What role do intrusion prevention systems (IPS) serve in Fortinet products?

Intrusion prevention systems (IPS) in Fortinet products are designed primarily to detect and block malicious traffic in real-time. They analyze network traffic for signs of malicious activity, such as attempts to exploit vulnerabilities, unauthorized access, or other threats. When suspicious or harmful traffic is identified, the IPS can either alert administrators or take proactive measures to block the offending traffic, thereby protecting the network from potential breaches or damage.

This function is crucial because it helps organizations maintain the integrity and security of their network environments while minimizing the potential impact of cyber threats. Unlike approaches that may focus solely on network performance, such as enhancing speed or managing configurations, the IPS specifically targets the identification and neutralization of threats, making it a vital component of Fortinet’s security offerings.