Security Plus SY0-701 Domain 1 Handout (1)

Introduction

• Presenter: Pete Zerger, vCISO, CISSP | Coverage of the CompTIA Security+ Exam (SY0-701)

• Importance of understanding security controls to prepare for the exam.

Exam Preparation Materials

• Security+ CompTIA Exam Study Guide (Ninth Edition)

  • Offers a comprehensive overview of all topics in the official syllabus.

  • Includes: Practice tests, key term glossary, online learning tools, and flashcards.

Practice Tests

• Over 500 practice questions included.

• Provides a year of free access upon activation.

Additional Resources

• Coupons available for 10% off CompTIA Exam Vouchers.

• Links for purchasing materials can be found in the video description.

General Security Concepts (Domain 1.0)

Security Controls Overview

• Types of security controls:

  • Technical: Hardware/software systems managing access and resource protection.

  • Managerial: Policies/procedures defined by security policies to manage risk.

  • Operational: Daily compliance to security processes, typically executed by individuals.

  • Physical: Mechanical devices focusing on facilities and real-world security.

Control Types

• Preventive: Designed to avoid unauthorized activity (e.g., encryption, firewalls).

• Deterrent: Discourages policy violations (e.g., fences, alarms).

• Detective: Identifies unauthorized activity (e.g., cameras, IDS).

• Corrective: Restores systems post-security violation (e.g., backups).

• Compensating: Alternative methods to enforce security protocols (e.g., audits).

• Directive: Controls that direct behavior to ensure compliance (like policies).

Key Concepts in Security Controls

Control Categories

1. Technical Controls

   • Examples: Encryption, physical access controls, network defenses.

2. Managerial Controls

   • Policies, security training, conducting risk assessments.

3. Operational Controls

   • Day-to-day management of security practices.

4. Physical Controls

   • Guards, locked doors, security lighting.

Control Implementation

• Recognizing that one control may serve multiple types/functions based on implementation context.

• Example: Security cameras can deter (if visible) and also detect (if recording).

Importance of Change Management

Change Management Processes

• Critical aspects include approval processes, ownership, impact analysis, and testing before implementation.

• Aims to minimize risks associated with changes to security measures.

Technical Implications

• Includes allow lists/deny lists and understanding dependencies between applications and services.

Documentation and Version Control

• Maintains an accurate state of configurations to ensure that changes do not expose vulnerabilities.

• Version control aids in tracking changes systematically.

Cryptographic Solutions (Domain 1.4)

Importance of Cryptography

• Key Concepts: modifiable keys for encryption and secure transmission, including public/private key infrastructure.

• Implementation of cryptographic measures involves practical tools such as TPM, HSM, and Key Management Systems.

Encryption Types

1. Asymmetric Encryption: Utilizes key pairs; public for encryption and private for decryption.

2. Symmetric Encryption: Same key for both enciphering and deciphering data.

3. Hashing and Salting: To ensure data integrity and secure password storage against rainbow table attacks.

Signature and Verification

• Digital signatures provide authentication, integrity, and non-repudiation for electronic communications.

• Governed by standards to ensure the authenticity of certificates (e.g., Digital Signature Standard).

Conclusion

• Understanding security principles, types of security controls, cryptographic methods, and change management processes is vital for passing the Security+ exam and ensuring a robust security posture.