CompTIA Security+ PBQ Practice | SY0-701

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PBQ Simulation

Configure Firewall ACL

Web Server WS-PROD-01 • Configure rules 2, 4, and 5

#DirProtoSourceDestinationPortAction
1INTCPAny192.168.1.10443
ALLOW
2INTCP10.0.1.0/24192.168.1.1022
3INTCPAny192.168.1.1080
ALLOW
4OUTUDP192.168.1.1010.0.1.553
5INICMP10.0.1.0/24192.168.1.10*
6INAnyAnyAny*
DENY
3 configured3 pending
AI Tutor
Why are rules 2, 4, and 5 highlighted?
TutorThose rules are incomplete—they need an action (ALLOW or DENY) configured.
Should I allow SSH on rule 2?
TutorConsider: Is 10.0.1.0/24 a trusted source? That's your admin subnet. What's the risk if you deny vs allow?
What about the DNS rule?
TutorRule 4 is outbound to your DNS server. The web server needs to resolve hostnames. Think about what happens if it can't reach DNS.

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The CertGuide PBQs were almost exactly the same as the ones I saw on the exam. As soon as I saw the PBQs I got on test day I knew I was ready.

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The AI tutor really teaches the PBQs where other services just give you practice and don't explain anything. I really enjoyed this feature of the site.

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Although I was skeptical, the tutor was actually very helpful. I was able to fully understand the concepts behind PBQs. I think it is worth the cost just for the PBQ function alone.

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Kody V.
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The PBQs are pretty accurate for the exam. Way better practice than YouTube or paper PBQs you get with other sites. Also, the tutor is really helpful.

JB
Jimmy B.
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I don't know where I would be without the CertGuide PBQs. Honestly the best tool for CompTIA simulation practice. If you are serious about passing, this is the only site for you.

AX
Alyeah X.
Verified

The PBQs are great and really a powerful tool for passing Security+. I really learned so much from doing the PBQ simulations. Do every single one a few times and you will be ready!

JP
Jack P.
Verified

CertGuide does an excellent job of capturing the nuance of the exam. The PBQ practice is quite intuitive and helped me to apply my experience to the context of Security+.

JG
Jeremiah G.
Verified

The CertGuide PBQs were almost exactly the same as the ones I saw on the exam. As soon as I saw the PBQs I got on test day I knew I was ready.

CS
Caleb S.
Verified

The AI tutor really teaches the PBQs where other services just give you practice and don't explain anything. I really enjoyed this feature of the site.

LA
Latoya A.
Verified

Although I was skeptical, the tutor was actually very helpful. I was able to fully understand the concepts behind PBQs. I think it is worth the cost just for the PBQ function alone.

KV
Kody V.
Verified

The PBQs are pretty accurate for the exam. Way better practice than YouTube or paper PBQs you get with other sites. Also, the tutor is really helpful.

JB
Jimmy B.
Verified

I don't know where I would be without the CertGuide PBQs. Honestly the best tool for CompTIA simulation practice. If you are serious about passing, this is the only site for you.

AX
Alyeah X.
Verified

The PBQs are great and really a powerful tool for passing Security+. I really learned so much from doing the PBQ simulations. Do every single one a few times and you will be ready!

JP
Jack P.
Verified

CertGuide does an excellent job of capturing the nuance of the exam. The PBQ practice is quite intuitive and helped me to apply my experience to the context of Security+.

JG
Jeremiah G.
Verified

Understanding PBQs

What Are Performance-Based Questions?

Performance-based questions (PBQs) are interactive simulations that test hands-on skills. Instead of picking A, B, C, or D, you complete actual tasks like configuring a firewall, analyzing a log file, or setting up access controls.

The Security+ SY0-701 exam includes approximately 4-5 PBQs out of 90 total questions. They appear at the beginning of the exam and typically take 5-10 minutes each.

PBQs are worth more than regular questions. Skipping them or guessing randomly can drop your score significantly.

Common Questions

Q1

How many PBQs are on the Security+ exam?

The Security+ SY0-701 exam typically includes 4-5 performance-based questions out of 90 total questions. They carry significantly more weight in scoring—often 2-3x that of regular multiple choice questions.

How many PBQs are on the Security+ exam?

The Security+ SY0-701 exam typically includes 4-5 performance-based questions out of 90 total questions. They carry significantly more weight in scoring—often 2-3x that of regular multiple choice questions.

Should I skip PBQs on the Security+ exam?

Many test-takers skip PBQs initially to answer multiple choice questions first, then return with remaining time. This is a valid strategy, but only if you've practiced enough to complete them efficiently.

What types of PBQs are on Security+?

Common PBQ types include firewall configuration, log analysis, network diagram analysis, PKI/certificate troubleshooting, access control setup, wireless security configuration, and cryptography scenarios.

How long should I spend on each PBQ?

Plan for 5-10 minutes per PBQ. With 4-5 PBQs, that's 20-50 minutes of your 90-minute exam. Practice until you can complete each simulation type in under 8 minutes.

Are PBQs harder than multiple choice?

PBQs test applied knowledge rather than recall, which many find more challenging. However, if you've done hands-on practice, they can actually be easier because there's less ambiguity.

What are performance-based questions?

Performance-based questions (PBQs) are interactive simulations that test hands-on skills. Instead of picking A, B, C, or D, you complete actual tasks like configuring a firewall or analyzing logs.

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