Which item is explicitly listed as a physical access control in the materials?

• A. Badges
• B. Passwords
• C. Encryption keys
• D. Firewalls

Answer: (A)

Restricting physical access relies on tangible controls that directly limit who can enter a facility or area. Badges serve as physical access credentials; a badge reader at a door checks the badge and, if valid, permits entry, functioning as a direct, real-world gatekeeper. In contrast, passwords verify a user’s identity within a computer system, encryption keys protect data, and firewalls control network traffic. These are all logical protections applied to information systems rather than physical entry to a space, so they aren’t considered physical access controls.