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What Is a DDoS Attack and How Do You Defend Against It?
What a DDoS attack is, the 3 main attack types and the protection options that fit small and mid-size business websites and apps.
Cybersecurity
What is Botnet?
Quick answer
A network of compromised computers or devices controlled remotely by an attacker, often used for spam, fraud, or DDoS attacks.
Botnet, explained
Each infected machine in a botnet, sometimes called a zombie, runs malware that lets an attacker send it commands from a command-and-control server. Owners usually have no idea their device is involved.
Botnets can include laptops, servers, routers, and especially poorly secured Internet of Things devices like cameras that still use default passwords. The Mirai botnet, first seen in 2016, hijacked large numbers of IoT devices to launch major distributed denial-of-service attacks. Botnets are also used to send spam, steal credentials, mine cryptocurrency, and commit ad fraud. Defenses include changing default passwords, applying firmware updates promptly, segmenting home and office networks, and monitoring for unusual outbound traffic.
Related terms
Credential Stuffing
An attack that uses usernames and passwords stolen from one breach to try logging in to many other websites automatically.
DDoS AttackDistributed Denial of Service: an attack that floods a website or network with traffic from many sources to make it unavailable.
FirmwareLow-level software stored on a hardware device that controls how the device starts up and operates.
HoneypotA decoy system or resource deliberately set up to attract attackers so their methods can be detected and studied.
Internet of ThingsThe network of physical devices, from home appliances to industrial sensors, that connect to the internet to collect and share data.
Guides that mention Botnet
Types of Malware Explained: Viruses, Trojans, Spyware and More
A reference guide to the common types of malware, how each one spreads, what it does and the warning signs to watch for.
What Is the Internet of Things (IoT)? Examples, Risks and Security Basics
What the internet of things is, how it works, real home and business examples, and the security basics every buyer should check before connecting a device.