Proceedings of the 4th Australian Information Security Management Conference

Intrusion detection systems consist of exterior and interior intrusion sensors, video alarm assessment, entry control, and alarm communication systems all working together. Exterior sensors are those used in an outdoor environment, and interior sensors are those used inside buildings. This chapter examines various aspects of exterior intrusion sensors, whose performance is described by three fundamental characteristics that include probability of detection, nuisance alarm rate, and vulnerability to defeat. It is important for the system designer to specify the detection criteria required or expected of a sensor or sensor system. This specification should be clear as to what will be detected, what actions are expected, and any other considerations such as weight or speed of movement. Nuisance alarm rate is a function of the number of nuisance alarms over a given time period. In an ideal sensor system, the nuisance alarm rate would be zero. It is found that passive sensors detect some type of energy that is emitted by the target of interest or detect the change of some natural field of energy caused by the target.

Exterior Intrusion Sensors

In an environment where technical solutions for securing networked systems are commonplace, there still exist problems in implementation of such solutions for home and small business users. One component of this protection is the use of intrusion detection systems. Intrusion detection monitors network traffic for suspicious activity, performs access blocking and alerts the system administrator or user of potential attacks. This paper reviews the basic function of intrusion detection systems and maps them to an existing end-user capability framework. Using this framework, implementation guidance and systematic improvement in implementation of this security measure are defined.

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Can Intrusion Detection Implementation be Adapted to End-User Capabilities?

The installation of a new intrusion detection system (IDS) is, of course, expected to improve site security. However, depending upon the way the system is used, it can, over time, actually degrade security. Proper use, control, and maintenance of the IDS is critical if site security is to be maintained. This paper discusses several operational issues that should be addressed in order to use an IDS effectively. Several anecdotes from the author's experience are given to illustrate proper and improper use of an IDS. Improper operational use of an IDS can render it ineffective. Applying these tips can help keep the IDS operating at peak performance

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D.G. Adams

Papers

Operational tips for improving intrusion detection system performance