The cost of an Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) is highly variable, influenced by factors such as the vendor, specific features, deployment scale, and the system's capacity. While a universal "exact answer" for all IPS solutions is not possible due to this variability, specific models, like certain Fortinet Wireless Intrusion Prevention Systems (WIPS), have list prices ranging from approximately $157,293.95 to $272,243.95.
Fortinet Wireless Intrusion Prevention System (WIPS) List Prices
Below are the list prices for particular Fortinet WIPS models, showcasing a segment of the market for high-performance security solutions:
| Product Name | List Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| WIPS-1X5000 | $272,243.95 |
| WIPS-1X5000-VE | $272,243.95 |
| WIPS-1X2000 | $157,293.95 |
| WIPS-1X2000-VE | $157,293.95 |
Please note: These figures represent list prices for specific hardware or virtual appliance models and typically do not include additional expenses such as support contracts, maintenance, implementation services, or ongoing subscription fees for threat intelligence updates.
Key Factors Influencing IPS Costs
Beyond the initial purchase of hardware or software licenses, several factors contribute to the overall cost of an IPS solution:
- Deployment Model:
- Hardware Appliances: These are dedicated physical devices, like the Fortinet WIPS models listed, which often involve higher upfront costs but deliver dedicated performance and capacity.
- Virtual Appliances: Software-based versions that run on virtualized infrastructure, potentially offering flexibility and reduced hardware expenses.
- Cloud-based IPS (IPS-as-a-Service): Delivered as a subscription service, shifting costs from capital expenditure to operational expenditure.
- Performance and Capacity: IPS solutions are priced based on their ability to handle network traffic. Higher throughput (measured in Gbps), larger numbers of concurrent connections, and faster new session rates typically lead to higher costs, suitable for large enterprises or data centers.
- Feature Set: The more advanced the features an IPS offers, the higher its price. These can include:
- Deep Packet Inspection (DPI)
- Application control
- Zero-day threat detection capabilities
- Integration with other security tools (e.g., Security Information and Event Management - SIEM)
- Vendor and Brand Reputation: Established cybersecurity vendors, such as Fortinet, often command higher prices due to their extensive research and development, proven effectiveness, and comprehensive support.
- Licensing and Subscription Fees: Many IPS solutions require ongoing subscriptions for access to the latest threat intelligence, signature updates, and advanced features. Licensing models can vary, based on throughput, number of users, or protected assets.
- Support and Maintenance: Annual support contracts are critical for an IPS, ensuring access to technical support, software updates, and hardware replacement. These represent a significant recurring cost.
- Implementation and Training: Initial setup, configuration, and training for IT staff can require professional services, adding to the upfront investment.
Types of Intrusion Prevention Systems
Understanding the different types of IPS deployments can also help in evaluating costs:
- Network-based IPS (NIPS): Monitors network traffic at choke points to detect and prevent threats across an entire network segment.
- Host-based IPS (HIPS): Deployed on individual endpoints (servers, workstations) to protect them from local attacks and malicious activity.
- Wireless IPS (WIPS): Specialized systems designed to secure wireless networks, protecting against unauthorized access, rogue access points, and specific wireless attack vectors, as demonstrated by the Fortinet models.
- Network Behavior Anomaly Detection (NBAD): Focuses on identifying deviations from normal network behavior rather than relying solely on predefined attack signatures, often complementing traditional IPS.
Choosing the right IPS solution requires a thorough assessment of an organization's specific security needs, network architecture, and budget. For a broader understanding of how IPS works, you can explore resources like Cisco's explanation of IPS.
