CCSP Cloud Data Security Practice Question
A cloud security architect is designing a key management strategy to meet regulatory requirements for key separation and tamper evidence. Which TWO of the following are benefits of using hardware security modules (HSMs) backing a cloud KMS? (Select TWO.)
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
✓
Compliance with FIPS 140-2 Level 3 or higher
HSMs provide tamper-resistant hardware for key generation and storage, ensuring keys are protected against physical tampering. They also provide a root of trust for key management.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Compliance with FIPS 140-2 Level 3 or higher
Why this is correct
HSMs can meet higher FIPS security levels, aiding regulatory compliance.
- ✗
Eliminates the need for customer-managed keys
Why it's wrong here
HSMs still require customer management of keys.
- ✗
Reduced latency for encryption operations
Why it's wrong here
HSM operations may have higher latency compared to software-based KMS.
- ✗
Automatic key rotation without customer intervention
Why it's wrong here
Key rotation can be automated but is not an exclusive benefit of HSM-backed KMS.
- ✓
Tamper-resistant key storage that prevents key extraction
Why this is correct
HSMs are tamper-resistant and protect keys from physical attacks.
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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.