Network Defense Essentials (NDE) Practice Exam 2025 – Your All-in-One Resource to Exam Success!

The cloud layer is critical for IoT security as it handles the bulk of data processing and storage for connected devices. Although the cloud adds a level of security through its infrastructure, it is primarily responsible for managing user data, analytics, and sometimes application logic. However, the focus on authentication and encryption specifically pertains to how devices connect and communicate securely over networks.

The device layer is where the IoT devices themselves reside and where initial security features, such as secure boot, device authentication, and encryption protocols, are implemented directly on the hardware. This layer ensures that each device is authenticated and communicates securely, providing a foundational level of security that extends throughout the entire IoT ecosystem.

The transport layer is also significant in the context of IoT communications, focusing on the methods of transferring data securely between devices or between devices and the cloud. It utilizes various protocols to ensure data integrity and confidentiality during transit.

While the application layer plays a role in user interactions and data processing, it does not primarily handle the authentication and encryption of the devices themselves.

In summary, while the cloud layer is important for overall management and analysis of data, it is the device layer that directly addresses authentication and encryption for the actual IoT devices, ensuring secure interactions in the network.