Tarpitting is a term used in computing that refers to deliberately slowing down network traffic by sending large amounts of useless data. The spelling of this word is based on the word "tar" and the verb "to pit". The IPA phonetic transcription of tarpitting is /ˈtɑːrpɪtɪŋ/. The stress is on the first syllable and the two consonants "rp" are pronounced together, making the word sound similar to "tar-pit-ing". This technique is often used in cyber attacks, where the aim is to disrupt or disable a website or network.
Tarpitting refers to a technique employed in computer science and networking that aims to mitigate the impact of network attacks, specifically Denial of Service (DoS) attacks. In this context, tarpitting can be defined as a method of intentionally slowing down the communication or response time between two networked devices, usually a server and a client, in order to frustrate and deter attackers.
The term "tarpit" originates from the concept of a physical tar pit, a sticky substance in which animals can get ensnared. Similarly, in networking, a tarpit is created by intentionally slowing down the communication flow by prolonging response times, thereby trapping malicious attackers in extended interactions. This strategy serves to consume their resources, such as network bandwidth, processing power, and memory, increasing the costs and efforts for attackers.
Tarpitting can be achieved through various mechanisms, such as intentionally introducing delays in response packets, sending redundant or meaningless data to keep the attacker engaged in unproductive activities, or even redirecting attackers to fake systems or honeypots that simulate legitimate targets.
While tarpitting aims to deter attackers and prevent successful DoS attacks, it should be implemented with caution to avoid affecting legitimate users and services. The duration and intensity of tarpitting should be carefully calibrated to strike a balance between hindering attackers and ensuring acceptable performance for legitimate network traffic.
Overall, tarpitting is an effective defensive technique that aims to slow down and frustrate attackers, reducing the impact of DoS attacks and enhancing the security of networked systems.
The word "tarpitting" is derived from the combination of two words: "tarpit" and "ting".
The term "tarpit" originally refers to a naturally occurring geological formation called an "asphalt seep" or "tar pit" that consists of heavy, sticky, and viscous tar or asphalt. These tar pits have existed for thousands of years and were commonly found in certain areas where crude oil or bitumen seeped to the surface.
The word "ting" is a verb form that originally means to make a sharp, high-pitched sound or a noise that resonates. This verb evolved from the Old English word "tynan" and has been used in various contexts to describe sharp sounds or noises.