Cybersecurity-Practitioner Endpoint Security Practice Question
An endpoint has been flagged in Cortex XDR with multiple high-severity alerts. The security operations team decides to isolate the endpoint immediately to prevent lateral movement. Which network traffic remains permitted by default when an endpoint is placed in isolation mode in Cortex XDR?
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
✓
Communication with the Cortex XDR server and essential DNS/DHCP services.
When an endpoint is isolated, network access is blocked except for communication with the Cortex XDR management server and specified DNS/DHCP services.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
All network protocols without restriction.
Why it's wrong here
Isolation completely restricts standard network activity.
- ✓
Communication with the Cortex XDR server and essential DNS/DHCP services.
Why this is correct
Isolation blocks lateral movement but preserves management connectivity so administrators can still issue commands and collect forensics.
- ✗
SMB and RDP traffic to internal domain controllers.
Why it's wrong here
Lateral movement protocols like SMB and RDP are strictly blocked during isolation.
- ✗
All outbound traffic to external internet websites via HTTPS.
Why it's wrong here
General internet traffic is blocked during isolation.
Visual reference
About these practice questions
One of 206 original Cybersecurity-Practitioner practice questions on Courseiva, each with a full explanation and wrong-answer analysis — not exam dumps or protected exam content. Learn why practice questions differ from exam dumps →
JA
Written and reviewed by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
Last reviewed August 2026 · checked against the official Palo Alto Networks exam blueprint
This Cybersecurity-Practitioner 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 Cybersecurity-Practitioner exam.