Network-Based IDS vs. Host-Based IDS: Advantages of Network-Based IDS

Advantage of Network-Based IDS over Host-Based IDS

Question

Although host-based and network-based IDSs perform similar functions and have similar capabilities, which of the following is an advantage of a network-based IDS over a host-based IDS, assuming all capabilities are equal?

Answers

Explanations

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A. B. C. D.

A.

A network-based IDS has the advantage of being segregated from host systems, and as such, it would not be open to compromise in the same manner a host- based system would be.

Although a network-based IDS would be external to system patching, this is not the best answer here because it is a minor concern compared to segregation due to possible host compromise.

Scalability is also not the best answer because, although a network-based IDS does remove processing from the host system, it is not a primary security concern.

Network access is not a consideration because both a host-based IDS and a network-based IDS would have access to network resources.

Both host-based intrusion detection systems (HIDS) and network-based intrusion detection systems (NIDS) are designed to monitor network traffic and detect any suspicious activity or potential security threats. However, there are some key differences between these two types of IDS.

Host-based intrusion detection systems (HIDS) are software applications installed on individual hosts, such as servers or workstations, to monitor activity on those systems. HIDS typically monitor activities such as logins, file access, system calls, and other activities that occur on the host. They are useful for detecting attacks that originate from within the host or that target specific applications or services running on the host.

On the other hand, network-based intrusion detection systems (NIDS) are designed to monitor network traffic in real-time and detect suspicious activity or potential security threats. NIDS typically operate by analyzing network packets and looking for signs of intrusion or attack, such as unusual traffic patterns or unexpected behavior. They are useful for detecting attacks that originate from outside the host, such as network-based attacks or malware infections.

Assuming all capabilities are equal, the advantage of a network-based IDS over a host-based IDS is scalability. Network-based IDS can be deployed on the network, typically at the perimeter or at strategic points within the network, and monitor all network traffic in real-time. This makes them more scalable than host-based IDS, which must be installed on each individual host, making it more difficult to manage and monitor in large-scale environments.

Additionally, network-based IDS can monitor network traffic regardless of the type of device or operating system running on it, whereas host-based IDS are limited to monitoring the specific host on which they are installed.

In summary, the advantage of a network-based IDS over a host-based IDS is scalability, as it can monitor all network traffic in real-time, regardless of the device or operating system, making it more effective in large-scale environments.