What capability does a Next-Generation IPS provide?

Next-Generation Intrusion Prevention Systems (NGIPS) enhance traditional IPS capabilities by integrating context-aware information, such as user identity, application usage, and network events. This correlation allows NGIPS to detect and prevent sophisticated threats more effectively by understanding the "who, what, and where" of an attack. While an NGIPS can integrate with other security systems, its core distinguishing capability is this advanced correlation of user activity with network events for deeper threat analysis. Serving as a controller in a controller-based network is a function of Software-Defined Networking (SDN) controllers. Integrating with a RADIUS server for Layer 2 authentication is a function of network access control (NAC) or switches. Making forwarding decisions based on MAC addresses is a basic function of a Layer 2 switch.