What is the primary function of an Intrusion Detection System?

The primary function of an Intrusion Detection System (IDS) is to passively monitor and detect intrusions within the network. An IDS analyzes network traffic for signs of suspicious activity or policy violations and alerts administrators when potential threats are identified. This is crucial for maintaining the security of the network, as it allows for quick awareness of unauthorized access attempts or other malicious activities without interrupting or altering the flow of network operations.

In contrast to systems that actively block incoming data, the IDS typically focuses on detection rather than prevention. While other options like data backups and enhancing user authentication processes are important aspects of cybersecurity, they do not directly relate to the primary role of an IDS, which is surveillance and detection of potential threats rather than active intervention or data management.