What is a DDoS attack?

A Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack is a malicious attempt to disrupt the normal functioning of a targeted server, service, or network by overwhelming it with a flood of traffic. This type of attack typically involves multiple compromised computer systems, which are often part of a botnet, working together to inundate the target with requests. The goal is to exhaust the resources of the target, rendering it unavailable to legitimate users.

DDoS attacks can vary in intensity and duration, and they often exploit multiple protocols and vectors simultaneously, making them particularly challenging to defend against. Understanding what a DDoS attack entails is crucial for network administrators and cybersecurity professionals, as it forms a significant part of the threat landscape in information technology. This knowledge aids in the development of robust defensive strategies to protect systems and ensure the availability of services.