Which of the following is a notification that an unusual condition exists and should be investigated?

A.
Alert

B.
Trend

C.
Alarm

D.
Trap

Explanation:
We need to look carefully at the wording of the question to determine the answer. This question is asking
about an “unusual condition” that should be investigated. There are different levels of alerts from Critical
to Warning to Information only.
An Alarm would be triggered by a serious definite problem that needs resolving urgently. An “unusual
condition” probably wouldn’t trigger an alarm; it is more likely to trigger an Alert.
Incorrect Answers:
B: A trend signifies the ongoing status of something. An “unusual condition” may or may not change the
trend whereas an alert is likely to be triggered.
C: An Alarm would be triggered by a serious definite problem that needs resolving urgently. An “unusual
condition” probably wouldn’t trigger an alarm; it is more likely to trigger an Alert.
D: A trap is something that is triggered by an event that meets the conditions to trigger to trap. An
“unusual condition” is unlikely to trigger a trap whereas an alert is likely to be triggered.

Dulaney, Emmett and Chuck Eastton, CompTIA Security+ Study Guide, 6th Edition, Sybex, Indianapolis,
2014, pp. 69, 470