Firewalls, Physical Barriers, and Reducing Access are examples of which types of control?

The correct answer identifies Firewalls, Physical Barriers, and Reducing Access as examples of avoidance controls. This classification is based on the primary goal of these control measures, which is to prevent security incidents from occurring.

Avoidance strategies involve eliminating the risk by reducing the potential for threats or vulnerabilities. Firewalls act as a barrier to block unauthorized access to networks, while physical barriers, such as locks or security systems, deter physical entry into secure areas. Additionally, reducing access refers to limiting permissions to necessary personnel, which minimizes exposure to potential threats.

In contrast, mitigation controls focus on reducing the impact of risks after they have been identified, rather than eliminating the risk entirely. Transfer controls involve shifting the impact of a risk to another party, often through insurance or outsourcing. Acceptance controls acknowledge the risk exists but decide to take no further action, often due to cost-benefit considerations. Thus, these strategies differ significantly in their risk management approaches compared to avoidance, which is aimed directly at preventing threats from materializing in the first place.