Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS): What they are and how they stop threats

For a modern business, firewalls, access cards, and security cameras are a must. But used alone, they fall short. As passive defenses, they can alert you to a threat, but they don’t stop it from happening. Instead of waiting for your security team to respond to an alert, a proactive solution can identify and shut down an attack in real time – no human intervention needed.

This is what an Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) can bring to your security strategy. An IPS goes beyond detection and into prevention.

This guide will walk you through how they work, the types available, and the practical challenges you might face. We'll also cover benefits, use cases, and best practices.

What is an Intrusion Prevention System (IPS)?

An Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) identifies malicious activity and policy violations and takes steps to prevent them in real-time.

Unlike a passive Intrusion Detection System (IDS), which only detects and alerts, an IPS can respond to a threat without human intervention. It can block malicious traffic, quarantine compromised devices, or trigger a physical lockdown in a matter of seconds.

If an IDS is like a remote employee checking CCTV feeds, an IPS is like an on-site security guard, spotting a threat and stepping in to intervene immediately.

How Intrusion Prevention Systems work

The average cyber attack takes place in 10 minutes, so time is of the essence. IPS solutions use multiple methods to identify and stop threats across physical and digital environments.

Continuous monitoring and threat detection

An IPS works a constant shift, analyzing activity in its domain. It monitors network traffic and analyses data from security sensors, responding to two main types of threat:

• Signature-based detection looks for patterns that match known threats or attack signatures. For example, the digital signature of a specific malware strain or the sound of a glass break.

• Anomaly detection establishes a baseline of normal network or access activity. It then flags any deviations from the norm, identifying threats that lack a known signature.

Automated response and prevention

The real power of an IPS is its ability to act. When it detects a threat, the system responds automatically based on pre-defined rules to stop an intrusion.

An IPS can automatically:

• Block malicious IP addresses

• Terminate suspicious network connections

• Quarantine compromised digital account holders

In a physical environment, an IPS can:

• Lock down a restricted area

• Set off alarms and alert on-site staff

• Disable stolen or misused access credentials

Unified and intelligent response

Modern IPS solutions integrate with other security systems for a coordinated and intelligent response.

Imagine an IPS that’s connected with your video, alarm, and access control systems. It’d be able to identify a threat, record footage, notify relevant personnel, and update access permissions in real time.

How Intrusion Prevention Systems stop threats

Intrusion Prevention Systems prevent attacks and breaches using a host of real-time mechanisms. Some of the most common you’ll find across providers include:

Blocking malicious traffic

An IPS can stop a cyberattack by blocking malicious IP addresses, dropping suspicious data packets, or terminating connections from known attackers.

Quarantining compromised accounts

If an IPS detects a compromised account holder or device, it quarantines them from the network. This prevents attacks from spreading and gives your security team time to investigate and resolve the issue.

Physical lockdown

In the event of a physical intrusion, an IPS can lock down the area and stop an intruder from moving further into the building.

Disabling credentials

If an IPS detects the misuse of an access credential, such as an account holder trying to access a restricted area with a card that was just reported stolen, it disables the credential.

Sending instant alerts

An IPS sends instant alerts to security teams with the information they need to respond to a threat, while the system takes action to stop it.

Types of Intrusion Prevention Systems

IPS solutions come in various forms to protect both digital and physical environments. Find an overview of the common types in the table below.

Common use cases for Intrusion Prevention Systems

IPS solutions are used in lots of industries alongside Intrusion Detection Systems to provide holistic and proactive protection – in real-time – against a range of threats. We’ve listed just a few common examples, but there are countless more use cases for IPS depending on the size and type of business you run.

• Unauthorized server room access: Often used in technology and finance, physical IPS prevents unauthorized access to a server room. It can detect and block unauthorized access attempts, disable stolen or misused access credentials, and lock down the server room.

• Brute-force login attempts: Common within healthcare and government organizations, a NIPS prevents brute-force login attempts to a secure network by detecting and blocking repeated login attempts from a single IP address.

• Badge misuse or tailgating: Popular in pharmaceuticals and manufacturing, a physical IPS detects badge misuse or tailgating in a secure area. It can block unauthorized access attempts, trigger alarms, and alert security teams.

• Threats to critical infrastructure: For utility and energy providers, a hybrid IPS works to protect a critical infrastructure facility from both physical and cyber attacks. It can detect and block unauthorized network connections, lock down a secure area, and provide real-time alerts to security teams.

• Multi-site enterprise threats: A hybrid IPS works well across a multi-site retail or hospitality business. It can provide a unified security solution that protects against both digital and physical threats across multiple sites. 

Security best practices for IPS deployment

Successfully integrating an IPS calls for a strategic approach, covering the setup process to longer-time thinking. If you’re just getting started with IPSs, acquaint yourself with these best practices for smooth and straightforward deployment.

• Regular updates: Regularly update your IPS detection signatures and access rules to protect against new and evolving threats.

• Layered integration: Integrate your IPS with firewalls, access control, and surveillance systems. This provides a unified and coordinated security system that can detect, prevent, and respond to threats.

• Test lockdown procedures: Regularly test your lockdown procedures to ensure your IPS is set up effectively.

• Monitor alerts: Monitor your IPS alerts to fine-tune your false positive thresholds. This is crucial for reducing false alarms and ensuring that your security team only responds to genuine threats.

• Staff training: Train your staff to recognize and respond to IPS events. They will feel confident and equipped should an incident occur.

Challenges of managing an IPS

While an IPS offers significant benefits, it also comes with potential challenges. There will be some specific issues that are unique to your organization, but we can share some of the more universal challenges to watch out for.

Balancing sensitivity

An IPS requires fine-tuning to balance alarm sensitivity. If it is too sensitive, it can generate too many false alarms. If it is not sensitive enough, you may miss genuine threats.

Minimal disruption

An IPS must be configured so it doesn’t disrupt legitimate access. If security is too tight, you risk affecting productivity.

Integration complexity

Integrating an IPS with other security systems can be complex. You’ll need a strategic approach and expert input.

Performance concerns

In high-traffic environments, an IPS can impact network performance. It’s important to choose a system that can operate at scale.

Ongoing maintenance

Never set and forget, an IPS requires ongoing maintenance and expert oversight.

Pros and cons of Intrusion Prevention Systems

An IPS might seem like the answer to your security prayers, but you should also be aware of the challenges and issues that can come with it. We’re trying to put across a balanced view here and you should know the full picture.

How Acre Security supports IPS implementation

An Intrusion Prevention System needs a strong, unified platform to be effective, and Acre Security delivers exactly that. Our solutions include advanced panels and intuitive software, enabling real-time monitoring and centralized incident response.

A core strength of Acre's approach is integration. Our solutions connect with physical access control systems, video surveillance, and physical alarm systems, allowing you to configure an automated response to intrusion and empower your security teams to manage threats proactively.

We provide scalable, compliant protection for enterprises and multi-site facilities across industries, ensuring your IPS can grow with your organization. And with continuous updates and proactive threat intelligence, your defenses are always primed for evolving threats. For holistic, powerful intrusion prevention that protects your business from all angles, get in touch today.

Round the clock threat protection

An Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) is a vital component of a modern security strategy. It provides proactive, real-time protection against both digital and physical threats. With a comprehensive IPS solution, you’re safeguarding your organization and ensuring compliance.

Get one step ahead of your next security incident: Contact Acre Security today to learn how we can help you with your IPS implementation.