Palo Alto Networks Certified Cybersecurity Entry-level Technician (PCCET)Palo Alto Networks TechnologiesHard
A cybersecurity team is implementing a zero-trust network architecture. They need to ensure that every user and device is authenticated and authorized before gaining access to any internal resource, regardless of its location or network segment. Which Palo Alto Networks security platform component is fundamental to enforcing this 'never trust, always verify' principle?
- ANext-Generation Firewall (NGFW)
- BPrisma Cloud
- CGlobalProtect
- DCortex XDR
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW)
The Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW) is fundamental to zero-trust as it enables granular control based on App-ID, User-ID, and Content-ID, inspecting all traffic (even internal) and enforcing policies that authenticate and authorize every connection.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Prisma Cloud secures multi-cloud environments, but the NGFW is the core enforcement point for network traffic in a zero-trust architecture.
- C. GlobalProtect provides secure remote access to the network, but the NGFW is what then enforces zero-trust policies on that access and internal traffic.
- D. Cortex XDR provides detection and response for endpoints and networks, which complements zero trust but is not the primary enforcement engine.
NGFW & Zero Trust
The Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall is a core component of a zero-trust architecture, enforcing the 'never trust, always verify' principle by providing granular control over all network traffic based on identity, application, and content.
- Enforces policies based on App-ID, User-ID, and Content-ID.
- Inspects all traffic, including internal (east-west) traffic.
- Authenticates and authorizes every connection before granting access.
- Moves security enforcement closer to the resource.
Memory trick: To trust no one, the Firewall must see everyone.