Top 30+ Cyber Security Interview Questions and Answers

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Cyber security is the practice of protecting computers and networks from threats. It began in the 1970s when Bob Thomas made the first computer worm. Ray Tomlinson, who created email, also built the first antivirus. Over time, cyber security became a key part of banking, healthcare and government systems. Today, people work as analysts, ethical hackers, and security engineers. If you are planning to enter this field, you need to be ready for the interviews. Here are 30+ cyber security interview questions to help you prepare.

Fun Fact: The global cyber security market is expected to grow to $657 billion by 2030, rising at a steady rate of 12.8% each year from 2022 to 2030.

Basic Cyber Security Interview Questions

Here are some common cyber security basic interview questions to help you understand the core concepts.

1. What is cyber security and why is it important today?

Cyber security is the practice of protecting systems, networks, and data from digital attacks. With cloud computing, remote work, and IoT devices growing, threats are more common and advanced. 

A single breach can expose personal data, shut down services, or cause major financial loss. That is why every business and user needs strong cyber protection.

2. What is the difference between a threat, a vulnerability, and a risk?

A threat is anything that can cause harm – like a hacker or malware. 

A vulnerability is a weakness, like outdated software. 

A risk is the chance a threat will exploit a vulnerability. 

For example, using weak passwords is a vulnerability. A phishing email is a threat. The risk is the password being stolen.

3. Explain the CIA triad with real-world examples.

The CIA triad stands for Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability.

Confidentiality means only the right people can access data – like passwords protecting email.

Integrity means the data stays accurate – like not letting someone change grades in a school database.

Availability means systems work when needed – like hospitals accessing patient files during emergencies.

4. What is a firewall and how does it work?

A firewall is a security system that blocks or allows traffic based on rules. It can be software or hardware. It acts like a gate between your device and the internet. For example, it can block suspicious incoming traffic or prevent access to harmful websites.

5. What is the role of DNS in cyber security?

DNS translates domain names into IP addresses. It is like a phonebook for the internet. Attackers can target DNS to redirect users to fake sites. That’s why DNS security tools like DNSSEC are important to stop tampering.

6. What is a VPN and how does it protect online privacy?

A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet. It hides your IP address and protects data from being seen by hackers, especially on public Wi-Fi.

7. How is hashing different from encryption?

Hashing turns data into a fixed-length value and is one-way. Encryption scrambles data and can be reversed with a key. Hashing is used in password storage. Encryption is used in secure communication.

Note: Interview questions cyber security often include topics like threats, vulnerabilities, encryption, firewalls, and real-world attack scenarios.

Cyber Security Interview Questions for Freshers

These interview questions on cyber security are great for freshers who want to build a strong foundation and crack their first job interview.

8. What is phishing and how can it be prevented?

Phishing is when someone tricks you into sharing sensitive data using fake emails or messages. These often look like they come from trusted sources. To prevent phishing, never click unknown links. Use spam filters. Always double-check email addresses. I also report suspicious emails to my IT team.

9. What is social engineering in cyber security?

It is a method where attackers manipulate people into giving away confidential data. This could be through phone calls, fake surveys, or posing as coworkers. It targets human error more than technical flaws. Awareness training helps reduce this risk.

10. Explain the difference between black hat, white hat, and grey hat hackers.

Black hat hackers break into systems illegally. They steal or destroy data. White hats are ethical hackers. They help find and fix security issues. Grey hats fall in between. They may hack without permission but do not cause harm.

11. What are the types of cyber security attacks you should know?

Common types include malware, ransomware, phishing, denial-of-service (DoS), SQL injection, and man-in-the-middle attacks. These are used to steal data, crash systems, or gain control.

12. What are honeypots and why are they used?

Honeypots are fake systems set up to attract hackers. They help security teams study attacker behavior and detect threats early. It is like bait to catch cyber criminals.

13. What is a brute-force attack and how do you avoid it?

A brute-force attack is when someone tries many passwords until one works. It is common but avoidable. I use strong, long passwords. I also turn on two-factor authentication. Some systems lock accounts after too many failed tries. That also helps stop brute-force attempts.

Cyber Security Interview Questions for Experienced

Let’s go through some advanced cyber security job interview questions that are often asked for mid to senior-level roles.

14. How do you perform a vulnerability assessment vs. penetration testing?

A vulnerability assessment scans systems to find known flaws. It reports issues but does not test how they can be exploited. Tools like Nessus or OpenVAS are used. Penetration testing goes further. It simulates real attacks to check if vulnerabilities can be used to gain access. I usually start with a scan, then attempt controlled exploits in pen testing.

15. What is the difference between HIDS and NIDS?

HIDS (Host-Based Intrusion Detection System) runs on individual machines. It checks file integrity and system behavior. NIDS (Network-Based Intrusion Detection System) monitors traffic across the network. It detects attacks like port scanning or spoofing. HIDS gives deep insight into a single system. NIDS offers a wider view of network-level threats.

16. How do you prevent and detect SQL Injection in real applications?

I use parameterized queries or stored procedures. Input validation is key. Never trust user data. I also scan code with tools like SQLMap or Burp Suite. Monitoring unexpected database behavior helps in detection. Web Application Firewalls can block known patterns too.

17. What are polymorphic viruses and how do you detect them?

Polymorphic viruses change their code every time they spread. This tricks basic signature-based tools. To detect them, I use behavior-based detection and heuristic analysis. Sandboxing can also help by running the file in a controlled environment.

18. Explain forward secrecy and how it improves security.

Forward secrecy means session keys are temporary and not linked to long-term keys. Even if a server’s key is stolen, past sessions stay safe. It uses ephemeral key exchange methods like Diffie-Hellman. This limits what attackers can access if they intercept encrypted traffic.

19. How do you respond to a DDoS attack in a real-world scenario?

First, I check traffic patterns to confirm the DDoS. Then, I reroute traffic using a CDN or cloud-based protection like Cloudflare. I also rate-limit connections and block known bad IPs. Post-attack, I review logs and update firewall rules to avoid repeat hits.

Scenario Based Cyber Security Interview Questions

This section covers practical interview questions cyber security professionals may face to test how they handle real situations.

20. A user reports a ransomware screen. What are your first 3 steps?

First, I isolate the infected system from the network. This stops it from spreading. Next, I inform the security team and preserve logs or memory for analysis. Then, I check backups to plan recovery. Paying the ransom is never the first choice.

21. You notice unusual outbound traffic from a server. What would you do?

I review logs and recent changes on that server. Then I check for new or unknown processes. If needed, I run memory or malware scans. If the traffic is malicious, I block the destination and alert the team. Traffic captures like PCAP help confirm what is happening.

22. How would you handle a phishing email reported by a team member?

I thank the user and ask for the email headers. I check if others got the same message. Then I block the sender and links at the mail gateway. If any user clicked, I scan their machine and reset their credentials.

23. Your IDS triggered a high-severity alert. How do you investigate?

I start by checking the alert source, type, and time. Then I validate it with logs from firewalls or endpoint tools. I compare it with known threat signatures. If it is real, I contain the threat and follow incident response steps. If it is false, I adjust detection rules.

Role-Specific Cyber Security Interview Questions

This section includes focused questions about cyber security based on specific job roles like analyst, engineer, and intern.

Cyber Security Analyst Interview Questions

24. What tools do you use for threat detection and incident response?

I use tools like Splunk and IBM QRadar for threat detection and log correlation. For incident response, I rely on CrowdStrike, Carbon Black, and open-source tools like Velociraptor. Wireshark and Suricata help with packet-level analysis. I also use VirusTotal for malware checks.

25. How do you prioritize multiple alerts from a SIEM tool?

I first look at severity and confidence scores. Then I check asset value – is the system business-critical? I also consider threat intelligence. If known malicious IPs are involved, I act fast. Alerts from key systems like domain controllers take priority over low-risk endpoints.

26. How do you track and report false positives?

I tag false positives in the SIEM and document them. I review the rule logic and tweak thresholds if needed. I also maintain a feedback loop with the SOC team. Tracking false positives helps improve rule accuracy and reduces alert fatigue.

27. What metrics do you use to measure the success of a SOC?

I track metrics like Mean Time to Detect (MTTD), Mean Time to Respond (MTTR), and false positive rate. We also watch alert volume, incident closure rate, and SLA compliance. Quality of root cause analysis and reporting matters too.

Cyber Security Engineer Interview Questions

28. How do you design a secure network from scratch?

I begin with segmentation – separating user, server, and DMZ zones. I use firewalls, VLANs, and access control lists. Every zone gets its own policies. I add IDS/IPS, set up logging, and apply least privilege rules from day one. VPN access is restricted and monitored.

29. What are the key differences between IDS and IPS?

IDS (Intrusion Detection System) monitors traffic and sends alerts. IPS (Intrusion Prevention System) can block the traffic in real time. IDS is passive; IPS is active. IDS is better for forensics. IPS helps prevent damage immediately.

30. How do you implement least privilege access across an enterprise?

First, I classify roles and access needs. Then I assign permissions using the principle of “need to know.” I remove local admin rights for users. I use RBAC (Role-Based Access Control) and review permissions regularly. Privileged access is logged and monitored closely.

31. Describe a time when you had to harden a system or application.

I once had to harden a web server before a product launch. I disabled unused ports and services. I applied the latest patches and set up a WAF. I restricted SSH access and enforced strong password policies. I ran vulnerability scans before sign-off.

Cyber Security Intern Interview Questions

32. What are the top three things you have learned about securing systems?

First, no system is ever fully safe. Second, strong passwords and MFA stop many attacks. Third, regular updates are key. I learned that even small mistakes can open big risks. I also learned to think like an attacker to spot weak points.

33. How do you stay updated with the latest cyber threats?

I follow threat intel blogs like Krebs on Security and The Hacker News. I also subscribe to the CISA and NIST bulletins. I use LinkedIn to follow security experts. Sometimes I test tools in a virtual lab just to understand new techniques.

34. What is the difference between active and passive attacks?

An active attack tries to change or damage data. It disrupts operations. A passive attack only watches and collects information. Eavesdropping on a network is passive. Changing files or injecting malware is active.

35. Explain the purpose of two-factor authentication in simple terms.

Two-factor authentication means using two things to log in. Like a password and a phone code. Even if someone knows your password, they can’t get in without the second step. It adds a layer of safety to your accounts. I use it for everything important.

Other Important Cyber Security Interview Questions

Here are some extra questions that often come up in cyber security interviews and can help you cover any gaps in your preparation.

Computer Security Interview Questions

These are some commonly asked computer security interview questions.

1. What is system hardening and why is it important?
2. How does antivirus software work?
3. What is a botnet and how is it controlled?
4. What are cookies and can they pose a security risk?
5. How does a man-in-the-middle attack work?

Information Security Interview Questions

1. What is information assurance and how is it different from information security?
2. What is data integrity and why does it matter?
3. How do you handle data classification in a company?
4. What is access control and what types exist?
5. What are the risks of shadow IT?

Data Security Interview Questions

1. How do you secure data at rest vs. in transit?
2. What is tokenization and how is it used?
3. What is the principle of data minimization?
4. How do you securely delete sensitive data?
5. What is the role of encryption in data privacy laws?

Web Security Interview Questions

1. What is XSS and how do you prevent it?
2. What is CSRF and how does it differ from XSS?
3. What are the OWASP Top 10 vulnerabilities?
4. How do you secure cookies for a web application?
5. What are secure headers and why are they used?

IT Security Interview Questions

1. How would you secure an office Wi-Fi network?
2. What is patch management and why is it critical?
3. What are common logs you check during an investigation?
4. How do you handle insider threats?
5. What is network segmentation and how does it help?

Cyber Security Interview Questions Asked by Top IT Firms

Now, here are real interview questions cyber security candidates have faced at top IT firms during their selection process.

Cognizant Cyber Security Interview Questions

1. What is the difference between IDS and a firewall?
2. How do you secure cloud data?
3. What is SSL and how does it work?
4. Explain the difference between symmetric and asymmetric encryption.
5. What is ARP poisoning and how do you prevent it?

TCS Cyber Security Interview Questions

1. What are the layers of network security?
2. What tools are used for packet sniffing?
3. How would you respond to a brute-force login attempt?
4. What is the difference between MAC and IP spoofing?
5. What is a session hijack and how is it mitigated?

HCL Cyber Security Interview Questions

1. Explain the difference between HTTPS and HTTP.
2. What is the purpose of a digital certificate?
3. How do you manage user roles in Active Directory?
4. What are common vulnerabilities in mobile devices?
5. How does VPN encryption work?

Cyber Security in SDLC Infosys Questions

1. How do you integrate security into the software development lifecycle?
2. What is threat modeling and how do you apply it?
3. What are secure coding practices you follow?
4. What is a security code review?
5. How do you handle security in DevOps?

Note: You can also find cyber security in SDLC Infosys questions and answers on AmbitionBox to get more insights from real interview experiences.

Cyber Security Viva Questions

Here are common viva questions asked in cyber security exams to test your basic understanding and quick thinking.

1. Define cyber security in one sentence.

Cyber security is the protection of systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access or attacks.

2. What is the purpose of using encryption?

Encryption keeps data private by converting it into unreadable code. Only people with the right key can read it. It protects messages, files, passwords, and transactions from being stolen or changed during transfer or storage.

3. What are the basic components of a secure network?

A secure network includes firewalls, strong passwords, updated software, antivirus tools, and access control. Monitoring tools, VPNs, and encrypted communication also play a role in keeping data safe.

4. What is the difference between a virus and a worm?

A virus needs a host file to spread and activates when that file runs. A worm spreads by itself across systems or networks. Worms can slow down networks. Viruses often corrupt or delete files.

How to Prepare for Cyber Security Interview Questions?

Preparing for cyber security interviews need updated knowledge and hands-on practice with real tools. Here are some tips you can follow:

• Understand basic and advanced concepts like firewalls, threats, and encryption
• Practice with tools like Wireshark, Burp Suite, and Splunk
• Read recent breach case studies to understand attack patterns
• Prepare answers to scenario-based questions
• Review OWASP Top 10 vulnerabilities
• Keep answers short, clear, and technical
• Stay calm and think out loud during technical rounds

Wrapping Up

So, these are the 30+ most commonly asked cyber security interview questions and answers. Go through each one, practice real scenarios, and stay updated with current threats. Confidence comes with preparation. 

Want to explore top IT job roles, including cyber security jobs? Check out Hirist – a great place to find openings in the tech field.

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