DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service)

A DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attack is a malicious attempt to disrupt the normal functioning of a targeted server, service, or network by overwhelming it with a flood of internet traffic. This type of attack is coordinated by using multiple computers or devices, often spread across different locations, which send an enormous amount of requests to the target all at once. Because the system can't handle the sudden surge in activity, it becomes slow, unavailable, or even crashes completely.

DDoS attacks are typically carried out using a network of compromised computers, known as a "botnet." These computers are infected with malware that allows the attacker to control them without the user's knowledge. Once the attacker has control, they can send commands to all the infected devices, directing them to send vast amounts of traffic to the target. This synchronized assault can be difficult to stop because it comes from many different sources, making it hard to block the traffic without affecting legitimate users.

DDoS attacks can be executed in several ways. One common method is a "volumetric attack," which focuses on overwhelming the target with massive amounts of data. Another way is a "protocol attack," which exploits weaknesses in specific protocols to consume server resources. A third type is an "application layer attack," which targets the specific applications running on a server, such as a website or online service, making them unavailable to legitimate users.

The impact of a DDoS attack can be severe, causing significant downtime, lost revenue, and damage to a company's reputation. For individuals or businesses, it can mean the temporary loss of access to important services or information.

Defending against DDoS attacks involves several strategies. These can include increasing the network's bandwidth, using specialized DDoS mitigation services, and setting up firewalls and intrusion detection systems to identify and block malicious traffic. Monitoring traffic patterns and having an incident response plan can also help in quickly identifying and mitigating an attack.

Overall, understanding and preparing for DDoS attacks is crucial for maintaining the availability and reliability of online services.