iSACA Cybersecurity Fundamentals Certification Practice Exam

What is a key characteristic of an Intrusion Detection System (IDS)?

1. It can block incoming threats

2. It provides real-time alerts to administrators

3. It analyzes user behavior

4. It requires no maintenance

The correct answer is: It provides real-time alerts to administrators

An Intrusion Detection System (IDS) is primarily designed to monitor network traffic and detect suspicious activities that may indicate a security breach. One of its key characteristics is the ability to provide real-time alerts to administrators when it identifies potential threats. This function enables security teams to respond promptly to incidents and mitigate risks effectively. The ability to alert administrators in real time is crucial for maintaining the security posture of an organization. By promptly notifying security personnel of detected threats, either through specific signatures or anomalies in traffic patterns, organizations can investigate and take action against potential intrusions before they lead to significant harm. The other characteristics listed, such as blocking threats, analyzing user behavior, or requiring no maintenance, are associated more closely with different security technologies or approaches. For example, blocking incoming threats aligns more with an Intrusion Prevention System (IPS), which actively prevents detected threats. Analyzing user behavior is typically a function of User Behavior Analytics (UBA) or similar behavioral monitoring tools. Additionally, cybersecurity systems, including IDS, require regular maintenance to stay effective against evolving threats, which contradicts the idea of no maintenance being needed.