A network intrusion detection system (NIDS) is a security software that monitors incoming network traffic for malicious activity, filtering based on predefined rules for cybersecurity threats. It can learn and add new threats quickly, and some types filter based on specific protocols or IP addresses. A bypass switch is included to ensure malicious message filtering, and sophisticated systems can track and trap cybercriminals.
In computing, a network intrusion detection system (NIDS) is a special computer security device that monitors incoming network traffic. This software reads message packets sent across the network and determines whether they are malicious or harmful. Many businesses and other organizations need these systems to secure their computer networks.
The network intrusion detection system is often considered the first line of defense for a computer network. This system can filter incoming network traffic based on predefined rules for cybersecurity threats. The NIDS can monitor a network for many types of cyberthreats. These include denial of service attacks, viruses, worms and malicious spam.
Most intrusion detection systems monitor network traffic into and out of a business. This security software reads message packets broadcast throughout the enterprise, looking for malicious activity. When a suspicious message is found, it is usually logged and blocked by the network.
A network intrusion detection system can also learn based on the threats it discovers. When messages are blocked from the network, they are added to the response tree of potential future threats. This ensures that new viruses are added quickly to the detection system, thus blocking malicious activity.
A protocol-based network intrusion detection system is a special form of detection that looks for specific types of messages based on the protocol. This security software searches for messages based on the protocol in effect. Some examples of protocols examined include Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), Secure Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTPS), and Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP).
Some security software can filter malicious activity based on specific IP addresses. This type of network intrusion detection system is considered a less sophisticated tool because many computer security hackers spoof the IP address in an attempt to hide from security software. IP address filtering is similar to a no call log. The system looks for requests from specific IP addresses and denies network access when a suspicious address is found.
A bypass switch is typically included in an intrusion detection system. This switch is a hardware device that provides a gateway for monitoring software to review packets on a network. The bypass switch resides at the network entry point to ensure malicious message filtering.
Many sophisticated intrusion detection systems can track and trap cybercriminals. These systems set internal alarms and provide a method to intercept and log malicious activity. By monitoring devices this way, security professionals can spot and stop cyber hackers.
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