Question: What is the primary purpose of encrypting hiding information elements (e.g., Via, Record-Route, Route, and Path headers) in SIP messages when using the Hiding Mechanism in a telecom network?
Option 1: To ensure authentication of SIP proxies within the hiding network.
Option 2: To protect the identities of SIP proxies and the topology of the hiding network from external visibility.
Option 3: To guarantee the integrity of SIP headers during transmission across different domains.
Option 4: To facilitate load balancing among SIP proxies within the hiding network.
Explanation: The correct answer, Option 2, aligns with the stated purpose of encryption in network hiding as per the provided context. Encrypting specific SIP headers aims to conceal the identities of internal SIP proxies and the network’s topology from external entities, enhancing security by making it difficult for outsiders to map or exploit the internal network structure. Options 1 and 3 are incorrect because the text explicitly states that the Hiding Mechanism does not address authentication and integrity protection issues. Option 4 is also incorrect as there is no mention of load balancing in relation to the Hiding Mechanism’s purpose.