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SSCP Practice Question: Which TWO factors are most critical when…
Which TWO factors are most critical when selecting a cryptographic algorithm for a government application?
⚠ Common exam trap
ISC2 often tests the misconception that speed or popularity are primary selection criteria, when in fact government applications are driven by regulatory mandates and cryptographic strength (key length) as defined by standards like FIPS.
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
✓
Key length
For government applications, regulatory compliance (e.g., FIPS 140-2) is critical because it mandates that cryptographic modules meet specific security standards for protecting sensitive data. Key length is equally critical because it directly determines the algorithm's resistance to brute-force attacks; insufficient key length can render encryption ineffective regardless of other factors.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Speed of encryption/decryption
Why it's wrong here
Speed is secondary to security and compliance.
- ✓
Key length
Why this is correct
Key length directly affects security strength.
- ✗
Algorithm popularity
Why it's wrong here
Popularity does not guarantee suitability for government standards.
- ✓
Regulatory compliance (e.g., FIPS 140-2)
Why this is correct
Government applications often require compliance with standards like FIPS.
- ✗
Ease of implementation
Why it's wrong here
Ease is less critical than security and compliance.
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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.