NetSec-Architect Specialized Security Domains Practice Question
An OT security architect is segmenting an industrial plant network using Palo Alto Networks firewalls and App-ID. Which TWO benefits does App-ID provide in an OT environment compared to traditional port-based firewalls? (Choose two)
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
It allows control over specific application functions (such as allowing Modbus read commands while blocking write commands).
App-ID identifies industrial protocols regardless of port numbers and allows granular control of specific commands within those protocols (e.g., read vs. write in Modbus).
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
It replaces the need for industrial network firewalls by running directly on PLC processors.
Why it's wrong here
App-ID runs on PAN-OS firewalls, not on industrial PLCs.
- ✗
It automatically patches vulnerable PLC firmware over the network interface.
Why it's wrong here
App-ID inspects traffic; it does not flash or patch device firmware.
- ✓
It allows control over specific application functions (such as allowing Modbus read commands while blocking write commands).
Why this is correct
Application sub-features / command filtering allow precise control over industrial actions.
- ✓
It identifies industrial protocols (like Modbus, DNP3, IEC 60870-5-104) regardless of custom port numbers.
Why this is correct
App-ID inspects packet payload signatures, meaning it recognizes protocols even on non-standard ports.
- ✗
It encrypts all cleartext industrial Modbus traffic without requiring keys.
Why it's wrong here
App-ID does not encrypt cleartext traffic; SSL/TLS decryption or IPsec VPNs handle encryption.
About these practice questions
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JA
Written and reviewed by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
Last reviewed August 2026 · checked against the official Palo Alto Networks exam blueprint
This NetSec-Architect practice question is part of Courseiva's free Palo Alto Networks 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 NetSec-Architect exam.