Advanced Placement (AP) Computer Science

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Enhance your readiness for the AP Computer Science exam with insightful quizzes. Deepen your understanding and master key concepts as you prepare for a successful test experience!

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What does DDoS stand for?

Dynamic Data Output System
Distributed Denial of Service
Data Delivery Operating System
Direct Denial of Service

The correct answer is: Distributed Denial of Service

DDoS stands for Distributed Denial of Service. This term describes a type of cyber attack where multiple compromised systems are used to overwhelm a target, such as a server, network, or website, causing it to become unavailable to its intended users. In a DDoS attack, the source of the attack is distributed across numerous systems, making it difficult to mitigate and trace back to a single origin. A key aspect of this type of attack is its scale and coordination; attackers often use networks of infected devices, known as botnets, to launch a simultaneous flood of traffic toward the target. This flood of requests can exhaust the target's resources, leading to downtime or degraded service, which is the primary objective of such attacks. Understanding this concept is crucial in computer science, especially in fields like cybersecurity, where the goal is to design systems that can withstand such challenges. Recognizing what DDoS entails helps students grasp the significance of security measures in software design and network management.