What is the main function of an Intrusion Prevention System (IPS)?

The main function of an Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) is to block suspicious traffic in real time. An IPS actively analyzes and monitors network traffic to identify and prevent potential threats or attacks as they occur. It does this by examining packets and other data that flow through the network to detect malicious patterns or behaviors. When a potential security threat is identified, the IPS can take immediate action, such as blocking the traffic or alerting system administrators, thus providing a proactive defense against intrusions and vulnerabilities.

While analyzing traffic patterns is important for various security measures, it primarily pertains to detecting anomalies rather than actively preventing them. Monitoring bandwidth is focused on tracking the amount of data transferred across a network and does not involve the security functions of an IPS. Encrypting sensitive data is relevant for securing information but does not align with the primary role of an IPS, which is to act as a barrier against potential intrusions. The key aspect of an IPS is its ability to respond proactively, ensuring that harmful traffic is intercepted before it can exploit vulnerabilities.