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ISC2 CC Practice Question: Is the best practice for managing cryptographic…
Which of the following is the best practice for managing cryptographic keys in a large organization?
⚠ Common exam trap
ISC2 often tests the misconception that convenience (e.g., embedding keys in code or using a single key) is acceptable for key management, when in fact security and compartmentalization are paramount in enterprise environments.
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
✓
Store keys in a centralized hardware security module (HSM) with strict access controls.
A centralized Hardware Security Module (HSM) provides tamper-resistant, dedicated hardware for secure key generation, storage, and cryptographic operations. Strict access controls (e.g., role-based access, multi-factor authentication) ensure that only authorized personnel can manage keys, while the HSM prevents key extraction even if the host system is compromised. This aligns with NIST SP 800-57 guidelines for key management in large organizations.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Embed keys in application code to ensure availability.
Why it's wrong here
Keys in code can be easily extracted if code is accessed.
- ✗
Distribute keys to administrators via email for convenience.
Why it's wrong here
Email is insecure and can be intercepted.
- ✗
Use a single key for all encryption to simplify management.
Why it's wrong here
Single key compromise compromises all data.
- ✓
Store keys in a centralized hardware security module (HSM) with strict access controls.
Why this is correct
HSM provides tamper-resistant key storage and management.
Quick reference
Access Control Model Comparison
| Model | Acronym | Who Controls Access? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Discretionary Access Control | DAC | Resource owner | Small teams, file shares |
| Mandatory Access Control | MAC | System / security labels | Classified govt / military |
| Role-Based Access Control | RBAC | Administrator (via roles) | Enterprise environments |
| Attribute-Based Access Control | ABAC | Policy engine (user + resource attributes) | Fine-grained, dynamic policies |
| Rule-Based Access Control | RuBAC | System rules / ACLs | Firewall rules, network ACLs |
Go deeper
Related to this question
Learn chapter
Introduction to Security Principles
Key term
Hardware security module
A specialized hardware appliance that securely generates, stores, and manages cryptographic keys in a tamper-resistant environment for enterprise security systems.
Key term
Time-based One-time Password
A temporary, automatically generated code that changes every few seconds and is used as an extra layer of security when logging into an account.
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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.