Ethical Hacking Course: What is an intrusion detection system (IDS)? | Intellipaat

An intrusion detection system (IDS) is a security technology that monitors a network or system for signs of malicious activity or policy violations. It is designed to detect and alert administrators about any unauthorized access, suspicious traffic, or other security breaches that could indicate an ongoing attack.

IDS can be categorized into two types: host-based intrusion detection systems (HIDS) and network-based intrusion detection systems (NIDS). HIDS are installed on individual hosts or servers and monitor system logs, event logs, and other activity on the host. NIDS, on the other hand, are placed at strategic points within a network and monitor network traffic in real-time.

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An IDS typically works by comparing observed events to a set of predefined rules or patterns to identify any suspicious activity. These rules can be based on known attack patterns, signatures of known viruses, or specific policy violations. When a potential intrusion is detected, the IDS sends an alert to a central monitoring system or an administrator, allowing them to investigate and respond to the potential threat.

Intrusion detection systems can be an important part of a multi-layered security strategy, helping to detect and respond to security breaches quickly before they can cause significant damage. However, they should not be relied on as the only security measure, as they are not foolproof and can be bypassed by sophisticated attackers. It is important to combine IDS with other security technologies, such as firewalls, encryption, and access control measures, to provide comprehensive protection against security threats.