312-50V13 Question #541: Real Exam Question with Answer & Explanation

Question

A sophisticated attacker targets your web server with the intent to execute a Denial of Service (DoS) attack. His strategy involves a unique mixture of TCP SYN, UDP, and ICMP floods, using 'r' packets per second. Your server, reinforced with advanced security measures, can handle 'h' packets per second before it starts showing signs of strain. If 'r' surpasses 'h', it overwhelms the server, causing it to become unresponsive. In a peculiar pattern, the attacker selects 'r' as a composite number and 'h' as a prime number, making the attack detection more challenging. Considering 'r=2010' and different values for 'h', which of the following scenarios would potentially cause the server to falter?

Options

• Ah=1999 (prime): Despite the attacker's packet flood, the server can handle these requests,
• Bh=2003 (prime): The server can manage more packets than the attacker is sending, hence it
• Ch=1993 (prime): Despite being less than 'r', the server's prime number capacity keeps it barely
• Dh=1987 (prime): The attacker's packet rate exceeds the server's capacity, causing potential

Explanation

Explanation

Option D is correct because h=1987 is less than r=2010, meaning the attacker's packet rate exceeds the server's handling capacity (r > h), which directly satisfies the condition for the server to become overwhelmed and unresponsive. Options A (h=1999) and B (h=2003) are incorrect because both values are greater than r=2010... wait - h=1999 < 2010, so let me clarify: Option B (h=2003) is incorrect because 2003 > 2010 is false - 2003 < 2010, but the question states the server can manage more, which is factually wrong. Actually, the key distinction is that Option D (h=1987) is the smallest prime listed, making it the furthest below r=2010 and therefore the scenario where the server is most clearly overwhelmed. Options A (h=1999) and C (h=1993) also fall below r=2010, but their answer descriptions misleadingly claim the server survives - only Option D's description accurately states the server falters due to the packet rate exceeding capacity.

🧠 Memory Tip: Remember the simple rule - if r > h, the server fails. Think of it as "Rate beats Handling = Havoc." Always compare the two numbers directly; the prime/composite detail is a red herring to test whether you stay focused on the core inequality.

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