CREST Practitioner Security Analyst (CPSA) Practice

What is the function of the Server Message Block protocol?

1. To provide email services

2. To facilitate file sharing and network printing

3. To manage network devices

4. To serve HTTP requests

The correct answer is: To facilitate file sharing and network printing

The function of the Server Message Block (SMB) protocol is primarily to facilitate file sharing and network printing. SMB is a network file sharing protocol that allows applications to read and write to files and request services from server programs in a computer network. It enables users to share files and printers over the network, which is essential in environments where resources need to be accessed by multiple users or devices. SMB operates on top of the TCP/IP protocol and provides a mechanism for clients to communicate with servers in a standardized way, allowing for tasks such as file access, sharing, and managing printers remotely. This functionality is critical in enterprise environments that rely on networked systems for collaboration and resource management. The other options, such as providing email services, managing network devices, or serving HTTP requests, do not align with the primary purpose of the SMB protocol. While other protocols do serve those functions—like SMTP for email, SNMP for network management, and HTTP for web requests—SMB is specifically designed for file and printer sharing.