Network Defense Essentials (NDE) Practice Exam

Enabling the UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) port on routers is typically not considered a best practice for securing the IoT environment. UPnP is designed to facilitate easier network connectivity for devices; however, it can introduce significant security risks. Vulnerabilities in UPnP can be exploited by attackers, allowing them unauthorized access to devices on a network. This is especially concerning in IoT environments, where many devices may have insufficient security controls.

In contrast, regularly updating software and firmware, using strong and unique passwords for devices, and monitoring network traffic for unusual activity are widely recognized as essential security practices. Regular updates help to patch vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers, ensuring the devices are running the latest security features and fixes. Strong, unique passwords defend against unauthorized access, reducing the likelihood of breaches. Monitoring network traffic assists in detecting any anomalies which may indicate malicious activity, thus helping to proactively mitigate potential threats.

Together, these practices contribute significantly to a more secure IoT environment, whereas enabling UPnP can compromise security.