CISM Information Security Programme Practice Question
When implementing security controls, which approach ensures that multiple layers of defense are applied so that if one control fails, others compensate?
⚠ Common exam trap
A common mix-up: candidates confuse 'compensating controls' (which are alternative controls for a specific requirement or deficiency) with the broader 'defense-in-depth' strategy. In the CISM context, defense-in-depth is the layered approach that uses multiple controls to provide redundancy, so that if one fails, others still provide protection. Compensating controls are a subset used when primary controls cannot be implemented, not the overall layered strategy.
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
✓
Defense-in-depth
Defense-in-depth (option D) is the correct approach because it implements multiple, overlapping layers of security controls (e.g., firewalls, IDS/IPS, endpoint protection, access controls) so that if one layer fails or is bypassed, subsequent layers continue to provide protection. This layered strategy reduces the likelihood of a single point of failure compromising the entire security posture, aligning with the CISM principle of risk mitigation through redundancy.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Business-enabling controls
Why it's wrong here
These controls support business objectives, not necessarily provide layered defense.
- ✗
Critical controls first
Why it's wrong here
This is a prioritization strategy, not a layering approach.
- ✗
Compensating controls
Why it's wrong here
Compensating controls are alternatives when primary controls are not feasible, not necessarily layered.
- ✓
Defense-in-depth
Why this is correct
Defense-in-depth uses multiple layers of defense to protect assets.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This CISM practice question is part of Courseiva's free ISACA 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 CISM exam.