In a denial of service (DoS) attack, hackers bombard a website (or other Internet-connected PCs) with so many simultaneous requests for information, that the site becomes very difficult to access for everyone else - including the website owner.

In many cases, DoS attacks can render a device or network unusable. Hackers have developed software to automate DoS attacks, meaning they can be launched by relatively unskilled individuals, and even by business rivals. While many DoS attacks are aimed at large, well-known businesses, a DoS attack could have a damaging effect on your business. Fortunately, there is good anti-DoS attack software available that offers protection from most DoS attack programs.

If your website is hosted by an external company, make sure they have implemented procedures and software to protect you against DoS attacks.