Match each network security concept to its purpose.
Drag a concept onto its matching description — or click a concept then click the description.
Filters traffic based on rules
Segments public-facing servers
Maps private to public IPs
Encrypts data over public networks
Monitors for suspicious activity
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
Firewall: Filters network traffic based on a set of security rules.
The correct matches are: Firewall filters traffic, IDS monitors and alerts, IPS blocks threats, VPN encrypts connections. Common confusions include swapping firewall and IPS functions, or confusing IDS with firewall capabilities.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
Firewall: Filters network traffic based on a set of security rules.
Why this is correct
Correct: A firewall is a security device that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules.
IDS: Monitors network traffic for suspicious activity and alerts administrators.
Why this is correct
Correct: An Intrusion Detection System (IDS) passively monitors traffic and generates alerts when suspicious patterns are detected.
IPS: Detects and prevents suspicious activity by blocking traffic.
Why this is correct
Correct: An Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) actively monitors and blocks suspicious traffic in real time.
VPN: Establishes an encrypted connection over a public network.
Why this is correct
Correct: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates a secure, encrypted tunnel between a device and a network over the internet.
Firewall: Detects and blocks suspicious activity.
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect: This describes an Intrusion Prevention System (IPS), not a firewall. Firewalls filter traffic based on rules, not primarily detect and block suspicious activity.
IDS: Filters traffic based on rules.
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect: This describes a firewall, not an IDS. An IDS monitors and alerts, it does not filter traffic.
Go deeper
Learn chapter
Introduction to Security Principles
Key term
IPS
An Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) is a network security device that monitors traffic in real time and automatically blocks threats before they reach your systems.
Key term
Internet Protocol Security
Internet Protocol Security (IPsec) is a suite of protocols that encrypts and authenticates data packets sent over IP networks to ensure private and secure communication.
About these practice questions
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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.