NIDS and NDR

The field of network security has evolved from simple intrusion detection systems (NIDS) to more sophisticated Network Detection and Response (NDR) platforms. While NIDS primarily focused on detecting threats based on known signatures, NDR solutions use a combination of machine learning, behavioral analytics, and threat intelligence to identify and respond to more advanced and unknown threats.

Here are some of the commercially available and widely recognized NIDS and NDR solutions:

NDR solutions are designed to go beyond simple detection by providing rich context, automated analysis, and response capabilities.

• Darktrace: A well-known player in the NDR space, Darktrace uses a self-learning AI to create a “sense of self” for your network. It establishes a baseline of normal behavior and then detects and responds to subtle anomalies that may indicate a threat, without relying on signatures or rules. Their AI Analyst feature automates the investigation process.
• Vectra AI: The Vectra AI Platform is a leading NDR solution that focuses on AI-driven threat detection, investigation, and response. It provides comprehensive coverage across identity, public cloud, SaaS, and on-premises networks. Vectra’s platform uses behavioral models to identify unknown attackers and automates threat triage.
• ExtraHop Reveal(x): This platform provides real-time visibility into network traffic, leveraging machine learning to detect and classify critical events automatically. It’s a cloud-based solution that is known for its ability to provide deep visibility and help with forensic investigations.
• Cisco Secure Network Analytics (formerly Stealthwatch): Designed for organizations using Cisco networking equipment, this solution uses behavioral analysis and global threat intelligence to detect threats. It provides comprehensive visibility across private and public networks and can identify things like command-and-control attacks, DDoS, and insider threats.
• Arista NDR: Arista’s solution is designed for zero-trust security and is particularly strong at handling high-volume data environments. It uses AI to recognize and learn from malicious activity, automate threat hunting, and provide actionable insights for security teams.

While NDR is the more modern approach, many vendors still offer or include NIDS capabilities, which are often integrated into other security tools.

• Snort: Developed by Cisco, Snort is arguably the most famous open-source NIDS. It uses a signature-based detection method and is highly customizable. Many commercial products and managed security services use a version of Snort at their core.
• Suricata: A direct competitor to Snort, Suricata is another powerful open-source NIDS that is known for its multi-threading capabilities and ability to perform both intrusion detection and prevention.
• Zeek (formerly Bro): Zeek is an open-source NIDS that provides a high-level, scriptable language for network analysis. It is more focused on generating comprehensive network logs and a detailed record of network activity, which can then be used for threat hunting and forensic analysis.
• Trellix: Trellix offers a suite of network security products, including an Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) and NDR solution. Their platform provides multi-layered threat detection and accelerated investigation capabilities.
• Palo Alto Networks: Known for its next-generation firewalls, Palo Alto Networks also provides advanced threat prevention and an Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) that leverages deep learning and machine learning models to block unknown threats in real-time.

Many of these solutions are now part of broader platforms, often referred to as Extended Detection and Response (XDR), which integrates data from endpoints, networks, and cloud environments to provide a more holistic view of an organization’s security posture. Examples include Cortex XDR by Palo Alto Networks and CrowdStrike Falcon.