ISC2 CC Access Controls Concepts Practice Question
An administrator configures a Group Policy Object (GPO) in Active Directory to enforce account lockout after 5 failed attempts within 15 minutes. Which type of control is this?
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
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Logical access control
Logical access controls are software-based mechanisms that govern access to systems. Account lockout policies are logical controls.
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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Administrative access control
Why it's wrong here
The lockout threshold is enforced by the domain controller's authentication settings, making it a technical control; administrative controls are documented policies and procedures. Administrative classification fits where management defines and communicates the lockout policy itself, independent of any configuration.
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Logical access control
Why this is correct
Account lockout is enforced through Group Policy settings processed by the domain controller, restricting access via software configuration rather than physical barriers. This makes it a logical access control, satisfying the scenario's requirement to limit system entry after repeated failed authentication attempts.
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Compensating control
Why it's wrong here
A compensating control substitutes for a primary control that cannot be implemented; account lockout is itself a primary preventive measure, not a substitute. Compensating classification fits where, for example, legacy software cannot enforce MFA and an alternative safeguard is applied instead.
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Physical access control
Why it's wrong here
Physical controls restrict contact with facilities and hardware, such as locks, badges and guards; a GPO setting operates entirely within the logical authentication layer. Physical classification fits where server-room access is limited to authorised staff, preventing direct console or media contact.
Go deeper
Related to this question
Learn chapter
Access Control Fundamentals
Key term
Group
A group is a collection of users, devices, or other objects that are assigned permissions and policies together for simplified management in identity and governance systems like Microsoft Entra ID.
Key term
Account lockout
Account lockout is a security feature that temporarily disables a user account after a set number of failed login attempts to prevent unauthorized access.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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