For those new to the world of intrusion detection systems (IDS), you may be unaware that there are multiple IDS detection types. Each one differs in how the IDS performs its detections and its source of data. This blog seeks to provide a brief overview of the various types of intrusion detection systems and show the benefits of selecting a network-based IDS or a more modern approach based on a signature-based IDS foundation.
There are three main types of IDS/IPS detection: anomaly-based, signature-based, and hybrid. These methods define how the IDS analyzes data to identify potential intrusions.
Each of these three detection methods (Anomaly-based, Signature-based, Hybrid) offers different strengths and weaknesses. Choosing the most suitable approach depends on factors like the specific security requirements of the network, the resource availability for managing the IDS, and the acceptable level of false positives.
There are generally two different ways to classify an IDS based on its deployment and data source:
1. Network-based Intrusion Detection System (NIDS): NIDS act as network monitoring devices deployed at strategic points within a computer network. Their primary function is to continuously capture and analyze network traffic data traversing a specific network segment. NIDS can be implemented in two primary ways:
NIDS typically utilizes network adapter promiscuous mode. This mode allows the NIDS to capture all network traffic on the attached network segment, regardless of its intended recipient. NIDS employs two main techniques for analyzing captured network traffic data: signature-based detection and anomaly-based detection.
2. Host-Based Intrusion Detection System (HIDS): In contrast to NIDS which focuses on network traffic analysis, HIDS provides security for individual devices (hosts) within the network. HIDS function as software agents deployed directly on the operating system of the host device itself. Their primary function is to monitor and analyze activity occurring on the host device. HIDS are deployed as software agents on individual servers, desktops, or laptops within the network. A single HIDS agent is typically installed on each host device for dedicated monitoring.
HIDS collects data from various sources on the host device, including:
HIDS primarily utilizes anomaly-based detection techniques. By analyzing the collected data, HIDS establishes baselines for typical host activity. Significant deviations from these baselines, such as unusual file access attempts or unexpected processes running, can indicate potential intrusions or suspicious behavior.
Contrary to what some believe, there are really five main components to most types of intrusion detection system:
- Signature-based Detection: This approach involves matching captured data against a database of known attack signatures. These signatures represent characteristic patterns of malicious activity.
Anomaly Detection: This technique involves employing statistical algorithms to establish baselines for normal network traffic or system activity. The engine then identifies significant deviations from these baselines as potential intrusions.
- Security Personnel: For investigation and response actions.
- Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) System: A central repository that aggregates security events from various sources, including IDS alerts, to facilitate a comprehensive view of security posture.
- Configure the IDS: This involves defining security rules for anomaly detection, managing sensor deployment, and establishing alert thresholds and destinations.
- Monitor System Activity: Security personnel can utilize the console to view real-time data on detected threats, analyze historical data, and investigate security incidents.
*It is important to note that not all IDS has a management interface available
- Attack Signatures: A well-maintained database of known attack signatures that facilitates signature-based detection.
- Security Rules: Custom rules defined by the security administrator to identify suspicious behavior specific to the organization's network or system.
- Alert History: A chronological record of all generated alerts, including timestamps, details of the detected activity, and the current investigation status.
What are the benefits of NIDS?
Network-based intrusion detection systems (NIDS) offer several advantages in bolstering your network security posture. Here are some key benefits:
It's important to note that IDS is not foolproof. These systems can generate false positives and may not be able to detect all types of attacks. However, the benefits they offer in terms of early threat detection, improved visibility, and enhanced security response make them a valuable tool for any organization looking to strengthen its cybersecurity defenses.
Explore a modern alternative
You need a network security platform that doesn’t generate an endless stream of useless alerts across part of your network, and instead automatically identifies alerts of interest and notifies you of only serious and imminent threats. Your organization deserves response-ready detection with visibility into your entire network regardless of the environment with easy access to all the contextual evidence you need to stop an attack before it can cause damage. Replace your legacy IDS with a modern network detection and response platform that gives you these features and more.
The Stamus Security Platform™ is a network-based threat detection and response solution that eliminates the challenges of legacy IDS while lowering your response time. Stamus Security Platform harnesses the full potential of your network, bringing state-of-the-art threat detection, automated event triage, and unparalleled visibility to the security team.
Book a demo to see if the Stamus Security Platform is right for your organization.
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