Windows 2000 uses which of the following as the primary mechanism for authenticating users
requesting access to a network?

A.
Kerberos

B.
Hash functions

C.
Public key certificates

D.
SESAME

Explanation:
While Kerberos is the primary mechanism, system administrators may also use alternative
authentication services running under the Security Support Provider Interface (SSPI). Answer hash
functions, are used for digital signature implementations. Answer SESAME is incorrect. It is the
Secure European System for Applications in a Multivendor Environment. SESAME performs similar
functions to Kerberos, but uses public key cryptography to distribute the secret keys. Answer “Public
key certificates” is incorrect, since public key certificates are not used in the Windows 2000 primary
authentication approach.