What type of control is used to discourage malicious actors from attempting to breach a network?

The correct answer is deterrent control, as these types of controls are specifically designed to dissuade individuals from attempting to engage in malicious activities or breaches. Deterrent controls typically include strategies such as warning signs, surveillance cameras, and visible security personnel that create a perceived risk for anyone considering unauthorized actions. The goal of deterrent controls is to increase the likelihood that a potential attacker would think twice before attempting to compromise a network, due to the increased chances of being caught or facing consequences.

In contrast, detective controls focus on identifying and responding to security breaches after they occur, while preventative controls aim to block unauthorized access and protect systems from attacks before they can take place. Physical controls protect the physical boundaries of a network, like locks and access control systems, but these do not inherently serve the purpose of actively deterring malicious intent in the same way that deterrent controls do.