- A
File Blocking
File blocking can block malicious file types.
- B
URL Filtering
Why wrong: URL filtering blocks websites, not malware.
- C
Anti-Spyware
Why wrong: Anti-spyware targets spyware, not all malware.
- D
Antivirus
Antivirus blocks known malware signatures.
- E
Vulnerability Protection
Why wrong: Vulnerability protection blocks exploits, not malware.
Question 185 of 529
Profiles That Block Known Malware: Antivirus and File Blocking
This PCNSA practice question tests your understanding of securing traffic. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. A key principle to apply: antivirus. 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 TWO security profile types are used to block known malware? (Choose two.)
Quick Answer
The answer is Antivirus and File Blocking. These two security profiles block known malware by leveraging distinct mechanisms: Antivirus uses signature-based detection to identify and stop known malicious files, while File Blocking prevents the transfer of specific file types that are commonly associated with malware, such as executables or archives. On the Palo Alto Networks Certified Network Security Administrator PCNSA exam, this question tests your understanding of how security profiles map to threat categories—a common trap is confusing Anti-Spyware or Vulnerability Protection with malware blocking, but remember that Anti-Spyware targets spyware-specific threats and Vulnerability Protection blocks exploit attempts, not the malware files themselves. A helpful memory tip: think of Antivirus as the “known bad” signature catcher and File Blocking as the “risky type” gatekeeper—together they form the frontline defense against known malware.
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
✓
File Blocking
The correct answers are A (File Blocking) and D (Antivirus). Antivirus blocks known malware by comparing files against signature databases. File Blocking prevents specific file types (e.g., executables, archives) from being transferred, which can stop malware delivery. URL Filtering (B) controls web access based on categories, not malware blocking. Anti-Spyware (C) targets spyware specifically, not all known malware. Vulnerability Protection (E) blocks exploit attempts, not malware files themselves.
Key principle: Antivirus
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
File Blocking
Why this is correct
File blocking can block malicious file types.
Related concept
Antivirus
- ✗
URL Filtering
Why it's wrong here
URL filtering blocks websites, not malware.
- ✗
Anti-Spyware
Why it's wrong here
Anti-spyware targets spyware, not all malware.
- ✓
Antivirus
Why this is correct
Antivirus blocks known malware signatures.
Related concept
Antivirus
- ✗
Vulnerability Protection
Why it's wrong here
Vulnerability protection blocks exploits, not malware.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
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
How to think about this question
Treat this as a scenario question. Identify the problem, the constraint, and the best action. Then compare each option against those facts.
KKey Concepts to Remember
- Antivirus
- File Blocking
- Anti-Spyware
- Vulnerability Protection
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
Antivirus
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A practitioner preparing for the PCNSA exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. Antivirus Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
What to study next
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
Review antivirus, then practise related PCNSA questions on the same topic to reinforce the concept.
- →
Securing Traffic — study guide chapter
Learn the concepts, then practise the questions
- →
Securing Traffic practice questions
Targeted practice on this topic area only
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FAQ
Questions learners often ask
What does this PCNSA question test?
Securing Traffic — This question tests Securing Traffic — Antivirus.
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: File Blocking — The correct answers are A (File Blocking) and D (Antivirus). Antivirus blocks known malware by comparing files against signature databases. File Blocking prevents specific file types (e.g., executables, archives) from being transferred, which can stop malware delivery. URL Filtering (B) controls web access based on categories, not malware blocking. Anti-Spyware (C) targets spyware specifically, not all known malware. Vulnerability Protection (E) blocks exploit attempts, not malware files themselves.
What should I do if I get this PCNSA question wrong?
Review antivirus, then practise related PCNSA questions on the same topic to reinforce the concept.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Antivirus
About these practice questions
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Last reviewed: Jun 24, 2026
This PCNSA practice question is part of Courseiva's free Palo Alto Networks 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 PCNSA exam.
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