In a world increasingly shaped by technological advancement, ensuring gender equality in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) is no longer a choice—it’s a necessity. Recognizing this, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi launched a pioneering initiative titled ‘Manasvi’ , a STEM mentorship programme for high school girls . The programme, unveiled in New Delhi today, is spearheaded by the institute’s Academic Outreach and New Initiatives Office . Manasvi is not merely an educational engagement; it is a transformative platform aimed at inspiring and empowering young girls to pursue careers in STEM, fields traditionally dominated by men. At the heart of Manasvi lies the ambition to address the deep-rooted gender disparity in STEM education and careers . Despite producing the largest number of science graduates globally, India continues to see disproportionately low female representation in STEM careers —a statistic that underscores the urgent need for su...
Understanding DDoS Attacks: How They Disrupt Websites and Networks
What is a DDoS Attack?
- A Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attack tries to overwhelm a website or network with too much traffic, making it slow or completely inaccessible.
- It is a type of Denial-of-Service (DoS) attack, which aims to disrupt applications or services.
Key Features of DDoS Attacks:
Multiple Sources of Traffic:
- DDoS attacks are unique because they send massive traffic from many different sources at the same time.
- This makes it harder to block the attack because it comes from multiple locations.
Use of Botnets:
- Attackers use botnets (hijacked devices like computers, phones, or IoT devices) to send fake traffic to a target website or network.
- These devices are often infected without the owners’ knowledge.
Impact on Services:
- Websites may become slow or stop working altogether.
- Essential services, such as government portals or financial platforms, may be disrupted.
Recent Example:
- Karnataka's Kaveri 2.0 portal was recently hit by a DDoS attack, making it hard for users to access services.
Why Are DDoS Attacks Dangerous?
- They can cause significant disruption to businesses, governments, and individuals.
- Prolonged attacks can lead to financial losses and reputational damage.
How to Protect Against DDoS Attacks:
- Use DDoS Mitigation Services: Specialized services can detect and block malicious traffic.
- Network Monitoring: Continuous monitoring helps identify and stop attacks early.
- Botnet Prevention: Regular device updates and security measures reduce the risk of becoming part of a botnet.
Conclusion:
Understanding DDoS attacks is essential for everyone who uses the internet. Organizations must stay vigilant and implement measures to prevent disruptions caused by these attacks.