IPS

Stands for "Intrusion Prevention System." An IPS is a network security system designed to prevent malicious activity within a network. It is often used in combination with a network detection system (IDS) and may also be called an intrusion detection and prevention system (IDPS).

Like an IDS, an IPS may include hardware, software, or both. It may also be configured for a network or a single system. However, unlike IDSes, intrusion prevention systems are designed to prevent malicious activity, rather than simply detecting it.

When an IDS detects suspicious activity, such as numerous failed login attempts, it may log the IP address. If it detects a suspicious data transfer, it may check the packets against a database of known viruses to see if any any malicious code is being transferred. When an intrusion detected, an IDS compares the activity to a set of rules designed to prevent malicious activities from taking place. For example, when an IDS detects numerous failed logins, it may block the IP address from accessing any network devices. If it detects a virus, the data may be quarantined or deleted before it reaches its destination.

Examples of hardware-based IPSes include Cisco's IPS 4500 Series, IBM's Security Network "GX" systems, and HP's TippingPoint "NX" devices. Software IPS solutions include Check Point's IPS Software Blade and McAfee's Host Intrusion for Desktop.

Updated May 10, 2014 by Per C.

quizTest Your Knowledge

In what year did the iPhone first support emojis?

A
2008
0%
B
2010
0%
C
2012
0%
D
2014
0%
Correct! Incorrect!     View the Emoji definition.
More Quizzes →

The Tech Terms Computer Dictionary

The definition of IPS on this page is an original definition written by the TechTerms.com team. If you would like to reference this page or cite this definition, please use the green citation links above.

The goal of TechTerms.com is to explain computer terminology in a way that is easy to understand. We strive for simplicity and accuracy with every definition we publish. If you have feedback about this definition or would like to suggest a new technical term, please contact us.

Sign up for the free TechTerms Newsletter

How often would you like to receive an email?

You can unsubscribe or change your frequency setting at any time using the links available in each email.

Questions? Please contact us.