What is an error called that causes a system to be vulnerable because of the environment in which it is
installed?

A.
Configuration error

B.
Environmental error

C.
Access validation error

D.
Exceptional condition handling error

Explanation:
Environmental errors include utility failure, service outage, natural disasters, or neighboring hazards. Any issue
with the environment in which a system is installed is known as an environmental error.
Maintaining appropriate temperature and humidity is important in any facility, especially facilities with computer
systems. Improper levels of either can cause damage to computers and electrical devices. High humidity can
cause corrosion, and low humidity can cause excessive static electricity. This static electricity can short out
devices, cause the loss of information, or provide amusing entertainment for unsuspecting employees. Lower
temperatures can cause mechanisms to slow or stop, and higher temperatures can cause devices to use too
much fan power and eventually shut down.
Incorrect Answers:
A: A configuration error is a problem caused by the configuration of the settings in a system, not the
environment in which the system is installed.
C: An access validation error is a problem caused a user not having the correct permissions or access rights to
the system. An access validation error is not caused by the environment in which the system is installed.
D: An exceptional condition handling error is a problem caused by the software code of the system, not the
environment in which the system is installed.

Harris, Shon, All In One CISSP Exam Guide, 6th Edition, McGraw-Hill, 2013, p. 466