Securing Network Printer for Internet Access | CompTIA CASP+ Exam Prep

Secure Method for Allowing a Network Printer on the Corporate Network

Question

A network printer needs Internet access to function.

Corporate policy states all devices allowed on the network must be authenticated.

Which of the following is the MOST secure method to allow the printer on the network without violating policy?

Answers

Explanations

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A. B. C. D.

D.

The most secure method to allow the printer on the network without violating policy would be to issue a certificate to the printer and use certificate-based authentication (option D).

Certificate-based authentication is a secure method for verifying the identity of a device or user. In this case, the printer would be issued a digital certificate, which would allow it to connect to the network without requiring a username and password. This method ensures that only authorized devices can connect to the network, as each device is required to have a valid digital certificate.

Option A, requesting an exception to the corporate policy from the risk management committee, may be a viable option in some cases, but it is not the most secure option. Exceptions to corporate policy can create security vulnerabilities and increase risk to the organization.

Option B, requiring anyone trying to use the printer to enter their username and password, is not the most secure option because it relies on user compliance. Users may share their login credentials or use weak passwords, which could compromise network security.

Option C, having a help desk employee sign in to the printer every morning, is not a scalable solution and may not be feasible for large organizations. Additionally, it introduces the possibility of human error or intentional wrongdoing, which could compromise network security.

Therefore, the best option for allowing the printer on the network without violating policy is to issue a certificate to the printer and use certificate-based authentication.