1.4. Who Is This Book For?

The book is meant for readers with a good background in general computer networking and some knowledge of general network security issues, but little specialized knowledge of DDoS attacks.

• It is primarily aimed at computer system (end host) and network administrators, those who are responsible for keeping computers and networks functioning in the face of failure (whether natural or human-induced). There should be sufficient depth and detail for technical readers, with many citations to provide the added detail this audience demands.

• It is also aimed at those in management and policy positions who need to understand how to manage businesses and other organizations that rely on the Internet functioning in an operational sense. There should be enough general and easy-to-digest information to bring the picture of DDoS into view for those who have never encountered this subject before, allowing them to see how they may be affected by this problem in the future or how to deal with it now if they are affected.

• This book will be useful to those with political and legal responsibilities, helping them understand how the technical and legal worlds intersect in the Internet. The concepts of cybercrime and cyberwarfare involve the potential use of denial of service as a weapon to disrupt or degrade critical infrastructures. Many services, such as computers designed for medical imaging, were not designed to be used in a hostile network environment. They use Common Off-The-Shelf (COTS) commercial operating systems as delivered by the vendor, and often without securing them or updating the software. These computers are vulnerable to potential denial of service or complete compromise. As more and more critical applications migrate to the Internet, the risk of potential loss of income or even loss of life grows. This book will provide political and legal representatives with the background necessary to make sound decisions on public policy and law enforcement. Understanding the risks and making appropriate investments in protective measures or new security research can help prevent this risky future.

• Finally, the book is meant for anyone who has heard rumors about DDoS and would like to understand more about the phenomenon (e.g., students, teachers, corporate employees, home business owners, journalists). These people will gain detailed knowledge of the problem and of the current defense approaches. Some of them may be intrigued enough to join the search for solutions!