Question 1mediummultiple choice
Full question →mediummultiple choiceObjective-mapped
An organization is retiring a batch of laptops with SSDs. All of the systems used full-disk encryption and stored sensitive internal documents. What is the best action before the devices leave the company?
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
Run a quick format and remove the asset tags after the files are deleted.
A quick format does not reliably prevent recovery of data from SSDs, and removing asset tags does not sanitize the storage media. This leaves risk behind.
B
Best answer
Perform a cryptographic erase by destroying the encryption keys and document the sanitization process.
For encrypted SSDs, destroying the encryption keys is an effective and practical sanitization method because the data becomes unreadable even if the drive is later examined. This approach matches the media type and the fact that full-disk encryption was used. Proper documentation also supports accountability and compliance. It is stronger than merely deleting files or performing a superficial format, which may leave recoverable data behind.
C
Distractor review
Degauss the SSDs and then store them in the disposal room until pickup.
Degaussing is effective for some magnetic media, but it is not a reliable sanitization method for SSDs. It also does not replace proper disposal documentation.
D
Distractor review
Overwrite the drives once with random data and consider the devices ready for resale.
A single overwrite is not the preferred sanitization method for SSDs, where wear leveling can complicate erasure. It also ignores the need for documented disposal controls.
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: Perform a cryptographic erase by destroying the encryption keys and document the sanitization process. — Because the laptops used full-disk encryption, the most effective sanitization method is to cryptographically erase them by destroying the encryption keys. That renders the stored data inaccessible without needing to rely on imperfect overwrite methods that may not work well on SSDs. Documenting the sanitization process is also important for chain of custody, accountability, and compliance. This is the best balance of security and operational practicality for encrypted media disposal. Why others are wrong: A quick format does not guarantee that data is unrecoverable. Degaussing is not a dependable sanitization method for SSDs. A single overwrite is not ideal for solid-state media and does not provide the same assurance as cryptographic erasure when encryption was already in use.
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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