Quick Answer
The correct answer is to examine HTTP request parameters for SQL commands because SQL injection attacks typically exploit web application input fields by embedding malicious SQL statements into HTTP request parameters like query strings or form data. An intrusion detection system (IDS) configured to inspect these parameters can identify suspicious patterns, such as the presence of SQL keywords like SELECT, UNION, or DROP, which indicate an injection attempt. On the ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity CC exam, this question tests your understanding of how an IDS applies signature-based detection to application-layer threats, distinguishing it from network-layer anomaly detection. A common trap is confusing this with monitoring database logs or network traffic—those are reactive or indirect, whereas parameter inspection catches the attack at the point of entry. Memory tip: think of the IDS as a bouncer checking IDs at the door—it looks at the request parameters, not the party inside the database.
This CC practice question tests your understanding of security operations. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
A security analyst is configuring an intrusion detection system (IDS) to detect SQL injection attacks. Which method is most effective?
Analyze DNS query patterns
Why wrong: DNS analysis may detect other attacks but not SQL injection.
Detect port scans from external IPs
Why wrong: Port scans are not directly indicative of SQL injection.
Examine HTTP request parameters for SQL commands
This directly identifies SQL injection payloads in web requests.
Monitor bandwidth usage for spikes
Why wrong: Bandwidth spikes are not specific to SQL injection.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
Examine HTTP request parameters for SQL commands
Option D is correct because examining HTTP request parameters for SQL commands directly detects SQL injection attempts. The other options are unrelated or less effective.
Key principle: NAT direction and interface roles matter as much as the IP address mapping. Inside/outside designation controls which traffic is translated.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
Analyze DNS query patterns
Why it's wrong here
DNS analysis may detect other attacks but not SQL injection.
Detect port scans from external IPs
Why it's wrong here
Port scans are not directly indicative of SQL injection.
Examine HTTP request parameters for SQL commands
Why this is correct
This directly identifies SQL injection payloads in web requests.
Related concept
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
Monitor bandwidth usage for spikes
Why it's wrong here
Bandwidth spikes are not specific to SQL injection.
Common exam traps
NAT is not only about the public address. The inside/outside interface roles and the ACL or rule that matches traffic are just as important.
Detailed technical explanation
NAT questions usually test address translation, overload/PAT behaviour, static mappings and whether the right traffic is being translated. Read the interface direction and address terms carefully.
Key takeaway
NAT direction and interface roles matter as much as the IP address mapping. Inside/outside designation controls which traffic is translated.
Real-world example
A security team runs a vulnerability scan on a web application and discovers an unpatched SQL injection flaw. The team prioritises remediation by CVSS score — critical flaws are patched within 24 hours, high within 7 days. Questions like this test whether you understand vulnerability management processes, scanning tools, and remediation prioritisation.
What to study next
Review the four NAT address types (inside local, inside global, outside local, outside global), PAT port overload, and static vs dynamic NAT use cases. Then practise related CC NAT questions on configuration and troubleshooting.
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FAQ
Security Operations — This question tests Security Operations — Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address..
The correct answer is: Examine HTTP request parameters for SQL commands — Option D is correct because examining HTTP request parameters for SQL commands directly detects SQL injection attempts. The other options are unrelated or less effective.
Review the four NAT address types (inside local, inside global, outside local, outside global), PAT port overload, and static vs dynamic NAT use cases. Then practise related CC NAT questions on configuration and troubleshooting.
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
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Last reviewed: Jun 24, 2026
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.
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