CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) — Question 242

Which of the following is a major difference between an IPS and IDS?

Answer options

• A. An IPS needs to be installed in line with traffic and an IDS does not.
• B. An IPS is signature-based and an IDS is not.
• C. An IPS is less susceptible to false positives than an IDS.
• D. An IPS requires less administrative overhead than an IDS.

Correct answer: A

Explanation

The correct answer is A because an IPS (Intrusion Prevention System) indeed needs to be positioned in line with the traffic to actively block threats, while an IDS (Intrusion Detection System) can operate in a passive mode. Options B, C, and D are incorrect as they misrepresent the functions and characteristics of IPS and IDS systems.