Episode 9 — Pinpoint PCI scope and network segmentation with certainty

Scope is the backbone of any PCI question, and this episode explains how to define it and how segmentation reshapes it. In-scope components include systems that store, process, or transmit cardholder data, and those that can affect the security of that data. We distinguish flat networks—where everything is in scope—from segmented environments where strict controls isolate the cardholder data environment (CDE). You will learn what “effective segmentation” means in practice: constrained connectivity, deny-by-default rules, documented firewall and ACL configurations, authentication barriers, and monitoring that proves the barrier works. We also show why “token-only” or “P2PE-only” zones may fall out of scope if properly isolated and why “jump boxes” can inadvertently pull admin workstations into scope when misused.Examples make the rules concrete: a CDE VLAN reachable only from jump hosts with MFA and command logging; a web tier in a DMZ that never sees PAN because payment fields are handled by a provider; and a back-office subnet with read-only reporting that remains out of scope when fed tokenized data. Evidence emphasis includes updated network diagrams, ruleset exports, segmentation test reports, and change records showing review and approval. Troubleshooting addresses common failures such as shared services (DNS, NTP, backups) that bridge zones, over-permissive “temporary” rules, and unmanaged wireless that collapses isolation. The exam favors answers that maintain strict boundaries and cite proof, not intent, so you will learn to select options that both limit reachability and produce verifiable artifacts. Produced by BareMetalCyber.com, where you’ll find more cyber audio courses, books, and information to strengthen your educational path. Also, if you want to stay up to date with the latest news, visit DailyCyber.News for a newsletter you can use, and a daily podcast you can commute with.

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