ISC2 CC Network Security Practice Question
A security team deploys a passive device that monitors network traffic and generates alerts when it detects suspicious patterns, but it does not take any action. This device is best described as a:
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Intrusion Detection System (IDS)
An Intrusion Detection System (IDS) is passive, monitoring and alerting without blocking traffic, unlike an IPS which is inline.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Web Application Firewall (WAF)
Why it's wrong here
WAF is an inline proxy for web traffic.
- ✓
Intrusion Detection System (IDS)
Why this is correct
Correct. IDS is passive, alerting only.
- ✗
Intrusion Prevention System (IPS)
Why it's wrong here
IPS is inline and can block traffic.
- ✗
Stateful firewall
Why it's wrong here
Stateful firewalls track connection state and can block traffic.
Go deeper
Related to this question
Learn chapter
Introduction to Security Principles
Key term
IPS
An Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) is a network security device that monitors traffic in real time and automatically blocks threats before they reach your systems.
Key term
Intrusion Detection System
An Intrusion Detection System (IDS) is a security tool that monitors network traffic or system activities for malicious actions or policy violations and sends alerts to administrators.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This CC practice question is part of Courseiva's free ISC2 certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the CC exam.