DDoS

A Distributed DoS Attack (DDoS) is similar to a DoS attack but originates from multiple, coordinated sources. As an example, a DDoS attack could proceed as follows:

An attacker builds a network of infected hosts, called a botnet. The infected hosts are called zombies. The zombies are controlled by handler systems.

The zombie computers constantly scan and infect more hosts, creating more zombies. When ready, the hacker instructs handler systems to make the botnet of zombies carry out a DDoS attack.

Click Play in the figure to view the animations of a DDoS attack.