What are IP Stressers/Booters and DDoS Testing Tools?

Read on to gain a deeper look at how these enterprising criminals work, as well as some tools you can use, like IP stressers, to help fight back and keep everyone safer.

What is a DDoS attack? The short version: a DDoS attack involves a hacker overloading a server/network with requests or packets of information to “confuse” its antivirus software. The hacker can then “sneak” through the server’s protections, and access information. All of this is done via an army of zombie bots (devices the hackers have infected with malware and now control) which can include hundreds or thousands of connected devices from across the globe, including your own.

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While most DDoS attacks are directed toward businesses, your computer is at risk of being “recruited” to be part of this bot army. So how does it all work? We’ll take a look.

What is an IP booter, and why do hackers use them? An IP booter is essentially a SaaS for hackers. The dark web is full of criminals who are willing to help people commit cybercrimes for a price. A hacker can find and pay for an IP booter, or DDoS booter service, ready to run as part of a DDoS attack. Paying for the booter service can save hackers months or years of work programming malware and then tricking computer users into downloading the malware to give remote access to their devices. Instead, if a hacker uses a booter, they have everything they need within minutes.

Can I fight a DDoS attack? Everyday people aren’t often at risk of a DDoS attack. Rather, we’re usually at risk of having our devices used as part of a hacker’s bot army. The good news is: there are DDoS tests that measure your device’s ability to thwart an attack. These tools can simulate an attack to show how many simultaneous requests your system can withstand.

Good antivirus software often includes DDoS testing tools like an IP stresser (also called a DDoS stresser). This type of tool will push your server’s bandwidth or the system’s overall capacity to determine your risk for a DDoS attack. After you’ve run a test, the software will suggest measures to apply to help prevent an attack and implement measures in case of an attack.

How do I know if my computer was used for a DDoS attack? Look for the telltale signs of malware. A DDoS attack will often show signs specific to your internet connection. For instance, your network is suddenly unable to connect. Maybe you can’t load certain websites. Or your device is slow or completely unresponsive.

What do I do if my computer is compromised? The first thing to do any time you feel that your computer has been compromised with malware is disconnect from the internet. Unplug your hardwired internet connection, turn off your Wi-Fi, and disconnect your router. You don’t want to give a hacker any connection to your home network because they can continue manipulating any devices still using your internet connection.

Next, run an antivirus scan and follow recommendations to remove or quarantine the malware. While quarantining malware won’t remove it from your computer, it will put it somewhere that it can’t further harm your device. Keeping your antivirus software up to date will ensure that it will identify malware and deal with it properly.

While not everybody is at risk of a direct DDoS attack, it’s still important to be aware of cybersecurity risks. Your computer and home network can be at risk of being compromised and used as a zombie bot in an army of bots in a large-scale DDoS attack. DDoS tools can help to ensure that your network and personal information is protected.