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Systems Security Engineering FoundationsmediumMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped

ISC Systems Security Engineering Foundations Practice Question

In the context of the 'Common Criteria', what is the role of the 'Security Target'?

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 serves as the contract between the vendor and the evaluator

The Security Target (ST) defines the security requirements and claims for a specific IT product, which are then evaluated against a Protection Profile.

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 a threat model

    Why it's wrong here

    They are complementary.

  • It is a marketing document for end users

    Why it's wrong here

    It is a technical document for evaluators.

  • It defines the operating system kernel

    Why it's wrong here

    This is not the purpose of an ST.

  • It serves as the contract between the vendor and the evaluator

    Why this is correct

    The ST documents what the product claims to do security-wise.

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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 (ISC)² exam blueprint

This ISC practice question is part of Courseiva's free (ISC)² 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 ISC exam.