Network Defense Essentials (NDE) 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The correct sequence of steps in the access control mechanism typically involves the stages of identification, authentication, authorization, and accounting. In this context, the correct ordering is essential for securing access to resources within a system effectively.

Starting with identification, the first step requires users to provide their identity, typically through a username or ID. Following identification, authentication is the second step, where the system verifies the presented credentials—such as passwords, biometrics, or security tokens. After successful authentication, the third step involves authorization, which determines if the authenticated user has permission to access specific resources or perform certain actions. The final step, accounting (or auditing), is crucial as it involves tracking and logging the user’s activities to ensure compliance and detect any unauthorized access or anomalies.

In the option that follows the sequence 2-4-1-3, it aligns correctly with this understanding: authentication first (step 2), followed by accounting (step 4), then identification (step 1), and concluding with authorization (step 3). This sequence underlines that after establishing who the user is through authentication, it’s essential to assess their activity before identifying them explicitly, making certain that every action is appropriately logged for security oversight.

This sequencing emphasizes the integrity and security