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CISM Practice Question: Which TWO of the following are essential…
Which TWO of the following are essential components of an effective information security governance framework? (Select exactly two.)
⚠ Common exam trap
Many exam-takers confuse operational security tools (SIEM, patch management, IPS) with governance components, which are about strategy, roles, and oversight, not specific technologies.
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
✓
Process for aligning security strategy with business strategy
An effective information security governance framework must include a process for aligning security strategy with business strategy. This ensures that security initiatives support organizational objectives, risk tolerance, and regulatory requirements, rather than operating in isolation. Without this alignment, security investments may conflict with business goals, leading to inefficiencies or reduced adoption.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Implementation of a SIEM system
Why it's wrong here
Technical tool, not governance.
- ✗
Automated patch management system
Why it's wrong here
Operational control, not governance.
- ✓
Process for aligning security strategy with business strategy
Why this is correct
Ensures security supports business.
- ✗
Intrusion prevention system (IPS)
Why it's wrong here
Technical control, not governance.
- ✓
Defined roles and responsibilities for security decisions
Why this is correct
Establishes accountability.
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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.