Keeping your business safe from cyber threats is more important than ever. As cyber threats become more advanced, having the right tools to protect your data is essential. Two common options are IDS (Intrusion Detection System) and IPS (Intrusion Prevention System). While they may sound similar, they work in different ways to help you spot and deal with possible attacks.
In this blog, we'll explain what are IDS and IPS, what each system does, how they work, and which one might be right for your business. Whether you're new to network security or just looking to strengthen your defences, understanding the difference between IDS and IPS is a smart first step.
Let's take a closer look at both.
What Is an IDS (Intrusion Detection System)?
When you want to protect your server without slowing down your network traffic, an Intrusion Detection System (IDS) can help. It monitors your systems silently in the background and notifies you when something unusual happens, all while letting your regular traffic continue without interruption.
Types of IDS
Network-Based IDS: This type monitors traffic from a specific point in the network, checking data from every device that passes through it.
Host-Based IDS: Focuses only on the traffic going to and from an individual device, ignoring the rest of the network.
Protocol-Based IDS: Positioned between a device and the server, it checks all traffic going back and forth.
Application Protocol-Based IDS: Monitors the way a group of servers communicate with each other.
Hybrid IDS: Combines features from different IDS types to create a custom solution for your needs.
How IDS Works
An IDS works by passively watching over your network activity. It does not interfere with traffic but will send you an alert if it notices anything suspicious. It can detect threats using several methods.
One method is pattern detection, which picks up strange behaviour like large data packets or abnormal requests.
Another is signature detection, where the system looks for evidence of known attacks. Advanced IDS tools also use machine learning to understand what normal activity looks like so they can better detect anything out of the ordinary.
Benefits and Limitations
IDS systems are easy to install and are usually hidden from attackers. They let you monitor threats without alerting anyone that you are watching.
However, since the system only alerts you and takes no action, it means you may lose time reacting to an active threat. The responsibility for stopping and fixing the issue remains with you.
What is an IPS (Intrusion Prevention System)?
An Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) is designed to take immediate action when a threat is detected. It does not wait for your input. Instead, it blocks or removes threats right away, even if that means stopping legitimate traffic to keep your systems secure.
Types of IPS
Network-Based IPS: Monitors all the data moving through your network and reacts to anything suspicious.
Wireless IPS: Focuses on threats that come through wireless connections.
Network Behaviour Analysis IPS: Looks for irregular traffic patterns that may suggest an attack.
Host-Based IPS: Keeps an eye on a specific device to catch threats targeted at it.
How IPS Works
An IPS monitors your system constantly and acts the moment it detects a problem. It does not just warn you. It might end a suspicious session, block certain IP addresses, or cut off a connection if needed. It may also update firewall rules to fix any weakness that allowed the attack. Some systems can even scan for malicious content and remove it before it causes harm.
Real-Time Action and Risks
Because an IPS works in real time, it is highly effective at stopping threats before they spread. But it also comes with a risk. If it misidentifies something safe as a threat, it may block important traffic and interrupt your operations.
After handling an incident, the system creates a detailed report that shows what happened and what actions it took. You can use this to improve your security and undo any changes that were not needed.
IDS vs IPS: Key Differences and Similarities
Both IDS and IPS have several features in common. They can monitor network activity, send alerts, use machine learning to learn from behaviour patterns, and keep records of incidents for review. Once installed, they both run in the background until you turn them off.
The main difference is how they respond. An IDS only alerts you and does not interfere with anything. It is up to you to take action if there is a problem.
On the other hand IPS, reacts straight away. It attempts to block, clean, or fix the issue without waiting for your input. While this makes IPS systems more protective, it also means they can accidentally block safe activity if they make a mistake. A false alert from an IDS only affects your response team. A false alert from an IPS can interrupt service for your entire organisation.
Choosing the right system depends on how much risk your company can accept. If service interruptions caused by false alerts would be too damaging, an IDS might be the better option. But if any delay in response could harm your business or reputation, an IPS could be more suitable.
How Can IDS and IPS Work Together for Better Network Security?
Many businesses do not choose one or the other. Instead, they use both IDS and IPS to create stronger protection. This gives them both immediate threat prevention and deeper insight into network activity.
An IPS blocks attacks as they happen, while the IDS offers a detailed view of the traffic moving through your network. Together, they give you a full picture and greater control, helping you to spot, stop, and understand threats more effectively.
Conclusion
Choosing between IDS and IPS comes down to how your business handles security risks. IDS helps you detect threats, while IPS works to block them in real time. Using both can offer strong protection and greater visibility across your network.
If you're not sure which option suits your setup or need expert advice, Radium is ready to support you. We can guide you through the decision-making process and help you put the right systems in place. Contact Radium today to take the next step in protecting your business from online threats.