Quick Answer
The correct answer is that the 'Block the file' action adds the file hash to the block list in Microsoft Defender for Endpoint. This action creates a global indicator of compromise (IOC) that prevents the file from executing on any device in the organization, effectively neutralizing the threat at the hash level without requiring immediate deletion or device isolation. On the SC-200 exam, this question tests your understanding of automated investigation response actions within Microsoft Defender XDR, where a common trap is confusing blocking with deletion or isolation—blocking only stops future execution, it does not remove existing copies or quarantine the device. A useful memory tip is to think of it as a "digital restraining order" for the file's hash: it bars entry everywhere but doesn't clean up what is already inside.
This SC-200 practice question tests your understanding of respond to security incidents. 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.
Your organization uses Microsoft Defender XDR. You receive an automated investigation that found a malicious file on a device. The investigation recommends 'Block the file'. What does this action do?
Adds the file hash to the block list in Microsoft Defender for Endpoint.
Blocking the file prevents it from running on any device.
Isolates the device where the file was found.
Why wrong: Isolation is a separate action.
Initiates a full antivirus scan on all devices.
Why wrong: Blocking does not trigger scans.
Deletes the file from all devices in the organization.
Why wrong: Blocking does not delete; it prevents execution.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
Adds the file hash to the block list in Microsoft Defender for Endpoint.
Option A is correct because blocking the file adds it to the global indicator of compromise (IOC) list, preventing future execution. Option B is wrong because it does not delete the file from all devices. Option C is wrong because it does not isolate the device. Option D is wrong because it does not scan other devices automatically.
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.
Adds the file hash to the block list in Microsoft Defender for Endpoint.
Why this is correct
Blocking the file prevents it from running on any device.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Isolates the device where the file was found.
Why it's wrong here
Isolation is a separate action.
Initiates a full antivirus scan on all devices.
Why it's wrong here
Blocking does not trigger scans.
Deletes the file from all devices in the organization.
Why it's wrong here
Blocking does not delete; it prevents execution.
Common exam traps
Many certification questions include familiar terms but test a specific constraint. Read the exact wording before choosing an answer that is generally true but wrong for this case.
Detailed technical explanation
This question should be treated as a scenario, not a definition check. Identify the problem, the constraint and the best action. Then compare each option against those facts.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A cloud solutions architect for a retail company is evaluating services for a new workload. The correct answer here reflects best practice for the specific scenario described — not a general cloud recommendation. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Cloud exam questions reward reading the constraint carefully: the same technology can be right or wrong depending on the use case.
What to study next
Identify which SC-200 exam domain this question belongs to, then review the specific concept being tested. Practise related questions in that domain and focus on understanding why each wrong answer is tempting — not just why the correct answer is right.
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FAQ
Respond to security incidents — This question tests Respond to security incidents — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: Adds the file hash to the block list in Microsoft Defender for Endpoint. — Option A is correct because blocking the file adds it to the global indicator of compromise (IOC) list, preventing future execution. Option B is wrong because it does not delete the file from all devices. Option C is wrong because it does not isolate the device. Option D is wrong because it does not scan other devices automatically.
Identify which SC-200 exam domain this question belongs to, then review the specific concept being tested. Practise related questions in that domain and focus on understanding why each wrong answer is tempting — not just why the correct answer is right.
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Last reviewed: Jun 21, 2026
This SC-200 practice question is part of Courseiva's free Microsoft 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 SC-200 exam.
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