Final answer:
An Intrusion Detection System (IDS) is best suited to provide information about attacks against a network without stopping them. It monitors network traffic and alerts administrators of potential threats. While it is vital for security monitoring, an IDS should be used in conjunction with other security measures.
Step-by-step explanation:
The device that is most suited for providing information about attacks against a network, without actively stopping them, is an Intrusion Detection System (IDS). An IDS is designed to monitor network traffic and alert administrators about potential malicious activities. It achieves this by analyzing traffic patterns and comparing them to known attack signatures, or by detecting anomalous behavior that deviates from the established baseline of normal network activities.
A network-based IDS, specifically, is placed at a strategic point within the network to monitor traffic to and from all devices on that network. Unlike an Intrusion Prevention System (IPS), an IDS does not have the capability to block the detected attack traffic. Instead, it sends alerts to the security manager or a centralized monitoring system to inform about the possible threat, allowing the security team to take appropriate action.
An IDS is an invaluable tool for security monitoring because it provides insights into the types of attacks the network is facing, which can help in strengthening the overall security posture and in developing effective countermeasures. However, it is important to complement an IDS with other defense mechanisms like firewalls, anti-virus software, and an IPS for a more robust security implementation.