If the VPM has two Web Access layers, which is evaluated first?

In a configuration where the VPM (Visual Policy Manager) has two Web Access layers, the evaluation process prioritizes the layer that is visually to the left. This is due to the way the VPM UI is designed to reflect the order of evaluation. The layer that is visually on the left is considered the primary layer in terms of rules processing. Therefore, when a request is processed through those layers, the system checks the policies defined in the leftmost layer first before moving on to the one situated on the right.

This left-to-right evaluation ensures that the policies are applied in a logical sequence, maintaining clarity in policy management and allowing administrators to manage overriding or conflicting rules effectively. Thus, knowing which layer is evaluated first helps in understanding how request filtering and access control are implemented within the Blue Coat Proxy environment.

Other options like the topmost layer or the recently added layer do not accurately reflect the visual design’s directives, and simultaneous evaluation would not allow for a hierarchical precedence in the application of policies, which is essential in many access control scenarios.