(ISC)2 Certified in Cybersecurity Practice Exam

What is the purpose of microsegmentation in security?

1. To simplify network management

2. To enforce security at a granular level

3. To increase network speed

4. To eliminate the need for firewalls

The correct answer is: To enforce security at a granular level

Microsegmentation is aimed at enhancing security by allowing organizations to create secure segments within their networks, thereby enforcing security policies at a granular level. This approach involves dividing the network into smaller, isolated zones, which enables administrators to control traffic flow and access permissions with precision. The key benefit of microsegmentation is that it limits the attack surface and minimizes lateral movement within the network. For instance, if a cyberattack gains access to a segment, the impact is contained, preventing it from spreading to other segments or the entire network. By applying tailored security policies to each segment based on its unique needs and risk profile, organizations can better protect sensitive data and comply with regulatory requirements. While it is true that microsegmentation might also influence network management and performance indirectly, those are not its primary objectives. Therefore, the focus on granular enforcement of security measures is what fundamentally underscores the purpose of microsegmentation in enhancing an organization's security posture.