What is a common tool used for network intrusion detection?

A common tool used for network intrusion detection is the Intrusion Detection System (IDS). An IDS is specifically designed to monitor network traffic for suspicious activity and potential security breaches. It analyzes the data packets traveling across the network, looking for patterns or signatures that match known threats. When such activity is detected, the IDS can alert network administrators about possible intrusions, allowing for a rapid response to mitigate potential damage.

In contrast, a firewall primarily serves to control and filter incoming and outgoing traffic based on predetermined security rules, rather than monitoring for threats within allowed traffic. Antivirus software focuses on detecting and removing malicious software from endpoints rather than on overall network activity. Data encryption secures data by converting it into a format that cannot be read by unauthorized users, but it does not play a role in detecting intrusions. Each of these tools serves an important function in a comprehensive security strategy, but the IDS is specifically tailored for identifying potential threats within network traffic.