What systems monitor the network and report security issues?

Intrusion detection systems (IDS) are specifically designed to monitor network traffic for suspicious activity and potential security breaches. These systems analyze data flows through network protocols, identifying unusual patterns that may indicate a security incident, such as unauthorized access attempts or deviations from normal traffic behavior.

When an IDS detects a potential threat, it generates alerts to inform system administrators of the potential security issues. This proactive monitoring capability is crucial in safeguarding networks from attacks by detecting malicious activities in real-time, allowing for timely responses.

In comparison, while other options like firewalls and intrusion prevention systems play important roles in network security, their functions differ significantly from those of an intrusion detection system. Firewalls focus primarily on controlling incoming and outgoing traffic based on predetermined security rules, and intrusion prevention systems go a step further by not only monitoring but also taking action to block detected threats. However, the primary function of reporting security issues falls squarely within the capabilities of an intrusion detection system, making it the appropriate choice in this instance.