Intruder detection is a set of security measures used to protect computer networks from unauthorized access and breaches. Access rights are assigned to authorized employees, and other methods like retinal scans and keystroke monitoring are used to verify identity. Security protocols identify and stop attempts before a breach occurs, and additional security features monitor and log activity. The methods employed have become more comprehensive as hackers develop new methods of accessing networks.
In computer science, intruder detection is a term used to describe the various security strategies used to protect a network of computers from being accessed and used by unauthorized parties. Sometimes referred to as intrusion detection, the idea of these security measures is not only to protect the network from illegal access and use from the outside, but also to prevent security breaches within the network itself. To achieve the desired level of protection, a combination of resources will be used to keep the network safe at all times.
One of the key assets used in an intruder detection system is the ability to limit access to various information hosted on the servers and hard drives of computers that are part of the network. This process begins with assigning access rights to authorized employees. Many programs allow administrators to assign various levels of rights, based on the individual’s job responsibilities. For example, a salesperson may be able to access billing information for their customers, but cannot access the same data for customers assigned to other salespeople. Similarly, a department manager may have immediate access to any information relevant to the performance of her duties, but be unable to access information associated with other departments.
In addition to securing access to data through access codes, passwords, and even a series of qualifying questions, other methods may be needed to verify the identity of the individual attempting to access the network. Technology to enable retinal scans or fingerprint readings is often used in high-security facilities. In the event of an attempt by an outsider to gain illegal access to the network, security protocols typically include blocking the attempt and alerting personnel within the organization to take appropriate action, including identification of the origin of the attempted violation and reporting to the competent authorities. Methods such as keystroke monitoring to log and analyze keystrokes used or taking into account the events of entry ports used to enter the system are also common with this type of intruder detection approach.
The general concept of intruder detection is to use a number of different strategies that prevent unauthorized access to proprietary information hosted on the network. Typically, security protocols will identify attempts and stop them before an actual breach occurs. Even when these protocols are somehow circumvented, additional security features monitor and log activity as it occurs, quickly flagging anything that appears to be outside the scope of the actions normally associated with the credentials being used. As hackers have developed new methods of getting into networks, the methods employed as part of initiating intruder detection have also become more comprehensive, helping to maintain data integrity and protect the interests of individuals or companies that own and manage the network.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
