Which list represents the five or six steps of an incident response lifecycle commonly referenced in frameworks?

Which list represents the five or six steps of an incident response lifecycle commonly referenced in frameworks?

• A. Preparation, Identification, Containment, Eradication, Recovery, and Lessons Learned
• B. Detection, Containment, Eradication
• C. Planning, Execution, Review
• D. Prevention, Detection, Response, Recovery, Documentation, Evaluation

Answer: (A)

The question tests understanding of the incident response lifecycle as described in mainstream cybersecurity frameworks. The sequence that includes Preparation, Identification (detection of the incident), Containment, Eradication, Recovery, and Lessons Learned reflects the typical six-stage model used to guide how organizations respond to incidents. Preparation sets the stage with plans, training, and roles so response can begin quickly. Identification turns alerts into confirmed incidents so the team knows what they’re dealing with. Containment aims to limit the damage by stopping the incident from spreading. Eradication removes the root cause of the incident and eliminates threats. Recovery focuses on restoring services and normal operations. Finally, Lessons Learned (or post-incident review) feeds back insights to improve defenses and response for future incidents. Some frameworks may combine Detection with Identification or Containment with Eradication, but the overall flow and the inclusion of all these stages remain the same. Other options miss essential parts or use terms that don’t align with the standard lifecycle. For example, omitting Preparation leaves no foundation for a coordinated response, while missing Lessons Learned bypasses the critical step of improving defenses after an incident. Using terms like Prevention, Documentation, or a simplified three-step flow doesn’t capture the full, widely referenced progression.

The question tests understanding of the incident response lifecycle as described in mainstream cybersecurity frameworks. The sequence that includes Preparation, Identification (detection of the incident), Containment, Eradication, Recovery, and Lessons Learned reflects the typical six-stage model used to guide how organizations respond to incidents. Preparation sets the stage with plans, training, and roles so response can begin quickly. Identification turns alerts into confirmed incidents so the team knows what they’re dealing with. Containment aims to limit the damage by stopping the incident from spreading. Eradication removes the root cause of the incident and eliminates threats. Recovery focuses on restoring services and normal operations. Finally, Lessons Learned (or post-incident review) feeds back insights to improve defenses and response for future incidents. Some frameworks may combine Detection with Identification or Containment with Eradication, but the overall flow and the inclusion of all these stages remain the same.

Other options miss essential parts or use terms that don’t align with the standard lifecycle. For example, omitting Preparation leaves no foundation for a coordinated response, while missing Lessons Learned bypasses the critical step of improving defenses after an incident. Using terms like Prevention, Documentation, or a simplified three-step flow doesn’t capture the full, widely referenced progression.