Question 1hardmultiple choice
Full question →hardmultiple choiceObjective-mapped
Exhibit
backup.sh excerpt: ``` openssl enc -aes-256-cbc -in finance.tar -out finance.tar.enc -kfile /opt/backup/finance.key chmod 600 /opt/backup/finance.key # same key file copied to all backup servers ``` Backup administrator note: - All sites use the same encryption key so restores are simple. - The key file is stored on the local backup server.
Based on the exhibit, what is the best improvement to reduce the impact if one backup server is compromised?
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
Keep the same key file but rename it so attackers cannot find it easily.
Renaming a key file does not protect the secret. If the server is compromised, the attacker can still inspect processes, files, and permissions to locate and use it.
B
Distractor review
Replace AES with SHA-256 so the backups are harder to read.
SHA-256 is a hash function, not a file encryption method. It cannot be used to decrypt and restore backup data, so it does not solve the problem.
C
Best answer
Store encryption keys in a centralized KMS or HSM and use distinct keys with rotation.
This is the best improvement because the current design places the same key on every backup server, creating a large blast radius if one host is compromised. Centralized key management through a KMS or HSM improves control, auditing, rotation, and separation of duties. Distinct keys also limit how much data exposure results from one server compromise.
D
Distractor review
Email the key file to backup operators so they can restore data quickly.
Emailing a key file creates additional copies in an insecure channel and expands exposure. It also weakens confidentiality and makes auditing key access much harder.
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: Store encryption keys in a centralized KMS or HSM and use distinct keys with rotation. — The exhibit reveals two cryptographic weaknesses: the same key is reused across servers, and the key is stored locally beside the protected backups. If one server is compromised, the attacker likely gets access to every encrypted backup that uses that key. Centralizing key control in a KMS or HSM and using unique keys with rotation reduces exposure, strengthens auditing, and limits the damage from a single system compromise. Why others are wrong: Renaming a key file only hides it cosmetically and does not prevent theft. SHA-256 is a hash, not an encryption method, so it cannot protect restore data in this use case. Emailing the key creates more copies in transit and increases the chance of interception or accidental disclosure.
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.
Discussion
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