In which scenario is air-gapping most appropriate?

In which scenario is air-gapping most appropriate?

• A. Highly sensitive systems requiring no network connectivity
• B. Systems with regular online updates
• C. Public web servers with internet exposure
• D. Laptops used in field operations

Answer: (A)

Air-gapping isolates a system from all network connections to stop any remote access or spread of malware. It’s most appropriate when the priority is absolute isolation due to extreme sensitivity, meaning there should be no path for attackers through networks or the internet. In that scenario, keeping the system offline prevents even sophisticated network-based exploits and data exfiltration. The other cases rely on connectivity: systems that need online updates can’t stay offline, public web servers must be reachable from the internet, and field-operation laptops typically rely on networks for data, communication, and support. Those needs would defeat an air-gap, which is why they aren’t suitable.

Air-gapping isolates a system from all network connections to stop any remote access or spread of malware. It’s most appropriate when the priority is absolute isolation due to extreme sensitivity, meaning there should be no path for attackers through networks or the internet. In that scenario, keeping the system offline prevents even sophisticated network-based exploits and data exfiltration.

The other cases rely on connectivity: systems that need online updates can’t stay offline, public web servers must be reachable from the internet, and field-operation laptops typically rely on networks for data, communication, and support. Those needs would defeat an air-gap, which is why they aren’t suitable.