Question 1easymultiple choice
Full question →easymultiple choiceObjective-mapped
A company implements a security model where no user or device is automatically trusted, even if they are inside the corporate network. Every access request must be authenticated, authorized, and encrypted before granting access, regardless of the request origin. This model is known as:
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Good practice is not just finding the correct option. The wrong answers often show the exact trap the exam wants you to fall into.
A
Distractor review
Defense in depth
Defense in depth uses multiple layers of security controls but does not inherently distrust all internal traffic; it focuses on layered protection rather than explicit verification of every request.
B
Distractor review
Perimeter security
Perimeter security relies on a trusted internal network and a secure boundary, which contradicts the scenario's assumption that no user or device is automatically trusted.
C
Best answer
Zero Trust
Zero Trust is the correct model. It requires explicit verification of every access request, regardless of network location, and enforces least privilege and assumed breach principles.
D
Distractor review
Least privilege
Least privilege is a principle of granting minimal access rights, but it is only one part of a broader security model; it does not encompass the full requirement of authenticating and encrypting every request.
Common exam trap
Common exam trap: authentication is not authorization
Logging in proves the user can authenticate. It does not automatically mean the user is allowed to enter privileged or configuration mode. Watch for AAA authorization, privilege level and command authorization details.
Technical deep dive
How to think about this question
This kind of question is testing the difference between identity and permission. A user may successfully log in to a router because authentication is working, but still fail to enter configuration mode because authorization is missing, misconfigured or mapped to a lower privilege level.
KKey Concepts to Remember
- Authentication checks who the user is.
- Authorization controls what the user is allowed to do after login.
- Privilege levels affect access to EXEC and configuration commands.
- AAA, TACACS+ and RADIUS can separate login success from command access.
TExam Day Tips
- Do not assume successful login means full administrative access.
- Look for words such as cannot enter configuration mode, privilege level, authorization or command access.
- Separate login problems from permission problems before choosing the answer.
Related practice questions
Related SC-900 practice-question pages
Use these pages to review the topic behind this question. This is how one missed question becomes focused revision.
More questions from this exam
Keep practising from the same exam bank, or move into a focused topic page if this question exposed a weak area.
Question 1
A company must retain all customer contracts for 10 years to comply with industry regulations. After 10 years, the contracts must be permanently deleted. Which Microsoft Purview solution should be used to automate this process?
Question 2
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Question 3
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Question 4
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Question 5
A company has a hybrid identity environment with Active Directory synchronizing to Microsoft Entra ID. They want users to be able to reset their own on-premises passwords via the cloud SSPR portal. What is the minimum license required for this capability?
Question 6
A company uses a cloud-based Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system that is delivered as Software-as-a-Service (SaaS). According to the shared responsibility model, which security responsibility is primarily handled by the customer?
FAQ
Questions learners often ask
What does this SC-900 question test?
Authentication checks who the user is.
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Zero Trust — This describes the Zero Trust security model. Zero Trust operates on the principle 'never trust, always verify' and assumes breach, treating every access request as if it originates from an untrusted network. Defense in depth is a layered security approach but does not inherently distrust all internal traffic. Perimeter security relies on trusting users inside the network. Least privilege is a principle of granting minimal access rights, not a complete architectural model.
What should I do if I get this SC-900 question wrong?
Then try more questions from the same exam bank and focus on understanding why the wrong options are tempting.
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