With so much sensitive data now online, network safeguarding has become a big industry. In 2023, the average cost of a data breach was $4.45 million. To avoid shelling out millions, businesses are increasingly using Intrusion Detection Systems (IDSs) to identify and mitigate network anomalies that should show a security breach in action. 

IDS systems work by detecting unauthorized access and misuse within network traffic to ensure cybersecurity measures are working. Read on to learn the types of IDSs and how they can help your business maintain its network integrity. 

What Is an Intrusion Detection System?

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An Intrusion Detection System (IDS) acts as a watchful eye for computer networks. It keeps track of all the activities happening within the network by examining them against what the system considers “normal” behavior.

There are two main types of IDSs: network-based IDS (NIDS) and Host-based IDS (HIDS). 

NIDSs work similarly to security cameras placed at strategic points in a facility; they continuously monitor incoming and outgoing traffic by inspecting data packets for anomalies that indicate an unauthorized access attempt. 

A HIDS focuses on individual devices or hosts within the network like servers or workstations. It watches over any anomalies in file systems, application behavior, and system configurations. It then sends an alert to security teams, flagging anything from strange login attempts to unauthorized software installations.

Whenever an IDS spots a security issue in your network, like potential threats or anomalies, the system won’t hesitate to raise the alarm in the form of an alert. This will either be generated through log entries or by directly contacting administrators, who can then view the threat and take appropriate action. 

IDSs play a major role in businesses by making sure that unauthorized access attempts into networks are detected early enough before they can cause any major damage. They often work alongside malware software to stop cyber threats in their tracks. 

Safeguarding sensitive information requires businesses to monitor network activities and analyze data patterns constantly. IDSs help by guaranteeing the confidentiality of sensitive data in an organization and maintaining the security of digital assets in all areas of an organization.

7 Types of Intrusion Detection Systems

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Below are the seven most common types of IDSs used by businesses and organizations that need to prioritize data safety.

1. Network-based Intrusion Detection System (NIDS)

A network-based Intrusion Detection System (NIDS) works by monitoring traffic across your business’s entire network. It then analyzes smaller data packets, looking for suspicious patterns or any anomalies. 

NIDS are placed at strategic points within your network and capture and inspect all incoming and outgoing traffic instantly. 

Key Features Include:

• Real-time Analysis – A NIDS instantly detects potential threats by looking at network traffic in real time.
• Broad Coverage – By monitoring the entire network, a NIDS can detect widespread attacks that might bypass your individual host-based systems.
• Non-intrusive – These systems don’t interfere with normal network operations, so they’re an unobtrusive security measure.

How It’s Used in Practice:

A NIDS is great for large enterprises with more than one system. It’s an early warning system for large, network-wide threats, which helps security teams respond quickly to incidents and avoid damaging breaches. Implementing this into your tech stack can boost your enterprise architecture benefits. 

2. Host-based Intrusion Detection System (HIDS)

Host-based Intrusion Detection Systems (HIDSs) work on individual hosts or devices within a business’s network. They do this by checking the operation system and its application logs for any abnormal activities that may indicate an attack.

The Main Functions of HIDS Include:

• Detailed Monitoring – A HIDS performs a thorough analysis of what is happening on a specific host such as log analysis, file integrity checking, and monitoring system calls among other functions.
• Customization – These systems are made in such a way that they can be customized according to the security needs of each particular host, giving more focused protection.
• Incident Response – For post-incident analysis and recovery it may require more detailed forensic data which can be provided by a HIDS.

How HIDSs Work

These systems are best suited for safeguarding critical systems that require much closer attention like servers with very crucial information or endpoints which have higher exposure levels to threats.

3. Signature-based Intrusion Detection System

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Signature-based Intrusion Detection Systems work by analyzing a database of known attack patterns. They then compare a business’s incoming traffic against these attack methods to identify and stop threats. 

Key Features Include:

• High Accuracy – Signature-based systems are highly effective in identifying and blocking malicious activities that follow patterns. 
• Low False Positives – These systems tend to produce fewer false alarms since they rely on data and known patterns.
• Speed – They can quickly scan and compare traffic against a vast database of signatures.

Applications in Business:

A signature-based IDS works best in businesses that need high security and where known threats are a major concern. If you choose this type of IDS, you need to regularly update the signature database so it can stay effective against newer security threats. 

4. Anomaly-based Intrusion Detection System

Anomaly-based Intrusion Detection Systems work differently from other IDSs. They establish a baseline of “normal network behavior” and then flag any deviations from the norm that could be potential threats. Unlike a Signature-Based Intrusion Detection System that works on known threats, this type of IDS can detect attacks that are not known. 

Key Features Include:

• Detection of Unknown Threats – These systems can identify zero-day attacks and other unknown threats by focusing on anomalies.
• Behavioral Analysis – An anomaly-based IDS analyzes the behavior of network traffic, applications, and users to identify unusual activities.
• Continuous Learning – These systems often incorporate machine learning algorithms to improve their detection capabilities over time.

Real-Life Applications:

An Anomaly-based IDS would work best in a business where new and evolving threats are common. If your business faces sophisticated attacks that don’t match known signatures, an anomaly-based intrusion system could be a lifesaver. 

Implementing this system aligns with effective enterprise architecture management EAM, ensuring you have security measures that can adapt depending on your business’s cybersecurity needs.

5. Hybrid Intrusion Detection System

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Hybrid Intrusion Detection Systems combine the benefits of both signature-based and anomaly-based approaches to offer even more protection against all different types of security threats. 

Key Features Include:

• Enhanced Detection – Hybrid systems identify known threats through signatures while also detecting anomalies that could suggest an unknown attack is happening. 
• Less False Positives – These systems can lower false alarms by cross-referencing anomalies with known signatures.
• More Adaptable – A hybrid IDS can adapt to changing threats more effectively than single-method systems.

Applications of Hybrid Intrusion Detection Systems:

Hybrid IDSs work best in more complex network environments where a multi-layered security approach is needed. They provide a far more balanced solution that improves the accuracy of detecting real breaches. 

Software development companies or digital marketing firms can improve their digital resilience by integrating a Hybrid IDS with advanced content management systems like headless CMS. These platforms offer more flexible content delivery tools while upkeeping security protocols. 

6. Protocol-based Intrusion Detection System (PIDS)

Protocol-based Intrusion Detection Systems monitor and analyze network protocols within a business, ensuring all activities conform to set standards. They mark any deviations if anomalies are detected.

Key Features of PIDS:

• Protocol Compliance – A PIDS ensures that network communications adhere to standard protocols and detect any misuse or deviations.
• Focused Monitoring – By concentrating on specific protocols, these systems offer far more detailed insights into potential protocol-based attacks.
• Layered Security – PIDS adds an additional layer of security and complements other IDS types by mainly focusing on the integrity of protocols. 

Applications:

A PIDS best works in businesses where specific protocols are of massive importance. This is usually in a financial institution or a communication network since they detect and prevent protocol-backed attacks that might go unnoticed by other IDSs. 

For example, in communication networks relying on hosted VoIP services, a PIDS ensures that VoIP protocols are monitored closely to protect the business against unauthorized access attempts that could attack voice communications. 

7. Wireless Intrusion Detection System (WIDS)

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Wireless Intrusion Detection Systems (WIDS) work by monitoring wireless-only network traffic and detecting unauthorized access attempts. 

Key Features of WIDS:

• Wireless Traffic Monitoring – A WIDS analyzes traffic over wireless networks and identifies any potential threats.
• Detection of Rogue Devices – These systems detect unauthorized devices attempting to connect to wireless networks.
• Signal Analysis – A WIDS also monitors signal strength and patterns to identify potential jamming or even interference attacks.

Real-World Applications of WIDSs:

A WIDS only works for organizations with wireless networks, like big campuses or corporate offices. They work here by maintaining the security of wireless communications and preventing any unauthorized access. 

Final Thoughts

Intrusion Detection Systems are a must as part of your business’ modern network security measures. Using different types of IDSs relevant to your company’s needs will help you create a defense strategy that works against different types of threats. 

Whether you use network-based and host-based systems or hybrid and protocol-specific solutions, each type of IDS offers different features that will cater to your business’s different security needs. 

Incorporating these diverse IDS solutions into your cybersecurity strategy will improve your ability to detect and respond to any and all network anomalies, so you can enjoy a secure and resilient digital environment that works for your business.

The post 7 Types of Intrusion Detection Systems that Identify Network Anomalies appeared first on TuxCare.

*** This is a Security Bloggers Network syndicated blog from TuxCare authored by TuxCare Team. Read the original post at: https://tuxcare.com/blog/7-types-of-intrusion-detection-systems-that-identify-network-anomalies/