In this article, we provide you with all you need to know about IPS security.
What is IPS in security?
An intrusion prevention system (IPS) security monitors network traffic for possible threats, and when one is detected, it automatically takes action to block it by notifying the security team, cutting off risky connections, deleting malicious information, or activating additional security devices.
IPSs are sometimes referred to as “intrusion detection and prevention systems” (IDPS) since they possess automated threat prevention capabilities in addition to the threat detection and reporting features of an Intrusion Detection System (IDS).
Security teams and security operations centers (SOCs) can focus on more complicated threats since an intrusion prevention system (IPS) can directly block hostile traffic, reducing their workload. By stopping unauthorized actions from authorized users, intrusion prevention systems (IPSs) can assist in the enforcement of network security policies and compliance initiatives. An intrusion prevention system (IPS) could potentially satisfy the intrusion detection measures mandated by the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS).
How does an IPS work?
The IPS is positioned inline, between the source and the destination, right in the middle of the network traffic flow. The intrusion detection system (IDS), on the other hand, is a passive system that monitors traffic and provides information about dangers.
The solution, which is often located directly behind the firewall, examines all incoming network traffic flows and, if required, initiates automated actions.
These may consist of:
- Notifying the administrator via alarm (as displayed in an IDS)
- Removing the harmful packets
- Preventing communication from the source address
- Restarting the exchange
- Setting up firewalls to stop potential attacks
What is an IPS signature?
A signature-based IPS keeps track of attack signatures and compares network packets against this database. The IPS takes action if a packet matches one of the signatures. New threat intelligence must be added to signature databases on a regular basis as new cyberattacks appear and old ones change.
What are the three attributes of IPS signatures?
IPSs use three primary threat detection methods, exclusively or in combination, to analyze traffic.
#1. Signature-based detection:
Signature-based detection techniques examine network packets in search of attack signatures, which are distinct traits or actions linked to a particular danger. An attack signature is a set of code that is specific to a particular type of malware.
An intrusion prevention system that uses signatures keeps track of attack signatures and uses them to compare network packets. The IPS takes action if a packet matches one of the signatures. New threat intelligence must be added to signature databases on a regular basis when new attacks and modifications to current ones occur. Nevertheless, a signature-based intrusion prevention system cannot stop novel assaults that haven’t yet been examined for signatures.
#2. Anomaly-based detection:
Anomaly-based detection methods build a baseline model of typical network behavior using AI and machine learning and then keep improving it. When the IPS notices anomalies, such as a process consuming more bandwidth than usual or a device opening a port that is normally closed, it compares the current network activity to the model and takes appropriate action.
Anomaly-based intrusion prevention systems (IPSs) can frequently stop novel intrusions that could elude signature-based detection because they react to any unusual activity. Additionally, attacks that take advantage of software vulnerabilities before the program creator is aware of them might even be detected by them.
#3. Policy-based detection:
Policy-based detection procedures are based on security guidelines established by the security group. An attempt to breach a security policy is blocked by a policy-based intrusion prevention system (IPS).
To regulate which users and devices can access a host, for instance, a SOC may establish access control policies. An IPS that is policy-based will prevent unauthorized users from attempting to connect to the host.
Customization is possible with policy-based intrusion prevention systems, although the initial outlay may be substantial. It is necessary for the security team to draft extensive policies that specify what is and isn’t permitted across the network.
What are the four general types of IPS?
Businesses have a variety of options when it comes to intrusion protection systems:
- Network-based intrusion prevention system (NIPS). This system scans all network traffic for suspicious activity.
- Host-based intrusion prevention system (HIPS). This system resides on a single host and analyzes only traffic there.
- Wireless intrusion prevention systems (WIPS). This monitors wireless network traffic for signs of possible intrusion.
- Network behavior analysis (NBA). This analyzes network behavior for abnormal traffic flows that might indicate issues such as DDoS attacks or malware.
How to Prepare for IPS Security
#1. Identify the Segmentation of Your Network
- Finding Critical Assets: To start, figure out what your network’s critical assets are. These could be databases holding client information, servers holding sensitive data, or systems running proprietary software. The first step towards good security is identifying what needs protection.
- Establishing Segmentation Zones: Establish network segmentation zones after determining your essential assets. You need to group assets with comparable security needs together in these zones. You may, for instance, designate one area for client data servers and another for web servers that are visible to the public. Effective network traffic control and monitoring depend on this segmentation.
#2. Choosing the Proper Software and Hardware
- Hardware Requirements: The hardware on which your IDS/IPS solution will run should be carefully chosen. Processing speed, memory, storage, and network interfaces are a few things to take into account. Make sure your hardware can expand as necessary to accommodate the anticipated traffic demand.
- Software Requirements: Choose IDS/IPS software in accordance with the specifications of your company. Think about using commercial tools like Cisco Firepower or open-source alternatives like Snort. When choosing, consider functionality, scalability, and support choices.
- Verification of Compatibility: Make sure your selected IDS/IPS solution is compatible with your current network setup and security tools before installing it. Compatibilities may jeopardize security and cause problems with functionality.
#3. Installation and Configuration
- Installing sensors at strategic locations inside your network, such as junctions or points of entry and departure, is a good way to deploy IDS/IPS sensors. Sensors capture this network traffic and examine it for unusual activity. For threat detection to be successful, sensors must be positioned correctly.
- Make sure your sensors have access to the network traffic they require for monitoring by configuring network taps or span ports. To reflect traffic to the sensors without interfering with network activities, use network taps or SPAN (Switched Port Analyzer) ports.
- Initial Configuration and Setup: Observe the installation and configuration instructions supplied by the open-source project or your IDS/IPS vendor. Set up alerting systems, configure network interfaces, and create basic rules or signatures.
#4. Management of Rules and Signatures
- Fine-tuning Detection Rules: Make sure that your detection rules are tailored to the unique features and threat environment of your network. Review and modify rules frequently to lower false positives and improve detection precision.
- Modifying the Rules and Signatures: Keep your signatures and rules up to speed with the most recent threat intelligence by doing regular updates. This guarantees that your IDS or IPS can successfully identify new threats.
- Adaptation to Your Situation: Adapt your IDS or IPS to the requirements of your company. Adjust reporting, reaction actions, and alert thresholds to meet your security policy requirements.
#5. Monitoring and Alerts
- Real-time Monitoring: Keep an eye on IDS/IPS warnings and network traffic. To compile and evaluate data from several sensors, spend money on a centralized dashboard or SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) system.
- Alert Management: Create an alert escalation procedure to effectively prioritize and address alarms. While lower-priority signals can wait to be investigated, high-priority alarms must be addressed right away.
- Planning for Incident Response: Create a clear incident response strategy that specifies what to do in the case of a security occurrence. Teach this plan to every team member, and practice drills on a regular basis.
#6. Consistent Updates and Repairs
- Patch Management: Apply patches and updates to keep your IDS/IPS hardware and software current. Attackers may take advantage of security tool vulnerabilities, so it’s critical to update them on a regular basis.
- Performance Optimization: Keep an eye on your IDS/IPS system’s performance and adjust as necessary for maximum effectiveness. Configurations should be modified over time in response to changing threat landscapes and traffic patterns.
- Frequent Testing and Auditing: To find holes and weaknesses in your network, do frequent penetration tests and security audits. Make adjustments to your security plan based on the findings.
Advantages of Intrusion Prevention Systems
Numerous security advantages arise with an intrusion prevention system:
- IPS security offers fewer dangers for business and more security.
- IPS security offers more assault visibility, which leads to increased protection.
- IPS security’s enhanced effectiveness makes it possible to inspect all traffic for risks.
- It has fewer resource requirements for patching and vulnerability management.
Disadvantages of intrusion prevention systems
Disadvantages of intrusion prevention systems may include the following:
- IPS systems require careful tuning to minimize false positives while minimizing missed attacks.
- If an IPS system experiences a false positive, it may deny service to a legitimate user.
- If an organization does not have enough bandwidth and network capacity, an IPS tool could slow a system down.
- If there are multiple IPSes on a network, data will have to pass through each to reach the end user, causing slow network performance.
What is IPS vs. firewall?
A firewall uses ports or source/destination addresses, to determine whether to allow or reject communication. IPS, on the other hand, matches signatures to traffic patterns and decides whether to accept or reject packets depending on any matches.
What is the difference between IPS and IDS?
The primary distinction between IDS and IPS is what happens after a possible incident is identified.
- The IPS security system regulates who has access to an IT network and guards against misuse and assault. These systems are made to keep an eye on data about intrusions and take appropriate measures to stop an attack before it starts.
- The purpose of intrusion detection systems is to monitor a network and notify system administrators of any potential threats. They are not intended to prevent attacks.
What is the difference between IPS and WAF?
An IPS compares traffic to its signature database to identify known dangers. In addition to using signature-based detection to identify known threats, WAFs can also block threats that don’t match a known signature but detect irregular user behavior by utilizing anomaly-based (behavior-based) detection.
Is IPS a corrective security control?
An intrusion prevention system (IPS) is a corrective security control that can recognize a network attack and restrict that traffic from accessing the rest of the network.
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