SSCP Network and Communications Security Practice Question
A network administrator wants to prevent unauthorized devices from connecting to the wired network. Which technology can be used to enforce authentication at the switch port level before granting network access?
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
✓
802.1X
802.1X is a port-based access control standard used in NAC to authenticate devices before network access.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
MAC address filtering
Why it's wrong here
MAC filtering can be spoofed and is not a strong authentication method.
- ✗
WPA2-Enterprise
Why it's wrong here
WPA2-Enterprise is for wireless, not wired.
- ✗
VLAN segmentation
Why it's wrong here
VLANs separate traffic but do not authenticate devices.
- ✓
802.1X
Why this is correct
802.1X authenticates devices at the port level.
Quick reference
AAA Protocol Comparison
| Protocol | Port(s) | Encryption | Transport | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RADIUS | 1812 / 1813 | Password only | UDP | Network access control |
| TACACS+ | 49 | Full packet | TCP | Device administration |
| Diameter | 3868 | Full session | TCP / SCTP | Carrier / mobile networks |
| 802.1X | — | EAP-based | Layer 2 | Port-based access control |
TACACS+ encrypts the entire packet; RADIUS only encrypts the password field — a key exam distinction.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This SSCP 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 SSCP exam.