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System security

5 minutes 5 Questions

System security is the practice of protecting an operating system from potential threats and unauthorized access. This encompasses various aspects such as authentication, access control, encryption, firewalls, and anti-malware. An operating system's security features determine how well it can defend against attacks, detect security breaches, and recover from malware infections or system failures. Operating system developers often release patches and updates to address newly discovered security vulnerabilities, ensuring that systems remain protected. IT professionals must stay informed on the latest OS security features and best practices, regularly apply security updates and patches, and monitor system activity to proactively address potential threats. The importance of system security has grown as cyberattacks continue to increase in sophistication and frequency.

System Security Guide for CompTIA A+ Exam

What is System Security: System Security refers to the protections and procedures designed to safeguard your computer systems, network, and data from threats or compromises. It involves hardware, software, processes, and human elements.

Why is it Important: System Security is critical because it prevents data theft, reputation damage, and service disruptions. It ensures the operation and integrity of your systems, reducing the chance of a breach and the cost of recovery after an incident.

How it works: System Security works through a multi-pronged approach including firewalls, antivirus software, password policies, encryption, intrusion detection systems, and employee training. It monitors the system for unusual activity, defends against attacks, and backups critical data for recovery purposes.

Exam Tips - Answering Questions on System Security:
1. Understand the basics: Before attempting questions on system security, you need to understand the foundational principles such as the importance of system security, its components, and how it functions.
2. Real-world scenario approach: Apply system security theories to real-world scenarios in the exam. This will help you understand the potential issues that may come up and the possible solutions.
3. Practice: The more you practice answers to system security questions, the more comfortable you will be during the exam. Use practice tests and mock exams to gauge your knowledge and readiness.
4. Concise and Direct Answers: CompTIA A+ exams generally favor a clear and concise answer. Avoid rambling and stick to the point.

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CompTIA A+ - Operating Systems Example Questions

Test your knowledge of Amazon Simple Storage Service (S3)

Question 1

A manager is concerned about malware spreading through the use of USB drives. Which policy should be implemented to mitigate this risk?

Correct Answer: Disable USB ports by default and allow only authorized USB drives

Disabling USB ports and allowing only authorized USB drives minimizes the risk of malware being introduced via USB drives. Inspecting USB drives for physical damage does not address the malware risk. Allowing only encrypted USB drives does not guarantee they are free from malware. Disabling all external storage devices may be impractical. Allowing only USB drives provided by the company and storing them in a secure location may not prevent an employee from unknowingly spreading malware.

Question 2

Employees report slow computer performance and multiple pop-ups appearing on their screens. What is the most likely cause, and which action should be taken to resolve the issue?

Correct Answer: Malware infection; Perform a full system scan and remove any detected threats

The symptoms of slow computer performance and multiple pop-ups appearing on the screens are strong indicators of a malware infection. Malware can consume system resources, causing slowdowns, and often displays intrusive pop-up advertisements. The best course of action is to perform a full system scan using up-to-date antivirus software to detect and remove any malware threats. Outdated software, while a potential security risk, would not typically cause pop-ups. Overheating can lead to slowdowns but wouldn't cause pop-ups. Insufficient RAM can result in poor performance but is not directly related to pop-ups.

Question 3

Which of the following is the most effective way to protect sensitive data on a mobile device?

Correct Answer: Full disk encryption

Full disk encryption is the most effective way to protect sensitive data on a mobile device. Here's why:

Full disk encryption secures all data stored on the device by converting it into unreadable code. This method protects the entire storage system, including system files, user data, and temporary files. If the device is lost or stolen, the encrypted data remains inaccessible to unauthorized users.

Setting a complex password is important but not as comprehensive as full disk encryption. It primarily protects against unauthorized access to the device interface but doesn't secure the data if the storage is physically removed.

Installing antivirus software helps protect against malware but doesn't directly secure stored data from physical access or theft.

Using a VPN connection secures data in transit over networks but doesn't protect data stored on the device itself.

While all these methods contribute to overall device security, full disk encryption provides the most robust protection for sensitive data stored on a mobile device.

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