Is There a Way to Identify a DDoS Attack

It is quite difficult to make a distinction between DDoS attacks and common network activity or service disruptions. There might be technical problems in a specific network or maintenance processes being performed by system administrators that may be misconstrued as denial-of-service attack. However, the following symptoms could be indicators that a DoS or DDoS attack is in progress:

•           Radical increase in the amount of spam you get in your account.

•           Inability to access any website.

•           Abnormally sluggish performance of the network (i.e., accessing websites, opening files, etc.)

•           Specific websites are constantly unavailable.

How Do You Avoid a DDoS Attack?

The sad fact is there are no simple solutions to take the edge off the threat of DDoS attacks; neither is there a foolproof prevention plan with effective ways to avoid becoming the victim of a DoS or DDoS attack. However, there are some steps and strategies that can help reduce the likelihood of attackers using your computer to launch a DDoS attack, as well as minimize the impact of a large-scale attack.

•           Install and maintain adequate anti-virus software.

•           A good technical solution is to put limits on the types of traffic you allow into your network. One way of addressing this is to install a firewall and configure it to restrict traffic coming into and leaving your computer. Upstream providers would also need to asses appropriate limits to traffic levels that may present problems at various points in the network.

•           Stick to good security habits and practices when distributing your e-mail addresses. Applying e-mail filters is also a good way to manage unwanted traffic.

•           Most crucial of all, use a web hosting service provider that has proven capability to foil DDoS attacks. You may be tempted to go for low priced plans with sloppy security measures; you could undermine and jeopardize your online business (especially if it is a thriving one). Remember that you stand to lose thousands of dollars with a single error; it is therefore vital that you choose the most qualified web hosting company
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