What are the consequences of not configuring IPS on a firewall?

Configuring Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) on a firewall is crucial for maintaining network security. When IPS is not configured, the firewall has a significantly increased vulnerability to known threats and attacks. IPS works by monitoring network traffic for malicious activity and actively blocking potential threats before they can exploit vulnerabilities in the network. Without this layer of protection, the firewall cannot effectively identify or respond to threats, making the network an easy target for attackers who may exploit unpatched vulnerabilities or employ various attack methods.

While other factors such as firewall performance, network speed, and logging capabilities are important, the primary role of IPS in enhancing security makes increased vulnerability the most critical consequence of not having it configured. Ensuring that IPS is implemented helps in proactively defending against threats, which is essential for maintaining the integrity and security of the network.