Security Asset Protection Professional Certification (SAPPC) Certification Practice Exam

What is the primary function of intrusion detection systems?

1. To manage internal security personnel.

2. To monitor financial transactions.

3. To detect unauthorized access to secure areas.

4. To assess personnel security clearances.

The correct answer is: To detect unauthorized access to secure areas.

The primary function of intrusion detection systems (IDS) is indeed to detect unauthorized access to secure areas, making this choice the most accurate. IDS are crucial components of security infrastructure as they monitor and analyze network traffic or physical environments to identify potential security breaches. When an intrusion is detected, the system typically alerts security personnel to investigate further or take immediate action to prevent a breach from occurring. This function is essential for maintaining the integrity of secure areas, whether they are physical locations or network environments, ensuring that any unauthorized attempts to access sensitive information or premises are promptly identified and addressed. In contrast, managing internal security personnel, monitoring financial transactions, and assessing personnel security clearances do not align with the primary capabilities of intrusion detection systems. These activities are part of broader security management practices but do not specifically pertain to the functioning or purpose of IDS.