CISSP Security Architecture and Engineering Practice Question
A security architect is designing a physical security system for a data center. Which of the following is an example of a layered physical control at the perimeter?
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
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Fencing around the property
Fencing is a perimeter control that provides a physical barrier around the facility.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
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Biometric access to server room
Why it's wrong here
Biometric access to a server room is an interior physical security control, designed to restrict access to a specific, high-value asset *within* a building. It serves as a secondary layer of defense, authenticating individuals *after* they have already gained entry to the facility's perimeter. This control does not deter or detect unauthorized access at the property boundary itself.
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Locked server cabinets
Why it's wrong here
Locked server cabinets represent a very granular interior physical security control, protecting individual assets *inside* a secure room or data center. This measure is several layers removed from the property's perimeter, focusing on preventing direct access to hardware once an intruder has already bypassed external and internal building security. Its purpose is asset-level protection, not perimeter defense.
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CCTV in the lobby
Why it's wrong here
CCTV in the lobby is an interior physical security control, primarily used for monitoring and recording activities *within* the building's common areas. While crucial for detection and evidence collection, it activates *after* an unauthorized individual has successfully breached the property's external perimeter and entered the facility. It does not provide a barrier or deterrent at the property line.
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Fencing around the property
Why this is correct
Fencing around the property is a primary perimeter physical security control, establishing the outermost boundary of the secured area. Its purpose is to deter unauthorized entry, define the property line, and delay intruders before they can reach the building itself. This initial barrier provides the first line of defense against external threats, making it a foundational perimeter measure.
Go deeper
Related to this question
Learn chapter
Security Governance and Principles
Key term
Security
Security in IT is the practice of protecting systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access, damage, or theft.
Key term
Physical control
Physical controls are tangible security measures like locks, fences, and biometric scanners used to protect buildings, hardware, and sensitive data from unauthorized physical access or harm.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This CISSP 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 CISSP exam.