top of page
Writer's pictureSec Gen

Overview of Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS)

Updated: Nov 24, 2023

To keep a network safe, you need firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and Intrusion prevention systems (IPS). Their primary function is to prevent hackers from gaining access to or disrupting a network or computer system.


While firewalls are responsible for the initial layer of security by limiting access to a network, intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS and IPS) provide an additional layer of protection by monitoring for and blocking attacks within the network itself.


Table of content -

  1. Detailed Section on IDS/IPS

  2. Is a firewall an IDS or IPS?

  3. How are IDS and IPS implemented?

  • Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS)

    • Signature-Based IDS

    • Behavior-based IDS

  • Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS)

    • Network-Based IPS

    • Host-Based IPS

1.SecurityGen's Dedication to Guaranteeing a Secure Network

Is a firewall an IDS or IPS?

Security solutions like firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDSs), and intrusion prevention systems (IPSs) are employed to keep hackers out of computer networks. However, their functions are distinct, and their mechanisms are unique.

A firewall is a network security device that filters and monitors data packets entering and leaving a network by a set of security policies. Firewalls separate a safe internal network from the potentially dangerous Internet.


They're made to block outsiders from accessing private networks while letting in those with proper credentials. To implement security regulations, firewalls use technologies, including packet filtering, application proxies, and stateful inspection.

An Intrusion Detection System (IDS) can analyze a network's traffic for telltale indicators of hacking or other forms of hostile activity. IDSs are meant to identify and alert to unusual behavior instead of firewalls that block unwanted access.


They perform their function by inspecting data transmissions across a network for indicators of compromise, like several failed login attempts, access to sensitive information, or the usage of known exploits. As soon as the IDS identifies a potential attack, it will provide an alert that can be delivered to a security administrator.


Though it's comparable to an IDS, an Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) stops attacks before they succeed. In contrast to IDSs, which merely inform administrators when malicious behavior is detected, IPSs actively block the traffic that has been identified as unfavorable. As a result, the IPS can prevent an attack from further damaging the network.

Overall, An integrated security solution should include a firewall, intrusion detection system, and intrusion prevention system components. If an intruder tries to get past your firewall, your second and third lines of defense are the intrusion detection and prevention systems. Since no single technology can guarantee absolute safety, employing multiple methods in tandem is advisable to maximize protection.


How are IDS and IPS implemented?

When protecting a network from intrusion, two of the most valuable tools are intrusion prevention systems (IPS) and intrusion detection systems (IDS). Despite sharing some same objectives, how the two systems achieve those aims can vary considerably. The post will go into depth on how to set up intrusion detection systems and intrusion prevention systems.


Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS)

Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) are software programs that monitor a network for signs of intrusion, abuse, or other harmful activities. They scan network data in real-time to look for attacks or other dangerous activity indicators. There are two main techniques for designing an IDS system: based on signatures or based on user behavior.


Signature-Based IDS: Signature-based intrusion detection systems compare incoming data against a library of known attack signatures. The system determines whether or not an item is malicious by comparing it to signatures already in its database. The IDS system notifies the system administrator when an attack pattern is detected. This IDS works well for identifying common attacks and threats but may need help with novel ones.


Behavior-based IDS: Behavior-based IDS can detect malicious activity on a network by studying how legitimate users interact with the system. This system keeps tabs on network activity, creates a standard for usual behavior, and notifies the admin of deviations. While behavior-based IDS excels at identifying previously undiscovered threats, it is resource-intensive and prone to false positives.

Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS)

Like intrusion detection systems (IDS), intrusion prevention systems (IPS) monitor and defend against attacks on a network. However, intrusion prevention systems (IPS) do more than identify malicious activity; they also implement proactive actions to thwart it. Network-based and host-based IPS systems are also viable options.

Network-Based IPS: The purpose of deploying network intrusion prevention systems in key locations across a network is to monitor real-time data transfers and thwart any unauthorized access attempts. Once it has identified a potential threat, the IPS system will quickly implement the necessary preventative measures. This intrusion prevention system (IPS) can identify and stop attacks long before they reach the target system.

Host-Based IPS: "Host-based intrusion prevention systems" refers to security measures installed locally on each host. Even if a danger has already obtained access to the target system, our intrusion prevention solution can successfully identify and stop its progress.

It is usual practice to integrate host-based intrusion prevention systems with network-based intrusion prevention systems to create a comprehensive security solution.

Ultimately, intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDS/IPS) are vital to the safety of computer networks and systems. Different types of systems and different levels of security require different approaches to installation.

No matter what kind of intrusion detection system (IDS) you use, whether it's a signature-based IDS, behavior-based IDS, network-based IPS, or host-based IPS, it's crucial to keep it up-to-date and well-maintained to keep up with the latest threats.


SecurityGen's Dedication to Guaranteeing a Secure Network

The telecoms sector is under constant pressure to ensure the integrity of its networks in an age when cyber threats are ever-evolving. For this purpose, SecurityGen has been widely recognized for its proficiency in telecom cyber security. Businesses can confidently improve their mobile networks thanks to the trustworthy security solutions provided by their team of experts.

To aid network operators in the fight against potential security threats, SecurityGen offers a comprehensive suite of technologies as well as unrivaled consulting services. Their unrivaled commitment to assuring the dependability and safety of the networks belonging to their clients sets them apart.

Through a partnership with SecurityGen, businesses are allowed to grow without putting the integrity of their networks or their reputations in the public eye in jeopardy. Because SecurityGen offers such a vast product range and has competent consultants, companies no longer need to worry about the safety of their networks.

A firewall, an intrusion detection system, and an intrusion prevention system should all be components of an efficient solution for securing a network. While each performs a unique function, they form a formidable defense against malicious data and hacking attempts. With the capability of these technologies, organizations can effectively secure their networks from being attacked by cybercriminals.










11 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page