Match each control type to the most fitting example in a branch office.
Drag a concept onto its matching description — or click a concept then click the description.
Secure boot refuses to start untrusted boot code.
A log review process shows when an administrator changed a firewall rule.
A damaged endpoint is restored from a known-good image.
A camera above the server rack makes misuse less likely.
A written standard tells staff how to handle removable media.
A restricted jump box is used until direct admin access is approved again.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
Preventive: Requiring keycard access to the server room
Preventive controls block incidents; detective controls identify them; corrective controls restore operations; deterrent controls discourage attacks; compensating controls provide alternative protection; physical controls secure physical access.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
Preventive: Requiring keycard access to the server room
Why this is correct
Keycard access to the server room functions as a preventive control because it enforces an access policy at the physical perimeter before any interaction occurs. By requiring authentication and authorization before entry, it blocks unauthorized personnel from reaching sensitive equipment, thereby reducing the likelihood of a security incident. Preventive controls are proactive barriers that stop threats from materializing.
Detective: Installing motion sensors that trigger an alarm
Why this is correct
Motion sensors paired with an alarm serve as a detective control because they identify an intrusion after the protected area is breached. When unusual movement is detected, the sensor generates an alert that allows security personnel to investigate and respond. Unlike preventive controls that stop access, detective controls provide visibility into events that have already begun.
Corrective: Using an automatic fire suppression system
Why this is correct
An automatic fire suppression system is a corrective control because it engages after a fire is detected to extinguish flames and minimize damage. It actively remediates the uncontrolled condition, restoring the environment to a safe state. Corrective controls are reactive measures that contain and recover from incidents rather than preventing them from occurring.
Deterrent: Placing visible security cameras in the lobby
Why this is correct
Visible security cameras in the lobby act as a deterrent control because their presence increases the perceived likelihood of being observed and caught. This psychological effect discourages individuals from engaging in misconduct before any wrongdoing occurs. Deterrent controls are designed to influence behavior and reduce the attractiveness of committing an attack.
Detective: Requiring keycard access to the server room
Why it's wrong here
Categorizing keycard access as detective is incorrect because the control operates at the door to deny entry, not to reveal unauthorized activity after the fact. Detective controls, such as reviewing access logs or surveillance footage, are used to uncover incidents that have already taken place. Keycards physically stop people from entering, which is an inherently preventive function.
Corrective: Placing visible security cameras in the lobby
Why it's wrong here
Labeling visible security cameras as corrective is inaccurate because cameras do not take action to restore security once an incident occurs. Corrective controls, such as revoking compromised credentials or applying patches, actively respond to an event to mitigate its impact. Visible cameras instead work prior to an incident by discouraging malicious behavior, which classifies them as deterrent.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This SY0-701 practice question is part of Courseiva's free CompTIA certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the SY0-701 exam.