Abstract: An improved network intrusion detection and response system and method is disclosed for detecting and preventing misuse of network resources. More particularly, the system and method dynamically self-adjusts to changes in network activity using a plurality of alert levels wherein each successively higher alert level triggers a corresponding heightened security response from the networked computer being misused. These heightened alert levels are integrated on both the system (individual node) and the network level. The disclosed intrusion detection and response system is also implemented at low cost using currently-existing hardware and software (i.e., network computers).

Abstract: Intrusion Prevention Systems (“IPSs”) are used to detect and/or prevent intrusion events from infiltrating a computer network. However, in large computer networks the IPSs cannot conduct their analysis on network data traffic quickly enough in the network core to meet the demand placed on them by the computer networks, thereby causing delays in the transmission of network data traffic from a source to a destination. To prevent this delay, the IPSs can be configured to intelligently communicate with a high-capacity network switch. The IPSs conduct the initial inspection of the network data traffic flows to determine if an intrusion event is present. However, after the initial inspection, the IPS can inform the switch of what actions to take for future traffic flows including determining which future traffic flows are inspected by the IPSs and which future traffic flows are allowed to be blocked or transmitted to their destination by the switch.

Abstract: Protecting computer networks by altering unwanted network data traffic. An Intrusion Protection System (IPS) or an Intrusion Detection System (IDS) can monitor network data traffic comprising byte information. This network security device analyzes network data traffic at the byte level to determine whether an intrusion event is present in the network data traffic. If an intrusion event is detected, the network security device alters at least a portion of the relevant byte information to prevent the occurrence of a successful intrusion event at the intended destination. This altered byte information is then passed to the destination by the network security device. If an intrusion event is not present, the network security device passes the byte information without alteration to the destination.

Abstract: A system and method for preventing misuse conditions on a data network are described. Embodiments of the system and method evaluate potential network misuse signatures by analyzing variables such as the state of the network and/or target, the context in which the potential misuse signatures are detected, the response/reaction of the target and/or the fingerprint of the target. These and other variables may be factored in to the misuse determination, either alone, or in combination.

Abstract: A system and method for preventing misuse conditions on a data network are described. Embodiments of the system and method evaluate potential network misuse signatures by analyzing variables such as the state of the network and/or target, the context in which the potential misuse signatures are detected, the response/reaction of the target and/or the fingerprint of the target. These and other variables may be factored in to the misuse determination, either alone, or in combination.