Intrusion Detection Systems $($IDS$)$ and Intrusion Prevention Systems $($IPS$)$ are tools that monitor network traffic in order to detect and swiftly alert users of any potentially hazardous or unauthorized activity. An Intrusion Detection System $($IDS$)$ only detects and alerts, but an Intrusion Prevention System $($IPS$)$ goes beyond that by actively impeding or forbidding suspicious activities. In your network design, Intrusion Detection Systems $($IDS$)$ or Intrusion Prevention Systems $($IPS$)$ may be used to monitor and regulate the flow of network traffic. If any malicious activity is detected, the IDS$/$IPS system may instantly alert the system administrator or take action to block the traffic.