Palo Alto Networks PSE-HARDWARE-FIREWAL Online Practice Questions and Exam Preparation

Palo Alto Networks PSE-HARDWARE-FIREWAL Online Questions & Answers

• Question 1:

  The PAN-OS User-ID integrated agent is included with PAN-OS software and comes in which two forms? (Choose two.)

  A. Integrated agent
  B. GlobalProtect agent
  C. Windows-based agent
  D. Cloud Identity Engine (CIE)
  A. Integrated agent
  C. Windows-based agent

  ---

  explanation:

  Explanation

  User-ID is a feature in PAN-OS that maps IP addresses to usernames by integrating with various directory services (e.g., Active Directory). User-ID can be implemented through agents provided by Palo Alto Networks. Here's how each option

  applies:

  Option A: Integrated agent

  The integrated User-ID agent is built into PAN-OS and does not require an external agent installation. It is configured directly on the firewall and integrates with directory services to retrieve user information.

  This is correct.

  Option B: GlobalProtect agent

  GlobalProtect is Palo Alto Networks' VPN solution and does not function as a User-ID agent. While it can be used to authenticate users and provide visibility, it is not categorized as a User-ID agent.

  This is incorrect.

  Option C: Windows-based agent

  The Windows-based User-ID agent is a standalone agent installed on a Windows server. It collects user mapping information from directory services and sends it to the firewall.

  This is correct.

  Option D: Cloud Identity Engine (CIE)

  The Cloud Identity Engine provides identity services in a cloud-native manner but isnot a User- ID agent. It synchronizes with identity providers like Azure AD and Okta.

  This is incorrect.

  References:

  Palo Alto Networks documentation on User-ID

  Knowledge Base article on User-ID Agent Options

• Question 2:

  An existing customer wants to expand their online business into physical stores for the first time. The customer requires NGFWs at the physical store to handle SD-WAN, security, and data protection needs, while also mandating a vendor-validated deployment method. Which two steps are valid actions for a systems engineer to take? (Choose two.)

  A. Recommend the customer purchase Palo Alto Networks or partner-provided professional services to meet the stated requirements.
  B. Use Golden Images and Day 1 configuration to create a consistent baseline from which thecustomer can efficiently work.
  C. Create a bespoke deployment plan with the customer that reviews their cloud architecture, store footprint, and security requirements.
  D. Use the reference architecture "On-Premises Network Security for the Branch Deployment Guide" to achieve a desired architecture.
  A. Recommend the customer purchase Palo Alto Networks or partner-provided professional services to meet the stated requirements.
  C. Create a bespoke deployment plan with the customer that reviews their cloud architecture, store footprint, and security requirements.

  ---

  explanation:

  Explanation

  When assisting a customer in deploying next-generation firewalls (NGFWs) for their new physical store branches, it is crucial to address their requirements for SD-WAN, security, and data protection with a validated deployment methodology. Palo Alto Networks provides robust solutions for branch security and SD- WAN integration, and several steps align with vendor-validated methods: Option A (Correct):Palo Alto Networks or certified partners provide professional services for validated deployment methods, including SD-WAN, security, and data protection in branch locations. Professional services ensure that the deployment adheres to industry best practices and Palo Alto's validated reference architectures. This ensures a scalable and secure deployment across all branch locations. Option B:While using Golden Images and a Day 1 configuration can create a consistent baseline for configuration deployment, it does not align directly with the requirement of following vendor-validated deployment methodologies. This step is helpful but secondary to vendor-validated professional services and bespoke deployment planning. Option C (Correct):A bespoke deployment plan considers the customer's specific architecture, store footprint, and unique security requirements. Palo Alto Networks' system engineers typically collaborate with the customer to design and validate tailored deployments, ensuring alignment with the customer's operational goals while maintaining compliance with validated architectures. Option D:While Palo Alto Networks provides branch deployment guides (such as the "On-Premises Network Security for the Branch Deployment Guide"), these guides are primarily reference materials. They do not substitute for vendor-provided professional services or the creation of tailored deployment plans with the customer.

  References: Palo Alto Networks SD-WAN Deployment Guide. Branch Deployment Architecture Best Practices: https://docs.paloaltonetworks.com Professional Services Overview: https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/services

• Question 3:

  What are three valid Panorama deployment options? (Choose three.)

  A. As a virtual machine (ESXi, Hyper-V, KVM)
  B. With a cloud service provider (AWS, Azure, GCP)
  C. As a container (Docker, Kubernetes, OpenShift)
  D. On a Raspberry Pi (Model 4, Model 400, Model 5)
  E. As a dedicated hardware appliance (M-100, M-200, M-500, M-600)
  A. As a virtual machine (ESXi, Hyper-V, KVM)
  B. With a cloud service provider (AWS, Azure, GCP)
  E. As a dedicated hardware appliance (M-100, M-200, M-500, M-600)

  ---

  explanation:

  Explanation

  Panorama is Palo Alto Networks' centralized management solution for managing multiple firewalls. It supports multiple deployment options to suit different infrastructure needs. The valid deployment options are as follows:

  Why "As a virtual machine (ESXi, Hyper-V, KVM)" (Correct Answer A)?Panorama can be deployed as a virtual machine on hypervisors like VMware ESXi, Microsoft Hyper-V, and KVM. This is a common option for organizations that already

  utilize virtualized infrastructure.

  Why "With a cloud service provider (AWS, Azure, GCP)" (Correct Answer B)?Panorama is available for deployment in the public cloud on platforms like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform. This allows organizations to centrally

  manage firewalls deployed in cloud environments.

  Why "As a dedicated hardware appliance (M-100, M-200, M-500, M-600)" (Correct Answer E)? Panorama is available as a dedicated hardware appliance with different models (M-100, M-200, M-500, M-600) to cater to various performance

  and scalability requirements. This is ideal for organizations that prefer physical appliances.

  Why not "As a container (Docker, Kubernetes, OpenShift)" (Option C)?Panorama is not currently supported as a containerized deployment. Containers are more commonly used for lightweight and ephemeral services, whereas Panorama

  requires a robust and persistent deployment model.

  Why not "On a Raspberry Pi (Model 4, Model 400, Model 5)" (Option D)?Panorama cannot be deployed on low-powered hardware like Raspberry Pi. The system requirements for Panorama far exceed the capabilities of Raspberry Pi

  hardware.

• Question 4:

  Which initial action can a network security engineer take to prevent a malicious actor from using a file- sharing application for data exfiltration without impacting users who still need to use file-sharing applications?

  A. Use DNS Security to limit access to file-sharing applications based on job functions.
  B. Use App-ID to limit access to file-sharing applications based on job functions.
  C. Use DNS Security to block all file-sharing applications and uploading abilities.
  D. Use App-ID to block all file-sharing applications and uploading abilities.
  B. Use App-ID to limit access to file-sharing applications based on job functions.

  ---

  explanation:

  Explanation

  To prevent malicious actors from abusing file-sharing applications for data exfiltration, App-ID provides a granular approach to managing application traffic. Palo Alto Networks' App-ID is a technology that identifies applications traversing the network, regardless of port, protocol, encryption (SSL), or evasive tactics. By leveraging App-ID, security engineers can implement policies that restrict the use of specific applications or functionalities based on job functions, ensuring that only authorized users or groups can use file-sharing applications while blocking unauthorized or malicious usage. Here's why the options are evaluated this way: Option A:DNS Security focuses on identifying and blocking malicious domains. While it plays a critical role in preventing certain attacks (like command-and-control traffic), it is not effective for managing application usage. Hence, this is not the best approach. Option B (Correct):App-ID provides the ability to identify file-sharing applications (such as Dropbox, Google Drive, or OneDrive) and enforce policies to restrict their use. For example, you can create a security rule allowing file-sharing apps

  only for specific job functions, such as HR or marketing, while denying them for other users. This targeted approach ensures legitimate business needs are not disrupted, which aligns with the requirement of not impacting valid users.

  Option C:Blocking all file-sharing applications outright using DNS Security is a broad measure that will indiscriminately impact legitimate users. This does not meet the requirement of allowing specific users to continue using file-sharing

  applications.

  Option D:While App-ID can block file-sharing applications outright, doing so will prevent legitimate usage and is not aligned with the requirement to allow usage based on job functions. How to Implement the Solution (Using App-ID):

  Identify the relevant file-sharing applications using App-ID in Palo Alto Networks' predefined application database.

  Create security policies that allow these applications only for users or groups defined in your directory (e.g., Active Directory).

  Use custom App-ID filters or explicit rules to control specific functionalities of file-sharing applications, such as uploads or downloads.

  Monitor traffic to ensure that only authorized users are accessing the applications and that no malicious activity is occurring.

  References:

  Palo Alto Networks Admin Guide: Application Identification and Usage Policies.

  Best Practices for App-ID Configuration: https://docs.paloaltonetworks.com

• Question 5:

  What are the first two steps a customer should perform as they begin to understand and adopt Zero Trust principles? (Choose two)

  A. Understand which users, devices, infrastructure, applications, data, and services are part of the network or have access to it.
  B. Enable relevant Cloud-Delivered Security Services (CDSS) subscriptions to automatically protect the customer's environment from both internal and external threats.
  C. Map the transactions between users, applications, and data, then verify and inspect those transactions.
  D. Implement VM-Series NGFWs in the customer's public and private clouds to protect east-west traffic.
  A. Understand which users, devices, infrastructure, applications, data, and services are part of the network or have access to it.
  C. Map the transactions between users, applications, and data, then verify and inspect those transactions.

  ---

  explanation:

  Explanation

  Zero Trust principles revolve around minimizing trust in the network and verifying every interaction. To adopt Zero Trust, customers should start by gaining visibility and understanding the network and its transactions.

  A. Understand which users, devices, infrastructure, applications, data, and services are part of the network or have access to it.

  The first step in adopting Zero Trust is understanding the full scope of the network. Identifying users, devices, applications, and data is critical for building a comprehensive security strategy.

  C. Map the transactions between users, applications, and data, then verify and inspect those transactions.

  After identifying all assets, the next step is to map interactions and enforce verification and inspection of these transactions to ensure security. Why Other Options Are Incorrect

  B:Enabling CDSS subscriptions is important for protection but comes after foundational Zero Trust principles are established.

  D:Implementing VM-Series NGFWs is part of enforcing Zero Trust, but it is not the first step. Visibility and understanding come first.

  References:

  Palo Alto Networks Zero Trust Overview

• Question 6:

  What are two methods that a NGFW uses to determine if submitted credentials are valid corporate credentials? (Choose two.)

  A. Group mapping
  B. LDAP query
  C. Domain credential filter
  D. WMI client probing
  B. LDAP query
  C. Domain credential filter

  ---

  explanation:

  Explanation

  LDAP Query (Answer B):

  Palo Alto Networks NGFWs can query LDAP directories (such as Active Directory) to validate whether submitted credentials match the corporate directory.

  Domain Credential Filter (Answer C):

  The Domain Credential Filter feature ensures that submitted credentials are checked against valid corporate credentials, preventing credential misuse.

  Why Not A:

  Group mappingis used to identify user groups for policy enforcement but does not validate submitted credentials.

  Why Not D:

  WMI client probingis used for user identification but is not a method for validating submitted credentials. References from Palo Alto Networks Documentation:

  Credential Theft Prevention

• Question 7:

  Which two products can be integrated and managed by Strata Cloud Manager (SCM)? (Choose two)

  A. Prisma SD-WAN
  B. Prisma Cloud
  C. Cortex XDR
  D. VM-Series NGFW
  A. Prisma SD-WAN
  D. VM-Series NGFW

  ---

  explanation:

  Explanation

  Strata Cloud Manager (SCM) is Palo Alto Networks' centralized cloud-based management platform for managing network security solutions, including Prisma Access and Prisma SD-WAN. SCM can also integrate with VM-Series firewalls for managing virtualized NGFW deployments. Why A (Prisma SD-WAN) Is Correct SCM is the management interface for Prisma SD-WAN, enabling centralized orchestration, monitoring, and configuration of SD-WAN deployments. Why D (VM-Series NGFW) Is Correct SCM supports managing VM-Series NGFWs, providing centralized visibility and control for virtualized firewall deployments in cloud or on-premises environments. Why Other Options Are Incorrect B (Prisma Cloud):Prisma Cloud is a separate product for securing workloads in public cloud environments. It is not managed via SCM. C (Cortex XDR):Cortex XDR is a platform for endpoint detection and response (EDR). It is managed through its own console, not SCM.

  References: Palo Alto Networks Strata Cloud Manager Overview

• Question 8:

  What would make a customer choose an on-premises solution over a cloud-based SASE solution for their network?

  A. High growth phase with existing and planned mergers, and with acquisitions being integrated.
  B. Most employees and applications in close physical proximity in a geographic region.
  C. Hybrid work and cloud adoption at various locations that have different requirements per site.
  D. The need to enable business to securely expand its geographical footprint.
  B. Most employees and applications in close physical proximity in a geographic region.

  ---

  explanation:

  Explanation

  SASE (Secure Access Service Edge) is a cloud-based solution that combines networking and security capabilities to address modern enterprise needs. However, there are scenarios where an on-premises solution is more appropriate.

  A. High growth phase with existing and planned mergers, and with acquisitions being integrated.

  This scenario typically favors a SASE solution since it provides flexible, scalable, and centralized security that is ideal for integrating newly acquired businesses.

  B. Most employees and applications in close physical proximity in a geographic region.

  This scenario supports the choice of an on-premises solution. When employees and applications are concentrated in a single geographic region, traditional on-premises firewalls and centralized security appliances provide cost-effective and

  efficient protection without the need for distributed, cloud-based infrastructure.

  C. Hybrid work and cloud adoption at various locations that have different requirements per site.

  This scenario aligns with a SASE solution. Hybrid work and varying site requirements are better addressed by SASE's ability to provide consistent security policies regardless of location.

  D. The need to enable business to securely expand its geographical footprint.

  Expanding into new geographic areas benefits from the scalability and flexibility of a SASE solution, which can deliver consistent security globally without requiring physical appliances at each location. Key Takeaways:

  On-premises solutions are ideal for geographically concentrated networks with minimal cloud adoption.

  SASE is better suited for hybrid work, cloud adoption, and distributed networks.

  References:

  Palo Alto Networks SASE Overview

  On-Premises vs. SASE Deployment Guide

• Question 9:

  A customer sees unusually high DNS traffic to an unfamiliar IP address. Which Palo Alto Networks Cloud-Delivered Security Services (CDSS) subscription should be enabled to further inspect this traffic?

  A. Advanced Threat Prevention
  B. Advanced WildFire
  C. Advanced URL Filtering
  D. Advanced DNS Security
  D. Advanced DNS Security

  ---

  explanation:

  Explanation

  The appropriate CDSS subscription to inspect and mitigate suspicious DNS traffic isAdvanced DNS Security . Here's why:

  Advanced DNS Securityprotects against DNS-based threats, including domain generation algorithms (DGA), DNS tunneling (often used for data exfiltration), and malicious domains used in attacks. It leverages machine learning to detect and

  block DNS traffic associated with command-and-control servers or other malicious activities. In this case, unusually high DNS traffic to an unfamiliar IP address is likely indicative of a DNS-based attack or malware activity, making this the

  most suitable service.

  Option A:Advanced Threat Prevention (ATP) focuses on identifying and blocking sophisticated threats in network traffic, such as exploits and evasive malware. While it complements DNS Security, it does not specialize in analyzing DNS-

  specific traffic patterns.

  Option B:Advanced WildFire focuses on detecting and preventing file-based threats, such as malware delivered via email attachments or web downloads. It does not provide specific protection for DNS- related anomalies.

  Option C:Advanced URL Filtering is designed to prevent access to malicious or inappropriate websites based on their URLs. While DNS may be indirectly involved in resolving malicious websites, this service does not directly inspect DNS

  traffic patterns for threats.

  Option D (Correct):Advanced DNS Security specifically addresses DNS-based threats. By enabling this service, the customer can detect and block DNS queries to malicious domains and investigate anomalous DNS behavior like the high

  traffic observed in this scenario.

  How to Enable Advanced DNS Security:

  Ensure the firewall has a valid Advanced DNS Security license.

  Navigate to Objects > Security Profiles > Anti-Spyware .

  Enable DNS Security under the "DNS Signatures" section.

  Apply the Anti-Spyware profile to the relevant Security Policy to enforce DNS Security.

  References:

  Palo Alto Networks Advanced DNS Security Overview: https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/dns- security

  Best Practices for DNS Security Configuration.

• Question 10:

  Device-ID can be used in which three policies? (Choose three.)

  A. Security
  B. Decryption
  C. Policy-based forwarding (PBF)
  D. SD-WAN
  E. Quality of Service (QoS)
  A. Security
  C. Policy-based forwarding (PBF)
  E. Quality of Service (QoS)

  ---

  explanation:

  Explanation

  Device-ID is a feature in Palo Alto Networks firewalls that identifies devices based on their unique attributes (e.g., MAC addresses, device type, operating system). Device-ID can be used in several policy types to provide granular control.

  Here's how it applies to each option:

  Option A: Security

  Device-ID can be used in Security policies to enforce rules based on the device type or identity. For example, you can create policies that allow or block traffic for specific device types (e.g., IoT devices).

  This is correct.

  Option B: Decryption

  Device-ID cannot be used in decryption policies. Decryption policies are based on traffic types, certificates, and other SSL/TLS attributes, not device attributes.

  This is incorrect.

  Option C: Policy-based forwarding (PBF)

  Device-ID can be used in PBF policies to control the forwarding of traffic based on the identified device. For example, you can route traffic from certain device types through specific ISPs or VPN tunnels.

  This is correct.

  Option D: SD-WAN

  SD-WAN policies use metrics such as path quality (e.g., latency, jitter) and application information for traffic steering. Device-ID is not a criterion used in SD-WAN policies.

  This is incorrect.

  Option E: Quality of Service (QoS)

  Device-ID can be used in QoS policies to apply traffic shaping or bandwidth control for specific devices. For example, you can prioritize or limit bandwidth for traffic originating from IoT devices or specific endpoints.

  This is correct.

  References:

  Palo Alto Networks documentation on Device-ID