DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) is a type of cyber attack that aims to overload and overwhelm a website, server or network by generating a huge amount of traffic from multiple sources at the same time. The attack exploits the resources available to the target, making it impossible for legitimate users to access or use the service.
The method of carrying out a DDoS attack usually involves the exploitation of a bot network. A botnet consists of thousands of infected computers and devices controlled by the attacker without the owner's knowledge. By sending specially crafted commands, the attacker can activate all of these computers and devices to launch massive data requests against the target's server or network.
A prominent aspect of DDoS attacks is the real-time distribution of attack traffic from different sources. This makes it difficult for defense mechanisms to filter out the abnormally large traffic effectively. Attack intensity can vary from a few gigabits per second (Gbps) to terabits per second (Tbps), causing severe inoperability of the attacked system.
The purpose of a DDoS attack can be several: some are carried out as acts of revenge, others to extort money from companies or to create distractions during larger events. Attacks on financial institutions and government websites are also common.
To protect themselves against DDoS attacks, organizations implement various defense mechanisms that can detect and filter out the malicious traffic. It may include the use of firewalls, load balancing system and specialized network appliances designed to handle high volumes of traffic. Ours web hosting and IaaS solution has external protection against DDoS attacks.
