Table of Contents
We have already discussed Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) and Firewall in detail in our previous blogs. In this blog, we will focus on the comparison between the three.
Similarities between IDS, IPS and Firewall
Before moving on to the differences, we must points that necessitate to compare the three terms, i.e. similarities between them. Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS), and firewalls are all security technologies designed to protect networks, but they differ in functionality and purpose. Despite these differences, they share some similarities:
- Primary Function: Network Security – All three systems are designed to improve the security of a network by monitoring traffic and enforcing policies to protect against threats.
- Traffic Monitoring – IDS, IPS, and firewalls monitor incoming and outgoing network traffic. IDS and IPS focus on detecting or preventing intrusions, while firewalls manage traffic based on defined rules (e.g., blocking or allowing traffic).
- Placement in Network – All three are typically deployed at key points in a network such as at the perimeter (e.g., between a trusted network and the internet), or within internal network segments to protect against lateral movement of threats.
- Rules-Based Operation – They all rely on a set of rules or signatures to identify malicious traffic or enforce security policies. For example:
IDS/IPS use signatures and anomaly detection techniques to recognize attacks or suspicious activities.
Firewalls use rules to allow or block traffic based on IP addresses, ports, and protocols.- Complementary to Each Other – These systems are often deployed together to form a comprehensive security solution. A firewall provides the first line of defense, while IDS and IPS provide deeper inspection and can detect more sophisticated threats that pass through the firewall.
- Threat Detection – All of them are capable of detecting malicious behavior such as denial-of-service (DoS) attacks, unauthorized access attempts, and suspicious data transfers.
- Integration with Logging Systems – They all generate logs and alerts based on events detected in network traffic, which can be integrated with security information and event management (SIEM) tools for further analysis and incident response.
Differences: IDS vs IPS vs Firewall
A very common query asked by network and security administrators is the difference between Firewall, IPS and IDS.
All the 3 terms related to providing security to network and are considered essential components of a Network especially Data Center Network.
You can watch this video for better understanding:
(or continue reading)
- The main difference being that firewall performs actions such as blocking and filtering of traffic while an IPS/IDS detects and alert a system administrator or prevent the attack as per configuration.
- A firewall allows traffic based on a set of rules configured. It relies on the source, the destination addresses, and the ports. A firewall can deny any traffic that does not meet the specific criteria.
- IDS is a passive device which watches packets of data traversing the network, comparing with signature patterns and setting off an alarm on detection on suspicious activity. On the contrary, IPS is an active device working in inline mode and prevent the attacks by blocking it.
Comparison Table
Furthermore, below table enumerates the difference between IDS vs IPS vs Firewall in detail –
Download the IDS vs IPS vs Firewall detailed comparison in PDF format.
Key Differences
- Firewalls primarily control access between trusted and untrusted networks using predefined rules.
- IDS detects and alerts on malicious activity but does not block traffic.
- IPS actively blocks malicious traffic and takes corrective actions in real-time.
Understanding these similarities and differences is crucial for designing a layered security strategy.
Continue Reading:
Cisco IPS/IDS Interview Questions
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
I am here to share my knowledge and experience in the field of networking with the goal being – “The more you share, the more you learn.”
I am a biotechnologist by qualification and a Network Enthusiast by interest. I developed interest in networking being in the company of a passionate Network Professional, my husband.
I am a strong believer of the fact that “learning is a constant process of discovering yourself.”
– Rashmi Bhardwaj (Author/Editor)
