The Two Types of Intrusion Detection Systems

Types of intrusion detection systems (IDS) in Phoenix are categorized based on where you place the IDS sensors: the network or the host. Each approach addresses common issues associated with cyberattacks—however, they work best together. Before you start to investigate IDS for your servers, here are the two types and what they do to protect your network systems.

Network intrusion detection system (NIDS)

As can be assumed by the name, the NIDS is networked-based. Sensors check network traffic for unauthorized access and suspicious behavior. As packets move across your network, the sensors check headers and content to see if it belongs within your system.

When an NIDS is installed, technicians place sensors where they can best monitor traffic. Normally, this is where firewalls are located, since they are the first to detect Denial of Service (DoS) activity. This allows for a real-time monitoring approach that finds threats as they arise.

The best advantage of NIDS is damage control. It can find and neutralize the threat before it causes any damage. This will often prevent many cyberattacks and reduce the time you need to spend on repairing damage. However, in many cases, you cannot get by on real-time monitoring alone.

Host intrusion detection system (HIDS)

The savviest of hackers can avoid real-time monitoring measures and still execute their threats. To detect these attempts, you need a system that analyzes historical data to find vulnerabilities and where they were exploited. An HIDS looks at system configuration on your enterprise network. Technicians may install sensors on mobile devices and PCs as well as on servers.

The HIDS saves settings of the current system and compares them with past snapshots. From there it can determine any irregularities. These can include deleted or replaced data, which often suggests malware or security breaches. When discovered, it sends alerts to network administrators so the new settings can be further analyzed.

HIDS is often the best defense against insider threats. Even if you run thorough background checks on your own employees, similar scrutiny is not always guaranteed if you outsource your server management. Signs of insider threats include permission changes and unusual requests that may give access to sensitive data normally only available on a need-to-know basis. If you handle sensitive information, like financial or health information, you definitely want HIDS as a precaution.

However, you are often not choosing between these systems—rather, you are choosing the best way to execute these systems together. As mentioned, it is a good idea to install the real-time monitoring capabilities of NIDS while also having HIDS detect changes in your data protocol. This allows you to detect all types of threats, including those that can get past real-time monitors.

You will likely choose the best types of intrusion detection systems in Phoenix based on your information security concerns and vulnerability. IDS is not about installing a one-size-fits-all system.

Southwest System Monitoring, Inc. can help you determine the best approach for your business. Call us today to see how we can address your security needs.

Categorised in: Intrusion Detection Systems

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