What does Host Intrusion Detection Systems (HIDS) primarily monitor?

Host Intrusion Detection Systems (HIDS) are designed to monitor the events and activities occurring on a specific host or endpoint device. This includes tracking changes to system files, monitoring user actions, and detecting unauthorized access or other suspicious activities. By focusing on a singular host, HIDS can provide detailed insight into the security and integrity of that particular system, which is essential for detecting indicators of compromise and responding to potential threats effectively.

The nature of HIDS allows it to analyze logs and alerts generated by the host itself, making it valuable for identifying intrusions that may not be visible through network monitoring alone. This localized approach helps ensure that any anomalous behavior is quickly detected, improving the overall security posture of the system.