Distributed Denial-of-Service Attack (DDoS) Glossary Definition

In a distributed denial-of-service attack (DDoS attack), the incoming traffic flooding the victim originates from many different sources. This effectively makes it impossible to stop the attack simply by blocking a single source.

A DoS or DDoS attack is analogous to a group of people crowding the entry door of a shop, making it hard for legitimate customers to enter, disrupting trade.

See also: DDoS.

Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) is a Web hosting or deployment concept used to publish, operate, monitor, or maintain websites and online applications.

Distributed Denial-of-Service Attack is a Network Security concept used to protect traffic, access, devices, applications, or segments from misuse or attack.

In security and compliance work, this term helps teams describe controls, risks, identity practices, standards, audits, or protective technologies. It is relevant when managing access, reducing exposure, documenting safeguards, or demonstrating accountability.

Web teams use this concept when moving code or content between environments, operating production sites, and coordinating maintenance.

Related concepts include Web Server and Deployment.

Additional Resource: MDN Web Docs Glossary.

Security and infrastructure teams use this concept to reduce exposure, enforce access boundaries, inspect traffic, and limit the impact of compromise.

Related concepts include Routing.

Additional Resource: NIST Computer Security Resource Center Glossary.