Quick Answer
AES-256 in CBC mode is the correct choice for protecting data at rest because it combines a 256-bit symmetric key, which is computationally infeasible to brute-force, with Cipher Block Chaining mode that uses a unique initialization vector for each encryption session. This ensures that identical plaintext blocks produce different ciphertext, effectively preventing pattern leakage and meeting the confidentiality requirements outlined in NIST SP 800-38A. On the Systems Security Certified Practitioner SSCP exam, this question tests your understanding of symmetric encryption standards for stored data, often appearing in scenario-based items where you must distinguish between modes like ECB (which leaks patterns and is a common trap) and CBC. Remember the memory tip: “CBC for stored data, ECB is a no-go”—ECB’s lack of an IV makes it unsuitable for databases, while AES-256-CBC provides the necessary diffusion and strength for regulatory compliance.
This SSCP practice question tests your understanding of cryptography. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
A security administrator needs to store sensitive customer data in a database. To protect the data at rest, which encryption method should be used?
RSA-2048
Why wrong: RSA is asymmetric and too slow for bulk data encryption.
Blowfish in CTR mode
Why wrong: Blowfish has a small 64-bit block size and is less secure than AES.
AES-256 in CBC mode
AES-256 in CBC mode is a strong symmetric encryption suitable for data at rest.
DES in ECB mode
Why wrong: DES is outdated and weak; ECB mode reveals patterns.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
AES-256 in CBC mode
AES-256 in CBC mode is the correct choice because it is a strong, widely accepted symmetric encryption algorithm that provides confidentiality for data at rest. AES-256 uses a 256-bit key, making it resistant to brute-force attacks, and CBC mode adds an initialization vector (IV) to ensure that identical plaintext blocks produce different ciphertext, preventing pattern leakage. This combination is recommended by standards such as NIST SP 800-38A for protecting sensitive stored data.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
RSA-2048
Why it's wrong here
RSA is asymmetric and too slow for bulk data encryption.
Blowfish in CTR mode
Why it's wrong here
Blowfish has a small 64-bit block size and is less secure than AES.
AES-256 in CBC mode
Why this is correct
AES-256 in CBC mode is a strong symmetric encryption suitable for data at rest.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
DES in ECB mode
Why it's wrong here
DES is outdated and weak; ECB mode reveals patterns.
Common exam traps
The trap here is that candidates often confuse asymmetric encryption (RSA) with symmetric encryption for data at rest, or they overlook the weaknesses of legacy algorithms like DES and Blowfish, assuming any encryption is sufficient without considering key size and mode of operation.
Detailed technical explanation
AES-256 in CBC mode works by XORing each plaintext block with the previous ciphertext block before encryption, using a random IV for the first block to ensure uniqueness. Under the hood, CBC mode requires proper IV management—if the IV is reused with the same key, it can leak information about the first block. In real-world scenarios, such as encrypting a database column, AES-256-CBC is often combined with key management systems like AWS KMS or Azure Key Vault to securely store and rotate encryption keys.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A developer is choosing between AES-256 (symmetric) and RSA-2048 (asymmetric) for encrypting a large file that will be sent to a partner. Symmetric encryption is fast but requires key exchange; asymmetric is slower but solves the key distribution problem. A hybrid approach — encrypt the file with AES, encrypt the AES key with RSA — is standard. Questions like this test whether you understand when each approach applies.
What to study next
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FAQ
Cryptography — This question tests Cryptography — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: AES-256 in CBC mode — AES-256 in CBC mode is the correct choice because it is a strong, widely accepted symmetric encryption algorithm that provides confidentiality for data at rest. AES-256 uses a 256-bit key, making it resistant to brute-force attacks, and CBC mode adds an initialization vector (IV) to ensure that identical plaintext blocks produce different ciphertext, preventing pattern leakage. This combination is recommended by standards such as NIST SP 800-38A for protecting sensitive stored data.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Last reviewed: Jun 25, 2026
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.
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