hardMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
ISC2 CC Practice Question: A security professional is evaluating a system…
A security professional is evaluating a system that uses a trust model where every component authenticates to each other before communicating. Which security principle does this model exemplify?
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
✓
Defense in depth
Defense in depth is the security principle of using multiple layers of defense to protect assets. In this scenario, requiring every component to authenticate to each other before communication adds a layer of verification, which is consistent with the defense in depth approach. Option A (Least privilege) is incorrect because it focuses on granting only necessary permissions, not on mutual authentication. Option B (Separation of duties) is incorrect as it involves splitting tasks among multiple people to prevent fraud, not authentication requirements. Option C (Non-repudiation) is incorrect because it ensures that an action cannot be denied, typically through logs or signatures, not mutual authentication.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Least privilege
Why it's wrong here
Least privilege limits access, not authentication.
- ✗
Separation of duties
Why it's wrong here
Separation of duties divides responsibilities.
- ✗
Non-repudiation
Why it's wrong here
Non-repudiation prevents denial.
- ✓
Defense in depth
Why this is correct
Mutual authentication adds a layer of security, exemplifying defense in depth.
Go deeper
Related to this question
Learn chapter
Introduction to Security Principles
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.
Key term
Non-repudiation
Non-repudiation is a security principle that ensures a party in a digital transaction cannot deny their involvement or the authenticity of their digital signature.
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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.