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CCSP Practice Question: A cloud security architect is designing a key…
A cloud security architect is designing a key management strategy for a multi-cloud environment. Which of the following is a BEST practice for key management?
⚠ Common exam trap
ISC2 often tests the misconception that using each cloud provider's native KMS separately is a best practice for multi-cloud, but the trap is that this ignores the need for centralized control, auditability, and cross-cloud interoperability, which are critical for enterprise security.
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
✓
Use a centralized key management system that integrates with all clouds
A centralized key management system (KMS) that integrates with all cloud providers enables consistent key lifecycle management, reduces the risk of key sprawl, and ensures uniform access control policies across a multi-cloud environment. This approach aligns with the principle of separation of duties and allows for centralized auditing and rotation without vendor lock-in.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Use the same key for all data to simplify rotation
Why it's wrong here
Using same key for all data reduces security and increases impact if compromised.
- ✗
Store keys in each cloud provider's native KMS separately
Why it's wrong here
Separate stores increase complexity and inconsistency.
- ✗
Embed keys in application code for simplicity
Why it's wrong here
Embedding keys is insecure and violates best practices.
- ✓
Use a centralized key management system that integrates with all clouds
Why this is correct
Centralized management ensures consistency and simplifies compliance.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This CCSP 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 CCSP exam.