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ISC2 CC Practice Question: A security administrator needs to ensure that…
A security administrator needs to ensure that only authorized personnel can access the server room. Which physical control is most appropriate?
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
✓
Biometric access control system
A biometric access control system uses unique biological traits for authentication, providing strong physical security. Option A (Mantrap) is used for high-security areas but is more complex and expensive. Option B (Keypad lock) is less secure because codes can be shared. Option D (Video surveillance) is detective, not preventive. Biometric access (Option C) is the best fit for this requirement.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
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Mantrap with card reader
Why it's wrong here
A mantrap with card reader controls passage through two interlocking doors, but it does not enforce authorisation based on personnel identity—it only validates card possession. This fails the requirement to ensure only authorised personnel access the server room, as a lost or cloned card grants entry. It is tempting because mantrap systems are correctly used for high-security zones requiring controlled, sequential access, such as data centres where tailgating prevention is the primary threat.
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Keypad lock with a shared code
Why it's wrong here
A keypad lock with a shared code is less secure because codes can be easily shared or compromised, reducing accountability.
- ✓
Biometric access control system
Why this is correct
A biometric access control system uses unique biological traits (e.g., fingerprints) for authentication, providing strong security and accountability.
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Video surveillance cameras
Why it's wrong here
Video surveillance cameras are a detective control, not a preventive control; they can record access but do not prevent unauthorized entry.
Go deeper
Related to this question
Learn chapter
Introduction to Security Principles
Key term
Access control
Access control is the security practice of determining who or what is allowed to view, use, or enter a resource, and under what conditions.
Key term
Least privilege
Least privilege is a security principle that means giving users, systems, or programs only the minimum permissions they need to do their job and nothing more.
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JA
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.