Watchguard Network Security Practice Test

Which configuration setting would typically block unauthorized external access?

1. Setting a static route to an external network.

2. Enabling automated updates.

3. Configuring NAT for internal resources.

4. Creating a deny-all inbound rule.

The correct answer is: Creating a deny-all inbound rule.

Creating a deny-all inbound rule is a fundamental practice for enhancing network security by proactively preventing unauthorized external access. This type of configuration specifies that no external traffic is permitted to enter the network unless explicitly allowed by additional rules. By default, it provides a strong security posture since it minimizes exposure to potential attacks, unauthorized access attempts, or vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious entities. In a secure network environment, it's essential to have strict controls over which types of traffic can enter your internal network. A deny-all inbound rule means that every packet attempting to enter the network from an external source is rejected unless explicitly permitted by specific allow rules that can be defined separately. This creates a barrier that protects internal resources from external threats, ensuring that only trusted communication is allowed. In contrast, the other options do not directly address unauthorized access. For example, setting a static route to an external network mainly manages the path of traffic but does not inherently block or allow it. Enabling automated updates ensures that the system is kept up to date with the latest security patches and software versions but does not directly prevent unauthorized access. Configuring NAT (Network Address Translation) for internal resources can help obscure internal IP addresses but doesn't block incoming traffic unless combined with specific access control rules. Therefore,