ISC Infrastructure And System Security Practice Question
A company is implementing database encryption at rest. What is the most secure way to handle the master encryption keys?
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 Hardware Security Module (HSM).
Using a FIPS 140-2 Level 3 Hardware Security Module (HSM) ensures that the master keys are never exposed in plaintext and are protected by tamper-evident hardware.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Encrypt the keys with a password and store them in the database.
Why it's wrong here
This still leaves the keys vulnerable to brute-force if the database is compromised.
- ✗
Hardcode keys into the application environment variables.
Why it's wrong here
Environment variables can often be leaked or dumped by unauthorized users.
- ✗
Store keys in a configuration file on the database server.
Why it's wrong here
This exposes keys to any user with root access.
- ✓
Use a Hardware Security Module (HSM).
Why this is correct
HSMs are specifically designed for the secure management of cryptographic keys.
About these practice questions
One of 208 original ISC practice questions on Courseiva, each with a full explanation and wrong-answer analysis — not exam dumps or protected exam content. Learn why practice questions differ from exam dumps →
JA
Written and reviewed by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
Last reviewed August 2026 · checked against the official (ISC)² exam blueprint
This ISC practice question is part of Courseiva's free (ISC)² 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 ISC exam.