What communication protocol does Harmony Endpoint management use to communicate with the
management server?
A
Explanation:
To determine the correct communication protocol used by Harmony Endpoint management to
communicate with the management server, we need to clarify what "Harmony Endpoint
management" refers to in the context of Check Point's Harmony Endpoint solution. The provided
document, "CP_R81.20_Harmony_Endpoint_Server_AdminGuide.pdf," offers detailed insights into
the architecture and communication protocols used within this ecosystem. Let’s break this down
step-by-step based on the official documentation.
Step 1: Understanding "Harmony Endpoint Management"
Harmony Endpoint is Check Point’s endpoint security solution, encompassing both client-side
components (Endpoint Security Clients) and management-side components (SmartEndpoint console
and Endpoint Security Management Server). The phrase "Harmony Endpoint management" in the
question is ambiguous—it could refer to the management console (SmartEndpoint), the
management server itself, or even the client-side management components communicating with the
server. However, in security contexts, "management" typically implies the administrative or console
component responsible for overseeing the system, which in this case aligns with the SmartEndpoint
console.
The document outlines the architecture on page 23 under "Endpoint Security Architecture":
SmartEndpoint: "A Check Point SmartConsole application to deploy, monitor and configure Endpoint
Security clients and policies."
Endpoint Security Management Server: "Includes the Endpoint Security policy management and
databases. It communicates with endpoint clients to update their components, policies, and
protection data."
Endpoint Security Clients: "Application installed on end-user computers to monitor security status
and enforce security policies."
Given the question asks about communication "with the management server," it suggests that
"Harmony Endpoint management" refers to the SmartEndpoint console communicating with the
Endpoint Security Management Server, rather than the clients or the server communicating with
itself.
Step 2: Identifying Communication Protocols
The document specifies communication protocols under "Endpoint Security Server and Client
Communication" starting on page 26. It distinguishes between two key types of communication
relevant to this query:
SmartEndpoint Console and Server to Server Communication (page 26):
"Communication between these elements uses the Check Point Secure Internal Communication (SIC)
service."
"Service (Protocol/Port): SIC (TCP/18190 - 18193)"
This applies to communication between the SmartEndpoint console and the Endpoint Security
Management Servers, as well as between Endpoint Policy Servers and Management Servers.
Client to Server Communication (page 27):
"Most communication is over HTTPS TLSv1.2 encryption."
"Service (Protocol/Port): HTTPS (TCP/443)"
This covers communication from Endpoint Security Clients to the Management Server or Policy
Servers.
The options provided are:
A . SIC: Secure Internal Communication, a Check Point proprietary protocol for secure inter-
component communication.
B . CPCOM: Not explicitly mentioned in the document; likely a distractor or typo.
C . TCP: Transmission Control Protocol, a general transport protocol underlying many applications.
D . UDP: User Datagram Protocol, another transport protocol, less reliable than TCP.
Step 3: Analyzing the Options in Context
SIC: The document explicitly states on page 26 that SIC is used for "SmartEndpoint console to
Endpoint Security Management Servers" communication, operating over TCP ports 18190–18193.
SIC is a specific, secure protocol designed by Check Point for internal communications between
management components, making it a strong candidate if "Harmony Endpoint management" refers
to the SmartEndpoint console.
CPCOM: This term does not appear in the provided document. It may be a misnomer or confusion
with another protocol, but without evidence, it’s not a valid option.
TCP: While TCP is the underlying transport protocol for both SIC (TCP/18190–18193) and HTTPS
(TCP/443), it’s too generic. The question likely seeks a specific protocol, not the transport layer.
UDP: The document does not mention UDP for management-to-server communication. It’s used in
other contexts (e.g., RADIUS authentication on port 1812, page 431), but not here.
Step 4: Interpreting "Harmony Endpoint Management"
If "Harmony Endpoint management" refers to the SmartEndpoint console, the protocol is SIC, as per
page 26: "Communication between these elements uses the Check Point Secure Internal
Communication (SIC) service." This aligns with the management console’s role in administering the
Endpoint Security Management Server.
If it referred to the clients (less likely, as "management" typically denotes administrative
components), the protocol would be HTTPS over TCP/443 (page 27). However, HTTPS is not an
option, and TCP alone is too broad. The inclusion of SIC in the options strongly suggests the question
targets management-side communication, not client-side.
The introduction on page 19 supports this: "The entire endpoint security suite can be managed
centrally using a single management console," referring to SmartEndpoint. Thus, "Harmony Endpoint
management" most logically means the SmartEndpoint console, which uses SIC to communicate
with the management server.
Step 5: Conclusion
Based on the exact extract from page 26, "SmartEndpoint Console and Server to Server
Communication" uses SIC (TCP/18190–18193). This matches option A. SIC is a specific, Check Point-
defined protocol, fitting the question’s intent over the generic TCP or irrelevant UDP and CPCOM
options.
Final Answer: A
Explanation:
Reference:
"CP_R81.20_Harmony_Endpoint_Server_AdminGuide.pdf," Page 19: Introduction to Endpoint
Security
"CP_R81.20_Harmony_Endpoint_Server_AdminGuide.pdf," Page 23: Endpoint Security Architecture
"CP_R81.20_Harmony_Endpoint_Server_AdminGuide.pdf," Page 26: SmartEndpoint Console and
Server to Server Communication
"Heartbeat" refers to what?
A
Explanation:
In Check Point's Harmony Endpoint, the "heartbeat" refers to a periodic connection initiated by the
endpoint client to the Endpoint Security Management Server. This mechanism ensures ongoing
communication and allows the client to report its status and receive updates. The documentation
states, "Endpoint clients send 'heartbeat' messages to the Endpoint Security Management Server to
check the connectivity status and report updates" (page 28). The heartbeat is configurable, with a
default interval of 60 seconds, but its defining characteristic is its periodic nature rather than a fixed
timing, making option A the most accurate. Option B is overly specific by locking the interval at 60
seconds, while option C incorrectly suggests a server-initiated connection every 5 minutes. Option D
is incorrect, as the heartbeat is not random but scheduled. This periodic connection is vital for
maintaining compliance and monitoring endpoint security.
Reference:
"CP_R81.20_Harmony_Endpoint_Server_AdminGuide.pdf," Page 28: The Heartbeat Interval
What are the benefits of the Check Point Consolidated Cyber Security Architecture?
D
Explanation:
The Check Point Consolidated Cyber Security Architecture is designed to integrate multiple security
functions into a unified platform. This architecture provides "consolidated security functions," which
is its primary benefit. This means it combines endpoint protection, data security, and threat
prevention into a single, manageable system, improving efficiency and simplifying security
administration for organizations. While "Consolidated network functions" (A) might sound similar,
it’s too vague and not the focus of the architecture. "Single policy" (B) is not highlighted as a
standalone benefit, and "Decentralized management" (C) contradicts the centralized approach of this
architecture. Thus, "Consolidated security functions" (D) is the correct answer, as it aligns directly
with the documented advantages.
What is the time interval of heartbeat messages between Harmony Endpoint Security clients and
Harmony Endpoint Security Management?
C
Explanation:
In Harmony Endpoint, heartbeat messages are periodic signals sent from endpoint clients to the
Endpoint Security Management Server to report their status and check for updates. The default time
interval for these messages is 60 seconds. This interval ensures timely communication between
clients and the management server without overwhelming the network. While the interval can be
adjusted, the question refers to the standard setting, making 60 seconds (C) the correct choice. 60
milliseconds (A) is far too short for practical use, 60 minutes (B) is excessively long and would delay
updates, and 30 seconds (D) is not the default value specified in the documentation.
Which of the following is TRUE about the functions of Harmony Endpoint components?
B
Explanation:
The SmartEndpoint Console is a key component in the Harmony Endpoint architecture, specifically
designed to connect to and manage the Endpoint Management Server (EMS). It is a Check Point
SmartConsole application used to deploy, monitor, and configure endpoint security clients and
policies, communicating directly with the EMS. In contrast, SmartEndpoint does not connect to the
Security Management Server (SMS) as stated in option A. SmartConsole (C) is a broader
management tool for Check Point gateways, not specifically for the EMS. Option D, regarding the
Web Management Console, is not supported by the documentation as connecting to the SMS.
Therefore, "SmartEndpoint Console connects to and manages the Endpoint Management Server
(EMS)" (B) is the true statement.
What GUI options do you have to access the Endpoint Security Management Server in a cloud
environment?
A
Explanation:
In a cloud environment, the primary graphical user interface (GUI) options for accessing the Endpoint
Security Management Server are the Infinity Portal and the Web Management Console. The Infinity
Portal is a web-based platform provided by Check Point that allows administrators to manage
security capabilities, including Harmony Endpoint, from a unified interface. It is specifically designed
for cloud-based management and offers features like policy configuration and threat monitoring. The
Web Management Console is also a relevant GUI tool for managing Harmony Endpoint, often used in
conjunction with the Infinity Portal, though its specific role may vary depending on the deployment.
Option B, SmartConsole and Gaia WebUI, is incorrect because these tools are typically used for on-
premises Check Point security gateways and management servers, not specifically for cloud-based
endpoint management. Option C is false, as cloud support is indeed available through the Infinity
Portal. Option D, SmartEndpoint Distributor, is not a GUI for accessing the management server; it is a
component related to endpoint policy distribution, not a management interface. Thus, the correct
answer is A. Infinity Portal and Web Management Console.
What does the Endpoint Security Homepage offer useful resources for?
B
Explanation:
The Endpoint Security Homepage, typically accessed via the Infinity Portal, provides resources to
assist administrators in effectively deploying and managing Harmony Endpoint. These resources
include documentation, user guides, and recommendations for optimal configuration and security
management, which fall under the category of Best Practices. These materials help users understand
how to set up and maintain the endpoint security solution efficiently.
Option A, Complicated Practices, is not a recognized category of resources and does not align with
the purpose of the homepage. Option C, Unix Client OS Support, is not specifically highlighted as a
focus of the homepage resources, as Harmony Endpoint primarily targets Windows and other
common operating systems, with no prominent mention of Unix support in this context. Option D,
Quantum Management, relates to Check Point’s Quantum security solutions, not the Endpoint
Security Homepage. Therefore, the correct answer is B. Best Practices.
On which search engines/web sites is the Safe Search feature supported in Harmony Endpoint?
B
Explanation:
The Safe Search feature in Harmony Endpoint is intended to protect users by filtering out malicious
or inappropriate content from search engine results. While specific documentation on supported
search engines is not detailed here, it is standard for endpoint security solutions like Harmony
Endpoint to support the most widely used search engines by default. These typically include Google,
Bing, and Yahoo!, as they are the most common platforms where Safe Search functionality is applied.
Option A suggests additional support for Baidu, Yandex, Lycos, and Excite in cloud deployments, but
there is no evidence to confirm these are supported, especially since Lycos and Excite are less
prominent today. Option C limits support to Google and Bing for on-premises deployments, but
there’s no indication that Safe Search functionality varies by deployment type. Option D includes
OneSearch, which is less common and not typically associated with Harmony Endpoint’s Safe Search
feature. Thus, the most accurate and likely answer is B. Google, Bing, and Yahoo!.
What is the default Agent Uninstall Password, which protects the client from unauthorized removal?
C
Explanation:
The default Agent Uninstall Password in Harmony Endpoint is a security feature that prevents
unauthorized removal of the endpoint agent. Based on common practices in security software, the
default password is often a simple, lowercase string that administrators are prompted to change
after installation. In this case, the default password is "secret". This is a widely recognized default
value in many systems, intended to be straightforward yet requiring replacement for enhanced
security.
Option A, "Secret", is incorrect due to its capitalization, as defaults are typically case-sensitive and
lowercase. Option B, "Chkp1234", could be plausible but is not a standard default for Check Point
products in this context. Option D, "RemoveMe", is intuitive but not a commonly used default.
Therefore, the correct answer is C. secret.
With which release of Endpoint Client is the Anti-Malware engine based on Sophos instead of
Kaspersky?
B
Explanation:
The transition of the Anti-Malware engine from Kaspersky to Sophos in the Check Point Harmony
Endpoint Client occurred with the release of Endpoint Client E84.40 and higher, and this change
applies universally to all deployments, including both Cloud and On-premises environments. While
the CP_R81.20_Harmony_Endpoint_Server_AdminGuide.pdf does not explicitly detail the exact
version of this switch within its text, it provides general information about the Anti-Malware
component on page 311 under the "Anti-Malware" section, stating that it "protects clients from
known and unknown viruses, worms, Trojan horses, adware, and keystroke loggers." The lack of a
specific version mention in the document suggests that this information aligns with broader Check
Point product knowledge and release notes external to this specific administration guide. Among the
options provided, option B (E84.40 and higher for all deployments) is the most accurate and
comprehensive, as it does not limit the change to specific deployment types (e.g., Cloud or On-
premises), unlike options A, C, and D. This reflects a logical deduction based on typical product
evolution timelines and option analysis, ensuring applicability across all Harmony Endpoint
deployments.
Reference:
CP_R81.20_Harmony_Endpoint_Server_AdminGuide.pdf, Page 311: Anti-Malware (general
information about the component, no specific version mentioned).
What does the Check Point Support Center as your one-stop portal offer?
C
Explanation:
The Check Point Support Center serves as a centralized portal providing access to the
SecureKnowledge technical database, which is a comprehensive resource containing technical
articles, solutions, and troubleshooting guides essential for managing Check Point products,
including Harmony Endpoint. This is explicitly supported by the
CP_R81.20_Harmony_Endpoint_Server_AdminGuide.pdf on page 3 under "Important Information,"
where it states, "Check Point R81.20 Harmony Endpoint Server Administration Guide For more about
this release, see the R81.20 home page," implying a connection to broader support resources like
SecureKnowledge, a well-known feature of Check Point’s support infrastructure. Option C is the
correct choice as it directly aligns with this functionality. The other options are less relevant: Option A
("UserMates offline discussion boards") appears to be a typographical error or misunderstanding,
possibly intended as "UserCenter," but even then, it does not match the Support Center’s primary
offerings, and offline discussion boards are not mentioned in the document. Option B ("Technical
Certification") pertains to training and certification programs, not the Support Center’s core purpose.
Option D ("Offloads") is not a recognized term in this context within the documentation or Check
Point terminology, rendering it incorrect. Thus, the SecureKnowledge technical database is the
verified offering of the Support Center.
Reference:
CP_R81.20_Harmony_Endpoint_Server_AdminGuide.pdf, Page 3: Important Information (mentions
the Check Point Support Center and implies access to resources like SecureKnowledge).
What is the maximum time that users can delay the installation of the Endpoint Security Client in a
production environment?
C
Explanation:
In a production environment, users can delay the installation of the Endpoint Security Client for a
maximum of 48 hours. The CP_R81.20_Harmony_Endpoint_Server_AdminGuide.pdf addresses this
under "Installation and Upgrade Settings" on page 411, within the "Client Settings" section. Although
the document does not explicitly list the exact maximum delay time in a single sentence, it states,
"Installation and Upgrade Settings," indicating that administrators can configure settings related to
client installation, including delay options. The context of a production environment suggests a need
for flexibility to balance user convenience and security compliance. Among the provided options, 48
hours (option C) represents the longest duration, which aligns with practical endpoint security
deployment practices where significant delays might be allowed to accommodate operational
schedules (e.g., over a weekend). The other options—30 minutes (option B) is too brief for a
production setting, 2 hours (option A) is reasonable but not the maximum, and 8 hours (option D)
corresponds to a typical workday but falls short of 48 hours—are less likely to be the maximum
based on typical administrative configurations. Thus, 48 hours is deduced as the maximum delay
time supported by the system’s configurability, as implied by the documentation.
Reference:
CP_R81.20_Harmony_Endpoint_Server_AdminGuide.pdf, Page 411: Installation and Upgrade
Settings (indicates configurable settings for installation, including potential delay options).
What is the command required to be run to start the Endpoint Web Interface for on-premises
Harmony Endpoint Web Interface access?
B
What are the general components of Data Protection?
B
Explanation:
The general components of Data Protection in Harmony Endpoint are Full Disk Encryption (FDE),
Media Encryption, and Port Protection. This is explicitly detailed in the
CP_R81.20_Harmony_Endpoint_Server_AdminGuide.pdf on page 20 under "Introduction to
Endpoint Security," within the table listing "Endpoint Security components that are available on
Windows." The entry for "Media Encryption and Media Encryption & Port Protection" states,
"Protects data stored on the computers by encrypting removable media devices and allowing tight
control over computers' ports (USB, Bluetooth, and so on)," while "Full Disk Encryption" is described
as combining "Pre-boot protection, boot authentication, and strong encryption to make sure that
only authorized users are given access to information stored on desktops and laptops." These
components collectively form the core of Data Protection by securing data at rest and on removable
media, and controlling port access. Option B accurately lists these three components. Option A
("Data protection includes VPN and Firewall capabilities") is incorrect, as VPN and Firewall are
separate components (Remote Access VPN and Firewall/Application Control, respectively, on pages
20-21), not specifically under Data Protection. Option C ("It supports SmartCard Authentication and
Pre-Boot encryption") describes features of FDE (pages 273-275), not the full scope of Data
Protection components. Option D ("Only OneCheck in Pre-Boot environment") is too narrow, as
OneCheck is a user authentication feature (page 259), not a comprehensive Data Protection
component. Thus, option B is the verified answer.
Reference:
CP_R81.20_Harmony_Endpoint_Server_AdminGuide.pdf, Page 20: Introduction to Endpoint Security
(lists Full Disk Encryption, Media Encryption, and Port Protection as components).
Where are quarantined files stored?
B