The answer is VLANs and subnetting. Both are fundamental network segmentation technologies, but they operate at different layers of the OSI model: VLANs create separate broadcast domains at Layer 2 by logically grouping ports on a switch, while subnetting divides a larger network into smaller, logical subnetworks at Layer 3 by manipulating the subnet mask using techniques like VLSM or CIDR. On the ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity CC exam, this question tests your understanding of how segmentation improves security by isolating traffic and enforcing distinct policies between segments. A common trap is confusing segmentation with isolation tools like firewalls or ACLs—remember that segmentation is about dividing the network itself, not just filtering traffic. For a quick memory tip: think of VLANs as "virtual walls" between rooms on the same floor (Layer 2), and subnetting as "separate floors" in a building (Layer 3).
ISC2 CC Network Security Practice Question
This CC practice question tests your understanding of network security. Match the stated requirement to the specific cloud service, access model, or configuration option — many options are valid in isolation but not for this scenario. 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 administrator is reviewing network security controls. Which TWO of the following are examples of network segmentation technologies? (Select TWO)
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Subnetting
Subnetting divides a larger network into smaller, logical subnetworks by manipulating the subnet mask (e.g., using VLSM or CIDR). This creates separate broadcast domains at Layer 3, allowing administrators to isolate traffic and apply distinct security policies between subnets, which is a core function of network segmentation.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
✗
Proxy servers
Why it's wrong here
Proxy servers mediate traffic but are not segmentation technology.
✗
Honeypots
Why it's wrong here
Honeypots are decoy systems, not segmentation technology.
✓
Subnetting
Why this is correct
Subnetting divides a network into smaller IP subnetworks, providing Layer 3 segmentation.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
✓
VLANs
Why this is correct
VLANs create separate broadcast domains, segmenting the network at Layer 2.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
✗
Firewalls
Why it's wrong here
Firewalls filter traffic but do not segment the network; they control access between segments.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
ISC2 often tests the distinction between technologies that create segmentation (subnetting, VLANs) and technologies that enforce security policies between segments (firewalls, ACLs), leading candidates to mistakenly select firewalls as a segmentation technology.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
Subnetting uses the subnet mask (e.g., 255.255.255.0) to define the network and host portions of an IP address, enabling routers to forward traffic between subnets based on the network ID. In real-world scenarios, subnetting is essential for reducing broadcast traffic and improving security by isolating sensitive systems (e.g., finance servers) into their own subnet, with ACLs on the router controlling inter-subnet access.
KKey Concepts to Remember
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Find the constraint that changes the correct option.
Eliminate answers that are true in general but not in this case.
TExam Day Tips
→Watch for words such as best, first, most likely and least administrative effort.
→Review why wrong options are wrong, not only why the correct option is correct.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A security analyst at a medium-sized enterprise encounters this scenario during an investigation or architecture review. The correct answer reflects best practice for the specific threat or control described. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Security exam questions test whether you can match controls to threats in context — not just recall definitions.
Related glossary terms
Concepts from this question explained
These glossary pages explain the core terms tested in this CC question in full detail.
Network Security — This question tests Network Security — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Subnetting — Subnetting divides a larger network into smaller, logical subnetworks by manipulating the subnet mask (e.g., using VLSM or CIDR). This creates separate broadcast domains at Layer 3, allowing administrators to isolate traffic and apply distinct security policies between subnets, which is a core function of network segmentation.
What should I do if I get this CC question wrong?
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Question Discussion
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