Question 1mediummultiple choice
Full question →mediummultiple choiceObjective-mapped
A security engineer writes a script that computes SHA-256 hashes of critical server configuration files every night and sends an alert if any hash value has changed since the previous night. Which security goal is this control primarily designed to protect?
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.
A
Distractor review
Confidentiality
Confidentiality is concerned with preventing unauthorized disclosure of information. Hashing does not protect data from being read; it only verifies that the data has not been modified. Therefore, this option is incorrect.
B
Best answer
Integrity
Integrity ensures that data has not been tampered with or altered by unauthorized parties. Comparing hashes allows the engineer to detect any unauthorized changes to the configuration files, directly supporting the integrity goal. This is the correct answer.
C
Distractor review
Availability
Availability ensures that systems and data are accessible when needed. Hashing does not affect system uptime or accessibility, so it does not directly protect availability. This option is incorrect.
D
Distractor review
Authentication
Authentication verifies the identity of a user or system. Hashing configuration files does not confirm the identity of the entity making changes; it only indicates that a change occurred. Thus, this option is incorrect.
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
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Question 3
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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
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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: Integrity — The use of cryptographic hashes to detect changes in files is a mechanism for enforcing data integrity. Integrity ensures that data has not been altered by unauthorized entities. In this scenario, the script ensures that any modification to the configuration files is promptly detected, preserving the trustworthiness of the data.
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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