Lead-in: A software development company wants to protect their computer systems and data from unauthorised access. (Q5(a) asked for two methods of physical security.)
(b) Identify and describe two software-based security methods that the company can use to protect their computer systems and data.
Method 1 ......................................................................
Description ........................................................................
Method 2 ......................................................................
Description ........................................................................
[6]
Some candidates gave software-based security methods in response to this question instead of physical.— J277_01_ER_Jun2022.txt lines 300-301 (re Q5(a); same scenario)
Method 1: Anti-malware.
Description: Anti-malware scans for and identifies viruses, spyware and malware by comparing data on the computer to a database of known malware signatures. When it finds a match it alerts the user and quarantines or deletes the malicious file, and it stops malware from being downloaded onto the system.
Method 2: Encryption.
Description: Encryption scrambles data using an algorithm so that if the data is intercepted it cannot be understood. A key is required to decrypt the data back into its original readable form, meaning only authorised users with the key can access it.
Make sure both methods are software-based. Locks, CCTV and biometric door entry are physical — if you name one of those, you score 0 for the method and the description is not read. The two methods must be different — "password" and "two-factor authentication" are too similar; pick distinct categories (e.g. anti-malware + encryption, or anti-malware + firewall).