What Is Intrusion Prevention System (IPS)?

Do you know that a new cyber-attack takes place somewhere in the world every 39 seconds? Well, yes, that’s how constant and relentless digital threats have become today. The extent is so that, by 2027, cybercrime will cost organizations a whopping $23 trillion annually, an increase of 175% from 2022.

These figures shed light on how significant network security solutions are in the world we live in at present. Amongst them, the most effective weapon is the intrusion prevention system (IPS). What is it, and how exactly can it help? Let’s deduce…

What is an Intrusion Prevention System (IPS)?

An intrusion prevention system (IPS) is a cybersecurity software program to monitors network traffic for malicious activity and automatically blocks threats. You can view it as a security guard examining all packets of data that are entering or leaving your network.

An IPS, in this regard, extends beyond the functionality of a firewall that passes or blocks traffic based on simple rules. For, with its advanced detection techniques, IPS security proactively examines the traffic to spot attack signatures, attack patterns, and abnormal behaviour.

Once a threat is identified, it is capable of blocking the harmful traffic, alerting the concerned personnel, and even updating security policies to prevent such attacks from taking place in the future.

Some of the leading IPS security tools available in this regard are ThreatLocker, CrowdStrike Falcon, Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet, FortiGuard IPS, Snort, Fail2Ban, etc.

How Does an Intrusion Prevention System Work?

An intrusion prevention system operates by inspecting network traffic, examining data packets, and comparing them against a database of known threats or suspicious activities.

When it detects something malicious, the IPS can…

Drop malicious packets
Block traffic from suspicious IP addresses
Reset connections
Update firewall rules
Send alerts to administrators

And all of this occurs in real time, without requiring human intervention. It is this swiftness and automation that render IPS security so useful.

ThreatLocker

4.2

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Detection Methods Used by an Intrusion Prevention System

IPS security makes use of sundry detection techniques to spot threats. Some of them are mentioned below for your understanding…

Diagram showing four Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) detection methods: Signature-Based Detection (fast and accurate, misses new threats), Anomaly-Based Detection (captures unknown attacks, false alarms), Policy-Based Detection (blocks specific applications, enforces traffic rules), and Behavioural Analysis (detects advanced threats using machine learning).

1. Signature-Based Detection

Signature-based detection is the most common detection method used by IPS systems. In this, the IPS checks network traffic against a database of known attack signatures. If a match is found, it blocks the threat. Though fast and accurate when it comes to tackling known attacks, this technique may, however, miss out on new or unknown threats.

2. Anomaly-Based Detection

In this method, the IPS in question learns what normal network activity looks like. So, if it senses anything unusual taking place, like a sudden rush in traffic, it raises an alert or blocks the traffic. This is useful in capturing new or unknown attacks, but may also trigger a false alarm.

3. Policy-Based Detection

In policy-based detection, the IPS is bound by the rules set by the security team. As an example, you may block specific applications, sites, or traffic types. In case a rule is violated, the IPS goes into action.

4. Behavioural Analysis

Some IPS systems use advanced algorithms or machine learning to spot threats based on behaviour. To illustrate, when a user all of a suddenly starts downloading a great deal of files, the IPS can mark this as questionable. Behavioural analysis is thus a good tactic for catching advanced or hidden threats.

Where is an IPS Commonly Placed in a Network?

The location of an intrusion prevention system in the network is extremely crucial for its overall effectiveness. Typically, an IPS gets placed in line, which implies that all network traffic is required to go through it before reaching its destination. This position enables the IPS to examine, scrutinize, and act against (if needed) each data packet in real time.

Behind the Firewall: This is the most common placement. The firewall drops unwanted traffic, and what is left is inspected by the IPS to find deeper threats.
Between Network Segments: In segmented networks, IPS systems scrutinize and regulate traffic between sensitive network locations, like between a corporate network and a data center.
At Data Center Entrances: IPS systems are also commonly used at the entrance and exit of data centers in order to safeguard sensitive information and applications.
On Critical Endpoints: Host-based IPS systems can be installed on servers or workstations to offer targeted protection.

CrowdStrike Falcon Endpoint Security

4.8

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$ 59.99

Different Types of Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) Explained

Not all IPS systems are the same. There are several types, each designed for specific environments and needs…

Illustration of layered security strategies showing four types of Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS)Network-Based IPS, Host-Based IPS, Wireless IPS, and Network Behaviour Analysis IPS all contributing to comprehensive network security

1. Network-Based IPS (NIPS)

Network-based intrusion prevention system monitors all traffic on a network segment. It is placed in-line at strategic points, such as between the firewall and the internal network. Owing to this, it is ideal for protecting large networks and monitoring high volumes of traffic.

2. Host-Based IPS (HIPS)

Host-based IPS gets directly installed on individual computers or servers. It protects specific endpoints from both local and network-based attacks. This makes it useful for securing critical servers, point-of-sale systems, or remote devices.

3. Wireless IPS (WIPS)

Wireless IPS security monitors wireless networks for unauthorized access and suspicious activity. It is integrated with wireless access points or as standalone devices, and is essential for organizations with extensive Wi-Fi networks.

4. Network Behaviour Analysis (NBA) IPS

Network behaviour analysis (NBA) IPS focuses on detecting unusual traffic patterns that may indicate attacks, such as DDoS or data exfiltration. It analyzes network flows and behaviours rather than individual packets, which makes it ideal for detecting advanced threats and insider attacks.

Business Benefits of Using an Intrusion Prevention System

Implementing IPS security offers many advantages for organizations of all sizes. Some of them are listed below for your convenience…

Proactive Protection: IPS solutions help block threats way before they get access to private data or systems. This significantly reduces the risk of breaches or unauthorized access.
Reduced Manual Workload: Since it automates threat detection and response, it leaves security teams with ample time to focus on other important, strategic tasks.
Comprehensive Coverage: IPS security is capable of defending networks against a host of threats, including malware, zero-day exploits, DDoS attacks, insider threats, and more
Improved Compliance: It offers elaborate logs and automated defense to assist in achieving industry best practices and compliance.
Enhanced Visibility: IPS solutions monitor networks in real-time, giving organizations greater visibility into their network activity.
Lower Risk of Reputational Damage: By restricting threats before they occur, an IPS system prevents organizations from expensive reputational damage.
Cost Savings: When cyberattacks get detected and mitigated in time, organizations get to save a lot in losses, fines, and remediation costs.

Palo Alto Networks WildFire

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What is the Difference Between IDS and IPS?

A diagram illustrating all the key differences between IDS and IPS

Intrusion detection systems (IDS) and intrusion prevention systems (IPS) are frequently mentioned together, but they serve different purposes. One of the major differences between the two is in how they approach threats. While IDS, on one hand, helps organizations detect threats, IPS security, on the other, helps them prevent them from taking place.

For more differences between IDS and IPS, refer to the table below..

Feature	Intrusion Detection System (IDS)	Intrusion Prevention System (IPS)
Placement	Off-line (passive)	In-line (active)
Action	Detects and alerts	Detects and blocks
Response	No direct prevention	Automated prevention
Use Case	Monitoring and analysis	Real-time threat blocking
Impact on Traffic	Nil	Offline (passive)

Conclusion

An effective intrusion prevention system is a must-have for any and every organization. For it not only delivers automated, real-time protection against a variety of threats, but also, when integrated with other network security solutions, helps you create a powerful, layered defence for your organization.

By understanding how IPS systems work and investing in one, you can protect your organization’s data, reputation, and bottom line, all while staying ahead of cyber threats. So, what are you waiting for? Visit the Techjockey website today and find yourself an IPS security solution before a cybercriminal attacks your network, leaving you helpless.