hardMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
SSCP Practice Question: A security administrator is configuring a…
A security administrator is configuring a wireless network for a branch office. The office has legacy devices that only support WPA2-PSK. The administrator wants to provide the highest level of security while maintaining compatibility. Which configuration should be used?
⚠ Common exam trap
Watch out — candidates often assume WPA2-Enterprise is always more secure than WPA2-PSK, but the question explicitly requires compatibility with legacy devices that only support WPA2-PSK, making WPA2-Enterprise an invalid choice despite its stronger authentication model.
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
✓
WPA2-PSK with AES (CCMP)
WPA2-PSK with AES (CCMP) is correct because it provides the highest security level compatible with legacy devices that only support WPA2-PSK. AES-CCMP is the mandatory encryption protocol for WPA2, offering strong data confidentiality and integrity, whereas TKIP is deprecated due to known vulnerabilities. This configuration avoids the need for a RADIUS server (required by WPA2-Enterprise) and does not force an upgrade to WPA3, which legacy devices cannot support.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
WPA2-Enterprise with RADIUS
Why it's wrong here
Legacy devices may not support 802.1X authentication.
- ✓
WPA2-PSK with AES (CCMP)
Why this is correct
AES is the strongest encryption available for WPA2 and is supported by most devices.
- ✗
WPA3-SAE only
Why it's wrong here
Legacy devices do not support WPA3.
- ✗
WPA2-PSK with TKIP
Why it's wrong here
TKIP is deprecated and less secure than AES.
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.