Which of the following best describes the primary function of an IDS?

An Intrusion Detection System (IDS) is primarily designed to continuously monitor network traffic for security breaches and suspicious activities. By analyzing the data packets flowing through the network, an IDS can identify potentially harmful actions, such as unauthorized access attempts or attempted attacks on systems. This monitoring enables organizations to detect threats in real time and respond accordingly, thereby enhancing the overall security posture.

The focus of an IDS is on surveillance and detection rather than prevention. Unlike other security measures that may actively block threats, an IDS primarily alerts administrators to incidents that may require further investigation. This proactive monitoring function is vital for maintaining the integrity and security of the network, allowing for timely responses to potential security incidents.