What is the function of the Firebox's Intrusion Prevention Service (IPS)?

The Intrusion Prevention Service (IPS) of the Firebox is designed specifically to analyze network traffic in real time for any signs of malicious activity or threats. By actively monitoring incoming and outgoing data packets, the IPS can identify patterns that match known threats, such as attacks or exploits, and block them before they can cause harm. This proactive approach ensures that security measures are applied dynamically, safeguarding the network from vulnerabilities as they arise and mitigating potential damage from intrusions.

In contrast, the other options address functions unrelated to IPS. Eliminating all external IPs implies a brute-force approach that is neither practical nor effective for securing a network. Managing all network devices centrally involves network administration capabilities, which fall under a different category of network management. Facilitating the backup of firewall configurations pertains to administrative tasks rather than threat prevention, focusing instead on recovery and redundancy. Thus, the correct answer highlights IPS's integral role in delivering real-time defense against network threats.