What term is key when discussing SSL/TLS suitability for PCI scanning?

What term is key when discussing SSL/TLS suitability for PCI scanning?

• A. Server
• B. Host device
• C. Client
• D. Network

Answer: (B)

In SSL/TLS suitability checks for PCI scanning, the focus is on the endpoint where the TLS service actually runs and terminates connections—the host device. This is the device that serves certificates, negotiates TLS versions, and selects cipher suites for external clients. PCI DSS looks at how TLS is configured on that endpoint to ensure weak protocols or outdated ciphers aren’t allowed, and that certificates are valid and trusted. Describing the target as the host device emphasizes the end point being tested, rather than the client that connects, the network path, or the service role alone. While a server can host TLS, the broader term host device is the precise target PCI scans use to cover any device providing TLS services.

In SSL/TLS suitability checks for PCI scanning, the focus is on the endpoint where the TLS service actually runs and terminates connections—the host device. This is the device that serves certificates, negotiates TLS versions, and selects cipher suites for external clients. PCI DSS looks at how TLS is configured on that endpoint to ensure weak protocols or outdated ciphers aren’t allowed, and that certificates are valid and trusted. Describing the target as the host device emphasizes the end point being tested, rather than the client that connects, the network path, or the service role alone. While a server can host TLS, the broader term host device is the precise target PCI scans use to cover any device providing TLS services.