firewallIDSIPSløsninger

Firewall, IDS, and IPS refer to three related network security technologies that, when deployed together, provide layered protection. A firewall enforces policy by allowing or blocking traffic between networks or segments based on rules. An intrusion detection system monitors network or host activity for signs of malicious behavior and generates alerts when suspicious activity is detected. An intrusion prevention system goes a step further by analyzing traffic in real time and taking automated action to block or mitigate threats, often inline with the data path.

Deployment and integration: Firewalls are commonly placed at network perimeters and between sensitive zones. IDS sensors can be network-based or host-based and are typically deployed passively to observe traffic without interrupting it. IPS sensors, also network-based or host-based, operate inline to block traffic that matches known threat signatures or meets abnormal behavior criteria. Many products integrate firewall, IDS, and IPS capabilities into a single appliance or software stack, simplifying management but requiring sufficient performance and careful tuning.

Capabilities: Firewalls implement access control, stateful inspection, NAT, VPN termination, and sometimes application-layer filtering. IDS/IPS systems use signature-based detection, anomaly detection, protocol analysis, and machine learning to identify known threats and deviations from normal behavior. IPS can automatically drop packets, reset connections, or re-route traffic to mitigate intrusions.

Limitations and considerations: Performance impact and scalability, false positives, and maintenance load are common concerns. Encrypted traffic poses visibility challenges for IDS/IPS, often requiring TLS inspection with privacy and compliance considerations. Effective deployment relies on accurate baselines, regular rule/signature updates, and integration with security information and event management systems.

Outcomes: When properly configured, firewall, IDS, and IPS provide defense in depth, facilitate incident response, and support regulatory compliance through documented access control, monitoring, and audit trails.