while InstallUtil leverages the .NET framework’s installer tool to run malicious assemblies. On the CompTIA PenTest+ PT0-002 exam, this tests your understanding that AppLocker typically blocks scripts like PowerShell or Cscript but trusts signed executables, making “living-off-the-land” binaries a key bypass vector. A common trap is confusing PowerShell execution policy with AppLocker—they are separate controls. Remember the mnemonic “RIDE”: Regsvr32, InstallUtil, DllHost, and Explorer—all trusted binaries that can slip past AppLocker’s rules.
PT0-002 Attacks and Exploits Practice Question
This PT0-002 practice question tests your understanding of attacks and exploits. Match the stated requirement to the specific cloud service, access model, or configuration option — many options are valid in isolation but not for this scenario. 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.
Which TWO of the following are effective methods for bypassing AppLocker during a penetration test? (Choose two.)
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Use InstallUtil.exe to run a malicious .exe
Option A is correct because regsvr32 can be used to execute code via DLL registration. Option D is correct because InstallUtil is a trusted Microsoft executable that can run arbitrary code. Option B is wrong because PowerShell execution policy is separate from AppLocker. Option C is wrong because WMIC is not typically allowed by AppLocker. Option E is wrong because Cscript is often blocked, but using trusted binaries is the key.
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.
✗
Execute code via WMIC
Why it's wrong here
WMIC is often blocked or not allowed.
✓
Use InstallUtil.exe to run a malicious .exe
Why this is correct
InstallUtil is a trusted binary that can be used to execute code.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
✓
Run regsvr32.exe to execute a .dll
Why this is correct
regsvr32 is a trusted Microsoft binary that can bypass AppLocker.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
✗
Use PowerShell with Bypass execution policy
Why it's wrong here
PowerShell may still be blocked by AppLocker; execution policy is a separate control.
✗
Launch a script with cscript.exe
Why it's wrong here
cscript.exe is often blocked by AppLocker.
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 developer is choosing between AES-256 (symmetric) and RSA-2048 (asymmetric) for encrypting a large file that will be sent to a partner. Symmetric encryption is fast but requires key exchange; asymmetric is slower but solves the key distribution problem. A hybrid approach — encrypt the file with AES, encrypt the AES key with RSA — is standard. Questions like this test whether you understand when each approach applies.
Related glossary terms
Concepts from this question explained
These glossary pages explain the core terms tested in this PT0-002 question in full detail.
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.
Attacks and Exploits — This question tests Attacks and Exploits — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Use InstallUtil.exe to run a malicious .exe — Option A is correct because regsvr32 can be used to execute code via DLL registration. Option D is correct because InstallUtil is a trusted Microsoft executable that can run arbitrary code. Option B is wrong because PowerShell execution policy is separate from AppLocker. Option C is wrong because WMIC is not typically allowed by AppLocker. Option E is wrong because Cscript is often blocked, but using trusted binaries is the key.
What should I do if I get this PT0-002 question wrong?
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.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Question Discussion
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