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Sandboxing
Term Key terms bank Y12 Secure Software Architecture
Definition
Running code in an isolated, restricted environment so that if it is malicious or faulty it cannot affect the rest of the system.
Example: A browser tab runs in a sandbox so a bad page cannot read your files.
Found in: syllabus, sample exam and familiarisation guidelines, school notes.
Isolated environment that limits what code can do.
Where it is used in the test
Syllabus area: Y12 Secure Software Architecture.
Question types it can appear in
- Short answer: Discuss sandboxing (familiarisation Q6)
- Multiple choice: Pick the option that matches the definition or example.
- Fill in the blanks: Choose this term to complete a statement or table.
Where it has appeared in the paper
Secure Software Architecture (Part C). Part letters follow each paper’s own layout.
Related past questions
- Familiarisation Q6 (3 marks): Sandboxing Secure Software Architecture (Part C) · 3 marks
These are the questions the flashcard set links to this term. Open each one and compare your answer with its marking criteria.
Study links
- Flashcard: Sandboxing in Secure Software Architecture (Year 12) · study that set
- Memorise: Cryptography and sandboxing in 'security by design'
- Key terms bank entry: Sandboxing
- Master answer: fam-q6 (3 marks, short answer (discuss)) (Master model answers: Secure Software Architecture)
- Notes: Cryptography and sandboxing in 'security by design' (Secure Software Architecture (Year 12))
- Notes: Use and explain the contribution of cryptography and sandboxing to the ‘security by… (Secure Software Architecture (Year 12))
- Notes: Part 3. Where this has been examined (see ../../question_bank.md) (Secure Software Architecture (Year 12))
How to use it in an answer
A model sentence
“Running code in an isolated, restricted environment so that if it is malicious or faulty it cannot affect the rest of the system.” Then apply it: A browser tab runs in a sandbox so a bad page cannot read your files.
In a short answer, give the definition in your own words first, then tie it to the situation in the question. Do not copy the example above unless it fits the scenario.
Command words used with it
No linked question shows the command word for this term. Across the past short answer questions in this bank the words used most are: Explain, Outline, Describe, Compare, Classify, Analyse. Check the actual word in your question.
Technique for the question types
- Short answer: One clear point per mark, use the stimulus and course terms, and answer the command word.
- Multiple choice: Read all four options, rule out wrong ones, pick one; no penalty for guessing so never leave blank.
- Fill in the blanks: Choose the right word from a list; use exact syllabus terms.
What the marking guidelines and feedback say
Answers could include: sandboxing limits the resource use of different processes running on the device, ensuring that if a process contains bad code, such as a memory leak, it does not consume all the resources of the operating system.
Worked answers from the marking guidelines
Familiarisation Q6 (3 marks): Sandboxing (3 marks): criteria and sample answer
Criteria
3: Thorough discussion of the use of sandboxing in the operating system. 2: Some understanding of the advantages and/or disadvantages. 1: Identifies a feature of sandboxing.
Sample answer
Sandboxing allows each application to be isolated so that it cannot pose a security risk by accessing system resources or other applications. However, it requires more resources as each application requires its own container. It may also be less convenient for users to access resources such as the device's camera or files as the sandbox will either prevent access or make it more difficult.
Common mistakes
- Use the term exactly as the syllabus words it, then link it to the scenario in the question; the 2025 feedback repeatedly rewards using the stimulus.
- Answer the command word: outline gives main points only, explain gives a reason or cause, discuss gives both sides.
Related terms
Same group in the syllabus: Security by design · Cryptography · Privacy by design · Proactive not reactive · Embed privacy into design · Respect for user privacy