To fully comprehend the importance of data normalization in an Intrusion Prevention System, it is first necessary to understand what data normalization is and what it does, how it accomplishes its goal, and why it is so integral to maintaining security against the advanced evasion techniques used today.

The critical importance of data normalization can also be seen while reviewing security failures and fundamental design flaws in many IPS devices that lack such normalization.

Data normalization explained

Data normalization is the process of intercepting and storing incoming data so it exists in one form only. This eliminates redundant data and protects the data’s integrity. The stored, normalized data is protected while any appearance of the data elsewhere is only making a reference to the data that is being stored and protected in the data normalizer.


The normalizer’s job is to patch up the incoming data stream to eliminate the risk of evasion as well as ambiguities. The monitor then views the data in its pure, protected and normalized form. Varying forms of normalization exist on levels of increasing complexity. The complexity is due to the set of requirements that must be met to achieve normalization. The most basic is known as First Normal Form, which is often abbreviated 1NF. It is followed by Second Normal Form, or 2NF, Third Normal Form, or 3NF and can continue increasing in forms and complexity as required or desired.

Normalization benefits

Normalization plays a key role in the security of a network, provided that normalization extends to every protocol layer. One of the major benefits is the forced integrity of the data as data normalization process tends to enhance the overall cleanliness and structure of the data. Normalization significantly contributes to the fortification of a network, especially in light of typical networks’ three main weak points: traffic handling, inspection and detection.

Where many IPS devices go wrong

When it comes to traffic handling, many IPS devices focus on throughput orientation for the most rapid and optimal inline performance. This process, while attractive for its rapidity, makes it impossible for full normalization to take place. The data traffic is then inspected without normalization, offering prime opportunities for infiltration to take place. One may agree that a rapid and optimal output performance is useless if the payload is riddled with malicious invaders.