Where should IPS/IDS devices be placed to monitor sensitive data effectively?

Placing IPS/IDS devices at the network perimeter is critical for effectively monitoring sensitive data because these devices act as a first line of defense against external threats. By monitoring both inbound and outbound traffic at the perimeter, they can detect suspicious activities and potential attacks before they penetrate deeper into the network. This strategic placement allows for real-time analysis of traffic patterns and anomalies, enabling proactive measures to protect sensitive data from unauthorized access or exfiltration.

Furthermore, the perimeter is often where external threats will attempt to gain access to the internal network, making it an ideal location for these security devices. They can be configured to alert administrators about potential breaches or malicious traffic, providing an essential layer of security that helps to safeguard sensitive information from both external attacks and internal misuse.

While other options, such as placing devices at user endpoints or within cloud infrastructure, might enhance security in specific scenarios, they do not provide the comprehensive oversight of traffic entering and leaving the organization. Monitoring traffic at the perimeter effectively captures a broader range of threats and is a foundational aspect of most security architectures.