CertMaster CE Security+ Domain 4.0 Security Operations Practice Exam

The correct choice is compensating controls, as this term specifically refers to alternative measures implemented to reduce the risk associated with a security vulnerability when direct remediation—like fixing the vulnerability—is not feasible. Compensating controls are designed to provide equivalent protection or to lessen the impact of the risk, thus improving the overall security posture despite the presence of an unaddressed vulnerability.

For instance, if a specific software vulnerability cannot be patched immediately, a compensating control might involve implementing additional monitoring measures or enhancing network segmentation to prevent exploitation of that flaw. This allows an organization to continue operating securely while working towards a long-term solution.

The other options, while relevant in a security context, do not align as well with the notion of mitigating risk when direct elimination of a vulnerability is not possible. Fixing controls more directly implies implementing fixes or adjustments rather than providing an alternative risk management strategy. Risk acceptance involves acknowledging a risk without any specific measures put in place, which does not actively mitigate the risk. Documentation serves to record processes and findings but does not in itself address vulnerabilities. Thus, compensating controls is the most accurate and appropriate remediation practice in the scenario described.