A manager wants files on a stolen laptop to remain unreadable even if the drive is removed and connected to another computer. Which control should be implemented?
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Good practice is not just finding the correct option. The wrong answers often show the exact trap the exam wants you to fall into.
Distractor review
File compression
Compression reduces file size, but it does not protect data from unauthorized reading.
Best answer
Full-disk encryption
Full-disk encryption protects data stored on the laptop by making the contents unreadable without the proper key or passphrase. If the drive is removed and attached to another computer, the data still remains protected because it is encrypted at rest. This is a common and effective control for portable devices that may be lost or stolen.
Distractor review
Packet filtering
Packet filtering protects network traffic, but it does not protect data stored on a local drive.
Distractor review
Digital signing
Digital signing helps verify integrity and origin, but it does not hide the file contents.
Common exam trap
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.
Technical deep dive
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.
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More questions from this exam
Keep practising from the same exam bank, or move into a focused topic page if this question exposed a weak area.
Question 1
A laptop is suspected of being used in a malware incident. It is still powered on and connected to Wi-Fi. What should the responder do before shutting it down?
Question 2
An employee reports a ransomware note on a file server. The server is still powered on, shares are still being accessed, and management wants service restored as quickly as possible. What should the incident response team do first?
Question 3
An employee reports a ransomware note on a finance laptop. The laptop is still powered on, connected to Wi-Fi, and the user says they were just working in a spreadsheet. Management wants the fastest safe response that also preserves evidence. What should the responder do first?
Question 4
You are handed a company laptop suspected in an insider theft case. Legal says the evidence may be needed in court. Which action best preserves admissibility?
Question 5
A developer wants to reduce the risk of SQL injection in a new customer search form. Which two changes are the best mitigations? Select two.
Question 6
A branch office uses a flat LAN, and a compromise on one user workstation could spread quickly to finance systems. Management wants finance workstations isolated from general users, but finance staff still need access to a central finance application and network printer. What is the best design change?
FAQ
Questions learners often ask
What does this SY0-701 question test?
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Full-disk encryption — Full-disk encryption is the best choice because it protects the entire storage device, including the operating system, user files, and cached data. If someone steals the laptop or removes the drive, the information remains unreadable without the encryption key. This is especially important for mobile devices that are frequently transported, since physical theft is a realistic risk. It addresses confidentiality directly at rest. Why others are wrong: Compression only changes file size and offers no security. Packet filtering is a network control, so it cannot protect data sitting on a disk. Digital signing proves the file came from a trusted source and was not altered, but it does not keep anyone from reading it. The scenario is specifically about stolen storage, which makes encryption the correct control.
What should I do if I get this SY0-701 question wrong?
Then try more questions from the same exam bank and focus on understanding why the wrong options are tempting.
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