An intrusion detection system (IDS) is a network security tool that monitors network traffic and devices for known malicious activity, suspicious activity or security policy violations. The IDS sends alerts to IT and security teams when it detects any security risks and threats. However, an IDS does not block or prevent the malicious activity, it only detects and reports it. Therefore, an IDS is not the lock on the door for networks and computer systems, nor is it effective against all vulnerabilities in networks and computer systems. An IDS can be combined with an intrusion prevention system (IPS) to block the malicious activity in real time.
References:
* What is Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS)? How does it Work? | Fortinet1
* Intrusion Detection System (IDS) - GeeksforGeeks2
* What is an intrusion detection system (IDS)? - IBM3