SSCP Network and Communications Security Practice Question
An organization wants to ensure that only authorized devices can connect to the corporate wired network. Which technology should they implement to enforce this?
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
✓
Network Access Control (NAC) with 802.1X
Network Access Control (NAC) with 802.1X authenticates devices before granting network access, enforcing compliance and authorization.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Network Access Control (NAC) with 802.1X
Why this is correct
NAC with 802.1X authenticates and authorizes devices on the network.
- ✗
VLAN segmentation
Why it's wrong here
VLANs segment traffic but do not authenticate devices.
- ✗
MAC address filtering
Why it's wrong here
MAC filtering can be spoofed and is not a robust authentication method.
- ✗
Firewall rules
Why it's wrong here
Firewalls filter traffic but do not authenticate endpoints.
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.