Which of the following describes the technology that alerts on potential security breaches?

The Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) is designed specifically to monitor network traffic for suspicious activity and potential security breaches. It goes beyond just alerting users; it actively analyzes the data packets that traverse the network, identifying patterns that may indicate malicious behavior. When a potential threat is detected, the IPS can take immediate action, such as blocking the traffic or alerting administrators, thereby preventing potential security incidents before they can escalate.

This proactive approach distinguishes the IPS from the other technologies listed. For instance, firewalls primarily act as barriers that control incoming and outgoing traffic based on predetermined security rules, but they do not have the same proactive monitoring capabilities. Antivirus software is designed to detect and eliminate malware on endpoints, focusing on known threats rather than continuously monitoring for suspicious behavior. Data Loss Prevention (DLP) works to protect sensitive information from being misused or exfiltrated, but it does not specifically monitor for security breaches in the way the IPS does.

In summary, the Intrusion Prevention System is the correct answer as it provides the specific capability of alerting and responding to potential security breaches, fulfilling a critical function in the overall cybersecurity strategy.