- A
Buffer overflow
Why wrong: Buffer overflow is an application-layer vulnerability, not a network-based attack. It exploits software memory management flaws.
- B
ARP spoofing
ARP spoofing is a network-based attack that operates at Layer 2 of the OSI model by exploiting the ARP protocol.
- C
SQL injection
Why wrong: SQL injection is an application-layer attack targeting database queries through user input, not a network-level threat.
- D
SYN flood
SYN flood is a network-based DoS attack that targets the TCP handshake process at Layer 4.
- E
DNS amplification
DNS amplification is a network-based DDoS attack that uses open DNS resolvers to flood a target with amplified traffic.
Question 128 of 1,000
hardMultiple SelectObjective-mapped
SSCP Network-based attack Practice Question
This SSCP practice question tests your understanding of network-based attack. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. A key principle to apply: network-based attack. 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.
Which THREE are common types of network-based attacks? (Choose three.)
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
✓
ARP spoofing
ARP spoofing, SYN flood, and DNS amplification are all common network-based attacks. ARP spoofing operates at Layer 2 by sending falsified ARP messages to associate the attacker's MAC with a legitimate IP, enabling traffic interception. SYN flood exploits the TCP three-way handshake by sending numerous SYN packets without completing the handshake, exhausting server resources. DNS amplification is a volumetric attack that uses open DNS servers to amplify traffic by sending small queries that generate large responses. Buffer overflow and SQL injection are application-layer attacks, not network-based.
Key principle: Network-based attack
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Buffer overflow
Why it's wrong here
Buffer overflow is an application-layer vulnerability, not a network-based attack. It exploits software memory management flaws.
- ✓
ARP spoofing
Why this is correct
ARP spoofing is a network-based attack that operates at Layer 2 of the OSI model by exploiting the ARP protocol.
Related concept
Network-based attack
- ✗
SQL injection
Why it's wrong here
SQL injection is an application-layer attack targeting database queries through user input, not a network-level threat.
- ✓
SYN flood
Why this is correct
SYN flood is a network-based DoS attack that targets the TCP handshake process at Layer 4.
Related concept
Network-based attack
- ✓
DNS amplification
Why this is correct
DNS amplification is a network-based DDoS attack that uses open DNS resolvers to flood a target with amplified traffic.
Related concept
Network-based attack
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
The trap here is that candidates often confuse application-layer attacks (like SQL injection or buffer overflow) with network-based attacks, but the SSCP exam specifically tests whether you can distinguish attacks that operate at Layer 2 or Layer 3 of the OSI model from those targeting software or databases.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
ARP spoofing works by sending gratuitous ARP replies that update the ARP cache of target hosts without a corresponding request. In a real-world scenario, an attacker on the same subnet can perform a man-in-the-middle attack, intercepting all traffic between a victim and the default gateway. Tools like Ettercap or arpspoof automate this, and defenses include dynamic ARP inspection (DAI) on managed switches and static ARP entries.
KKey Concepts to Remember
- Network-based attack
- ARP spoofing
- SYN flood
- DNS amplification
TExam Day Tips
- Watch for words such as best, first, most likely and least administrative effort.
- Review why wrong options are wrong, not only why the correct option is correct.
Key takeaway
Network-based attack
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A security team runs a vulnerability scan on a web application and discovers an unpatched SQL injection flaw. The team prioritises remediation by CVSS score — critical flaws are patched within 24 hours, high within 7 days. Questions like this test whether you understand vulnerability management processes, scanning tools, and remediation prioritisation.
Visual reference
Quick reference
Access Control Model Comparison
| Model | Acronym | Who Controls Access? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Discretionary Access Control | DAC | Resource owner | Small teams, file shares |
| Mandatory Access Control | MAC | System / security labels | Classified govt / military |
| Role-Based Access Control | RBAC | Administrator (via roles) | Enterprise environments |
| Attribute-Based Access Control | ABAC | Policy engine (user + resource attributes) | Fine-grained, dynamic policies |
| Rule-Based Access Control | RuBAC | System rules / ACLs | Firewall rules, network ACLs |
What to study next
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
Review network-based attack, then practise related SSCP questions on the same topic to reinforce the concept.
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FAQ
Questions learners often ask
What does this SSCP question test?
Network-based attack
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: ARP spoofing — ARP spoofing, SYN flood, and DNS amplification are all common network-based attacks. ARP spoofing operates at Layer 2 by sending falsified ARP messages to associate the attacker's MAC with a legitimate IP, enabling traffic interception. SYN flood exploits the TCP three-way handshake by sending numerous SYN packets without completing the handshake, exhausting server resources. DNS amplification is a volumetric attack that uses open DNS servers to amplify traffic by sending small queries that generate large responses. Buffer overflow and SQL injection are application-layer attacks, not network-based.
What should I do if I get this SSCP question wrong?
Review network-based attack, then practise related SSCP questions on the same topic to reinforce the concept.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Network-based attack
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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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