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ISC2 CC Practice Question: A security administrator is reviewing the…
A security administrator is reviewing the principles of access control. Which TWO of the following are core components of the AAA framework? (Select TWO.)
⚠ Common exam trap
ISC2 often tests that candidates confuse 'Identification' with 'Authentication' or think 'Auditing' is a core AAA component instead of 'Accounting', leading them to select B or E incorrectly.
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
✓
Authorization
The AAA framework consists of Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting. Authentication verifies the identity of a user or device (e.g., via RADIUS or TACACS+). Authorization determines what resources or actions the authenticated entity is permitted to access (e.g., via privilege levels or ACLs). Accounting tracks and logs user activities for auditing and billing purposes. Therefore, Authorization (A) and Authentication (D) are two of the three core components of AAA.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Authorization
Why this is correct
Authorization determines access rights; it is a core AAA component.
- ✗
Identification
Why it's wrong here
Identification is a step before authentication, not a separate AAA component.
- ✗
Non-repudiation
Why it's wrong here
Non-repudiation is a security objective, not part of AAA.
- ✓
Authentication
Why this is correct
Authentication verifies identity; it is a core AAA component.
- ✗
Auditing
Why it's wrong here
Auditing is part of accounting but not a separate AAA component.
Quick reference
AAA Protocol Comparison
| Protocol | Port(s) | Encryption | Transport | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RADIUS | 1812 / 1813 | Password only | UDP | Network access control |
| TACACS+ | 49 | Full packet | TCP | Device administration |
| Diameter | 3868 | Full session | TCP / SCTP | Carrier / mobile networks |
| 802.1X | — | EAP-based | Layer 2 | Port-based access control |
TACACS+ encrypts the entire packet; RADIUS only encrypts the password field — a key exam distinction.
Go deeper
Related to this question
Learn chapter
Introduction to Security Principles
Key term
RADIUS
RADIUS is a network protocol that provides centralized authentication, authorization, and accounting management for users who connect and use a network service.
Key term
Authorization
Authorization determines what an authenticated user is allowed to do within a system, such as accessing files, running programs, or changing settings.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This CC practice question is part of Courseiva's free ISC2 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 CC exam.