Palo Alto Networks (PANW) System Engineer (PSE) Practice Exam

Which foundation service is crucial for securely connecting an on-premises data center to the cloud?

1. Storage

2. Compute

3. Database

4. Networking

The correct answer is: Networking

The foundation service that is crucial for securely connecting an on-premises data center to the cloud is networking. A robust networking infrastructure is essential for establishing secure and reliable communication between on-premises resources and cloud environments. This involves implementing various networking solutions such as Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), dedicated connectivity options like Direct Connect or ExpressRoute, and secure access protocols. Networking ensures that data traveling between the on-premises data center and the cloud is encrypted and protected, minimizing risks associated with unauthorized access and data breaches. It also facilitates the configuration of firewalls, load balancers, and security groups, which are vital in maintaining a secure and efficient connection. While other services like storage, compute, and databases are important for cloud operations and functionality, they do not address the primary need for secure connectivity and communication between on-premises and cloud environments. Networking serves as the backbone for all these services to effectively interact, making it the most critical element in establishing a secure link.