What is a key component of an intrusion prevention system?

A key component of an intrusion prevention system (IPS) is that it executes immediate response actions upon detecting suspicious activities or threats. An IPS not only monitors network traffic for anomalies but also actively takes steps to mitigate these threats in real-time. This can include blocking malicious traffic, restricting access to certain network segments, or alerting system administrators to potential breaches. The ability to respond instantly is crucial, as it helps protect the network from potential damage and data breaches by acting swiftly before threats can escalate.

In contrast, other options, while important in a broader context of security, do not serve the same immediate function as response actions. Data encryption primarily focuses on protecting data confidentiality rather than on detecting or responding to intrusions. Network segmentation is a security measure that can help contain breaches but does not directly involve intrusion prevention actions. User training is vital for raising awareness and improving security practices among personnel but does not serve as a component of an IPS itself.