Which of the following best describes database activity monitoring (DAM)?

Database activity monitoring (DAM) is best described as a technology that monitors and analyzes database activities in real-time to provide insights into the data access and usage patterns. Being categorized as host-based or network-based reflects the deployment methodologies of DAM solutions. Host-based DAM monitors database activity directly on the database server by deploying agents on the host, while network-based DAM monitors database traffic over the network, analyzing packets to determine database interactions without direct access to the database server itself.

This dual approach allows organizations to implement comprehensive monitoring strategies based on their specific architecture and security needs. It focuses on the detection of unauthorized access attempts and unusual behaviors that may indicate potential threats, contributing to enhanced security and compliance efforts regarding sensitive data management.

The other options mention encryption and data masking, which are distinct data protection technologies serving different purposes. While encryption secures data by converting it into unreadable formats, and data masking obscures specific data elements, DAM serves as a surveillance tool that does not replace these fundamental protective measures but complements them within a broader security framework.