What is IDPS?

Intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDPS) process and monitor events occurring in a company’s network and devices to analyze them for signs of possible weaknesses. IDPS solutions also look for incidents that violate security or use policies. An IDPS can alert a security team to report any errors, and help prevent future attacks.

The Difference Between Detection and Prevention

Intrusion detection and intrusion prevention are sometimes sold as independent solutions rather than a bundled IDPS system. Here are the differences between these two systems:

• Intrusion detection systems (IDS) monitor businesses’ network traffic, analyze systems for errors, and exploit any attempts of cybercrime. IDS also can collect logging information about anyone trying to perform a network crime, attempt to stop it, and report any errors or hacker risks to security teams.
• Intrusion prevention systems (IPS) execute responses to prevent possible errors in a network. IPS can typically stop a system by dropping packets or deleting problem sessions.

As the rate of cybercrime and hacks increases, having a system that uses both detection and prevention can help prevent unwanted incidents. A combined system is usually more cost-effective and streamlined as well.

Types of IDPS

There are multiple types of IDPS that an enterprise should recognize as they decide what is best for their business.

Network-based intrusion prevention system (NIPS)

A NIPS is fully focused on monitoring networks and network segments for traffic errors or inconsistencies. NIPSs are deployed at network boundaries, behind firewalls, routers, and remote access servers.

Wireless intrusion prevention system (WIPS)

A WIPS is used to monitor and analyze wireless network protocols. WIPSs are deployed within the wireless network or parts of a network that are more likely to be sensitive wireless networks.

Network behavior analysis (NBA) system

A NBA system is used to analyze unusual traffic patterns within a network. Unusual traffic patterns can result in policy violations, malware attacks, or distributed denial of service (DDoS).

Host-based intrusion prevention system (HIPS)

A HIPS consists of a single host that assists in protecting vital data or public servers that can become gateways to internal systems. The host also monitors the traffic in and out and maintains processes through the system, network activity, system logs, application activity, and configuration changes.

Why use Intrusion Detection and Prevention?

As data breaches, cybercrime, and ransomware become a pattern within businesses and industries, it can be valuable for a company to have the safety precautions that IDPS provides.

Specifically, IDPS can provide companies:

• Protection of technology infrastructure and valuable data
• Looks out for existing users and security policies
• Collects information about network resources
• Assists in meeting compliance requirements

Explore Best Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS) on eSecurity Planet.