What does an intrusion detection system (IDS) do?

An intrusion detection system (IDS) is specifically designed to monitor network traffic and analyze it for any signs of suspicious or malicious activity. This involves assessing data packets that traverse the network to identify patterns or behaviors associated with potential security threats, such as unauthorized access attempts, malware activity, or other anomalies that could indicate a breach.

By actively monitoring network traffic, an IDS can provide alerts to system administrators or security personnel about potential threats, enabling a timely response to mitigate risks. This constant vigilance is crucial for maintaining the security posture of an organization, as it helps in recognizing threats as they occur or immediately after they happen, allowing for swift action to be taken.

The other options pertain to different aspects of cybersecurity. Encrypting sensitive data refers to the process of encoding information to protect it from unauthorized access. Storing user credentials securely focuses on safe management practices for user login information to prevent unauthorized access. Providing internet access control relates to managing and enforcing policies regarding network access for various users or devices. These functions are important but distinctly separate from the primary role of an IDS, which is centered on the detection of intrusion attempts and monitoring network security.