Palo Alto Networks (PANW) Certified Cybersecurity Entry-level Technician (PCCET) Practice Exam

Which element can reduce the number of unauthorized, unpatched, or compromised devices from connecting to the network?

1. DNS Sinkholing

2. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

3. Identity and Access Management

4. Network Access Control

The correct answer is: Network Access Control

Network Access Control (NAC) is an essential component in maintaining network security as it helps in managing which devices are permitted to connect to the network. By implementing NAC, organizations can establish policies that define the conditions under which devices can access network resources. This includes checking whether devices meet specific security requirements, such as having up-to-date antivirus definitions, patches, and operating systems, before granting them access. NAC solutions typically perform health checks on devices attempting to connect and can deny access to those that do not comply with security standards. This proactive approach significantly reduces the risk posed by unauthorized, unpatched, or compromised devices, ultimately strengthening the overall security posture of the network. In contrast, while other options like DNS Sinkholing and VPNs serve important security roles, they do not specifically focus on controlling access based on device compliance or vulnerability status. Identity and Access Management (IAM) primarily deals with user identity verification and permissions rather than assessing the security state of devices connecting to a network. Therefore, NAC stands out as the most effective solution for reducing the connection of potentially harmful devices.