What is the main difference between an Intrusion Detection System (IDS) and an Intrusion Prevention System (IPS)?

The main difference between an Intrusion Detection System (IDS) and an Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) lies in their operational capabilities regarding security threats. An IDS is designed to detect and alert on potential security breaches by monitoring network or system activities for malicious behaviors or policy violations. It generates alerts for security personnel to investigate incidents.

In contrast, an IPS goes a step further by not only detecting intrusions but also actively taking measures to block them in real time. When a threat is identified, the IPS can automatically take action, such as dropping malicious packets or blocking traffic from identified malicious sources. This proactive approach to threat management distinguishes it from the more passive nature of an IDS.

The other options do not accurately capture this fundamental operational difference. For instance, stating that an IDS prevents attacks while an IPS detects them misrepresents their functions. Both systems are involved in the detection process, but the IPS has the additional capability of prevention. Also, the claims about traffic analysis and encryption do not pertain directly to the core functionalities of these systems. Lastly, categorizing them based on hardware and software simply oversimplifies and inaccurately describes their roles in cybersecurity infrastructure.