1.Network Security vs Data Security: What’s the difference?

1. Definition

 Network Security
Refers to the protection of the integrity, confidentiality, and accessibility of computer
networks and data during transmission. It focuses on safeguarding the infrastructure and
controlling access to it.
 Data Security
Refers to protecting data at rest, in use, and in transit from unauthorized access,
corruption, or theft, regardless of where it is located (e.g., servers, databases, devices).

2. Focus Area

 Network Security:
o Firewalls
o Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS)
o Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
o Network segmentation
o Secure network protocols (e.g., HTTPS, SSL/TLS)
 Data Security:
o Encryption (file- or database-level)
o Access controls and permissions
o Data masking and tokenization
o Data loss prevention (DLP)
o Secure data storage and backups

3. Primary Objective

 Network Security: Prevent unauthorized access to the network and protect the
communication channels.
 Data Security: Protect the data itself, whether it's being transmitted, processed, or stored.

4. Threat Focus

 Network Security:
o Man-in-the-middle attacks
o Denial of service (DoS/DDoS)
o Unauthorized network access
 o Packet sniffing
 Data Security:
o Data breaches
o Insider threats
o Data corruption or loss
o Unauthorized file access

5. Tools & Technologies

Network Security Tools Data Security Tools

Firewalls, IDS/IPS Encryption software
Network Access Control (NAC) Data Loss Prevention (DLP) tools
Secure routers & switches Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)
VPNs, proxies File-level encryption, DRM

6. Scope of Protection

 Network Security: Broader scope — protects the pathways and infrastructure over
which data travels.
 Data Security: More focused — protects the content itself, regardless of how or where
it's stored or transmitted.

2. Explain the term packet switched WAN.

A Packet-Switched Wide Area Network (WAN) is a type of data communication network that
breaks data into small packets and transmits them over a shared network infrastructure.
These packets may take different paths to reach their destination, where they are reassembled
into the original message.

Key Concepts

 Packet Switching
Data is divided into small units called packets. Each packet contains:
o Part of the original data
o Source and destination addresses
o Sequencing information
 WAN (Wide Area Network)
A WAN connects devices over large geographical areas (e.g., cities, countries). Packet-
switched WANs are used by ISPs, enterprises, and telecom providers to deliver internet
and communication services.
How It Works

1. Data is split into packets at the sender's end.

2. Each packet is sent independently through the network.
3. Packets may travel different routes based on network traffic and availability.
4. At the destination, packets are reassembled in the correct order.

Examples of Packet-Switched WAN Technologies

 Internet (the largest packet-switched network)

 Frame Relay (older tech, mostly obsolete now)
 MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching)
 ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode)
 IP-based networks (IPv4, IPv6)

Benefits

 Efficient use of bandwidth (multiple packets share the same lines)

 Scalability
 Cost-effective compared to circuit-switched networks
 Fault-tolerant (packets can reroute if there's a failure)

Packet-Switched vs Circuit-Switched WAN

Feature Packet-Switched WAN Circuit-Switched WAN

Connection setup No dedicated path Dedicated path established first
Efficiency High (shared lines) Lower (reserved lines)
Example Internet, MPLS PSTN, traditional telephone networks
Suitability Data communication Voice communication (historically)

3. Describe the term Malware and the various forms of Malware.

What is Malware?
Malware is short for malicious software — any software intentionally designed to disrupt,
damage, steal, or gain unauthorized access to computer systems, networks, or data. It's a broad
category that encompasses various harmful programs and code.

Common Forms of Malware

Here are the main types of malware, each with its own behavior and intent:

1. Viruses

 Description: Malicious code that attaches itself to legitimate programs or files and
spreads when the infected program is run.
 Key Trait: Requires user action (like opening a file) to activate.
 Effect: Can corrupt, delete, or steal data.

2. Worms

 Description: Self-replicating malware that spreads without user interaction.

 Key Trait: Exploits vulnerabilities to spread across networks.
 Effect: Slows down networks, consumes bandwidth, causes widespread damage.

3. Trojans (Trojan Horses)

 Description: Malware disguised as legitimate software.

 Key Trait: Does not self-replicate; relies on users being tricked into installing it.
 Effect: Creates backdoors, steals data, installs additional malware.

4. Spyware

 Description: Software that secretly monitors user activity and collects information.
 Key Trait: Often bundled with freeware or installed without consent.
 Effect: Steals passwords, tracks keystrokes, gathers personal data.

5. Adware
  Description: Automatically delivers unwanted advertisements.
 Key Trait: Often not directly harmful but intrusive.
 Effect: Slows down systems, compromises user experience, may lead to other malware.

6. Ransomware

 Description: Encrypts a victim's data and demands payment (a ransom) to restore access.
 Key Trait: Blocks access to data until a ransom is paid, often in cryptocurrency.
 Effect: Can cripple businesses, hospitals, and governments.

7. Rootkits

 Description: Malware designed to gain and maintain undetected administrative access

to a system.
 Key Trait: Very stealthy, often modifies system files and processes.
 Effect: Hides other malware, provides long-term control to attackers.

8. Keyloggers

 Description: Monitors and records keystrokes.

 Key Trait: Used to capture login credentials, credit card numbers, and private messages.
 Effect: Facilitates identity theft and financial fraud.

9. Botnets

 Description: Networks of infected computers (bots or zombies) controlled remotely by

attackers.
 Key Trait: Used for large-scale attacks like DDoS or spam campaigns.
 Effect: Turns victim machines into tools for cybercrime.

5. Defined Hackers and phases of hacking process.

Hackers are individuals who use their technical knowledge and programming skills to gain
unauthorized access to systems, networks, or data. The term can have both positive and negative
connotations, depending on the hacker's intentions.
Types of Hackers (Based on Intent)

Type Description
Ethical hackers who test systems for vulnerabilities to help organizations fix
White Hat
them.
Black Hat Malicious hackers who break into systems for personal gain or to cause harm.
Gray Hat Hackers who may violate laws or ethical standards but not for personal gain.
Script Kiddies Inexperienced hackers who use pre-made tools without deep understanding.
Use hacking for political or social activism (e.g., defacing websites, leaking
Hacktivists
info).
Work for government agencies to infiltrate enemy systems or defend against
State-Sponsored
threats.

Phases of the Hacking Process

The hacking process typically follows a structured cycle. These phases apply to both ethical
hacking and malicious hacking (though intent differs).

1. Reconnaissance (Information Gathering)

 Goal: Gather as much information as possible about the target.

 Types:
o Passive: No direct interaction (e.g., using search engines, social media).
o Active: Direct interaction (e.g., pinging servers, port scanning).
 Tools: WHOIS, Nmap, Google hacking, Shodan

2. Scanning

 Goal: Identify open ports, live systems, services, and vulnerabilities.

 Activities:
o Port scanning
o Network mapping
o Vulnerability scanning
 Tools: Nmap, Nessus, OpenVAS

3. Gaining Access

 Goal: Break into the system or network using vulnerabilities found.

  Methods:
o Exploiting software bugs
o Password cracking
o Social engineering
 Tools: Metasploit, Hydra, John the Ripper

4. Maintaining Access

 Goal: Ensure continued access to the system for future exploitation.

 Methods:
o Installing backdoors
o Creating user accounts with admin rights
o Deploying rootkits
 Purpose: Long-term data theft, surveillance, or control

5. Clearing Tracks (Covering Tracks)

 Goal: Erase evidence of hacking activity to avoid detection.

 Actions:
o Deleting logs
o Disabling security alerts
o Using encryption or obfuscation
 Ethical hackers skip this phase or document their activity instead.

6. Reporting (Ethical Hacking Only)

 Goal: Document findings and suggest fixes.

 Includes:
o Vulnerabilities found
o Methods used
o Risk assessment
o Recommendations for remediation

6. What is network sniffing? Why network sniffing is important?

Network sniffing is the process of capturing and analyzing data packets that travel across a
network. It allows an individual (often called a sniffer) to monitor network traffic in real-time
and inspect the data being transmitted.
How Network Sniffing Works

Network sniffers (also called packet analyzers) work by putting a device’s network interface
card (NIC) into promiscuous mode, allowing it to capture all traffic on a network segment, not
just traffic addressed to that device.

Popular Network Sniffing Tools

 Wireshark (most widely used)

 Tcpdump
 Ettercap
 Cain & Abel (legacy)
 Kismet (for wireless networks)

Types of Network Sniffing

Type Description
Passive Monitors unencrypted traffic on a network without interfering. Mostly used on
Sniffing hub-based networks.
Active Involves injecting packets into the network to gather more information (used on
Sniffing switched networks).

Why Network Sniffing Is Important

✅ For Network Administrators (Legitimate Uses)

1. Troubleshooting and Diagnostics

Helps identify network issues like packet loss, latency, or misconfigured devices.
2. Performance Monitoring
Allows administrators to assess bandwidth usage and application performance.
3. Security Monitoring
Detects unusual or malicious activity, such as unauthorized devices or intrusions.
4. Compliance Auditing
Ensures that sensitive data (e.g., credit card numbers) is not transmitted unencrypted.
5. Protocol Analysis
Understand how network applications communicate and debug custom protocols.

6. What is an MITM attack and their types of attacks with example.

A Man-in-the-Middle (MITM) attack is a cyberattack where a malicious actor secretly
intercepts and possibly alters the communication between two parties who believe they are
directly communicating with each other.

In other words, the attacker places themselves between the sender and receiver, eavesdropping,
modifying, or stealing data without either party’s knowledge.

How MITM Works (Simplified)

1. Victim A sends a message to Victim B.

2. The attacker intercepts the message, possibly changes it, and forwards it to B.
3. Both A and B think they are talking directly to each other — but the attacker is reading,
stealing, or altering the conversation.

Why MITM Attacks Are Dangerous

 Sensitive data (e.g., login credentials, banking info, personal messages) can be stolen.
 Sessions can be hijacked.
 Trust between parties can be exploited or broken.
 Malware can be injected into communications.

Types of MITM Attacks (with Examples)

Type Description Example

Capturing unencrypted data Capturing login credentials sent over
1. Packet Sniffing
traveling over a network. HTTP (not HTTPS).
2. Session Taking over an active session Stealing a session cookie to impersonate a
Hijacking between a user and service. user on a website.
Downgrading a secure HTTPS
Intercepting traffic and forcing browsers to
3. SSL Stripping connection to HTTP, making data
use HTTP so passwords are exposed.
readable.
Redirecting a user to a fake
Redirecting www.bank.com to a fake site
4. DNS Spoofing website by altering DNS
that looks like the real bank.
responses.
5. Email Intercepting and possibly alteringAn attacker reads or changes emails
Hijacking email communication. between a client and their bank.
A fake "Free_Coffee_Shop_WiFi"
6. Wi-Fi Setting up fake Wi-Fi hotspots to
captures customer logins and personal
Eavesdropping intercept data.
data.
 Type Description Example
Impersonating a trusted IP address An attacker pretends to be a known server
7. IP Spoofing
to gain access or redirect traffic. to gain user trust.
Sending fake ARP messages to
Used in LAN environments to redirect
8. ARP Spoofing link the attacker’s MAC address
internal traffic through attacker.
with another IP.

Real-World Example

 Public Wi-Fi Attack:

An attacker sets up a Wi-Fi hotspot named "Airport_WiFi". Unsuspecting users connect
to it and log into their bank accounts. The attacker captures credentials via a MITM
attack and uses them later for fraud.

How to Prevent MITM Attacks

 Use HTTPS websites (look for padlock symbol).

 Avoid public Wi-Fi or use a VPN when connecting.
 Implement strong encryption for all data in transit.
 Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).
 Employ Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and firewalls.
 Regularly update software and devices to patch vulnerabilities.

7. Explain the term SQL and SQL injection. How does it work?

SQL stands for Structured Query Language. It is the standard language used to create, read,
update, and delete (CRUD) data in relational databases like MySQL, SQL Server,
PostgreSQL, and Oracle.

Common SQL Commands

Command Purpose
SELECT Retrieve data from a table
INSERT Add new data
UPDATE Modify existing data
DELETE Remove data
CREATE Create new tables or databases
DROP Delete tables or databases
Example:

sql
CopyEdit
SELECT * FROM users WHERE username = 'admin';

What is SQL Injection (SQLi)?

SQL Injection is a type of cyberattack where an attacker inserts or "injects" malicious SQL
code into an application's input fields to manipulate the backend database.

It allows attackers to:

 View data they shouldn't (e.g., user passwords)

 Bypass login forms
 Modify or delete database data
 Execute administrative operations
 Possibly take full control of the server (in advanced cases)

How SQL Injection Works

1. A vulnerable application takes user input (like a username or search query) and inserts it
directly into an SQL query without proper validation or sanitization.
2. The attacker provides malicious input to alter the SQL query logic.

Basic Example of SQL Injection

Suppose a login form uses the following SQL query:

sql
CopyEdit
SELECT * FROM users WHERE username = 'user_input' AND password = 'user_input';

If the attacker enters:

 Username: admin' --
 Password: (blank)

The query becomes:

sql
CopyEdit
SELECT * FROM users WHERE username = 'admin' --' AND password = '';

 --is a SQL comment, which causes the rest of the query to be ignored.
 The query effectively becomes:
SELECT * FROM users WHERE username = 'admin';
→ Logging in as admin without a password.

Types of SQL Injection

Type Description
Classic SQLi Injecting SQL code to manipulate queries directly.
Blind SQLi When there is no error message, but attacker infers data through behavior.
Time-Based Blind Uses delays (e.g., SLEEP(5)) to infer if queries are successful.
Error-Based SQLi Forces the database to produce error messages that reveal information.
Union-Based SQLi Uses the UNION operator to extract data from other tables.
Malicious data is stored first, then used in a query later (e.g., profile
Second-Order SQLi
update).

8.What is computer Security? Explain the Challenges of Computer Security.

What is Computer Security?

Computer Security, also known as cybersecurity or information security, refers to the

protection of computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, theft, damage,
disruption, or misuse. It involves safeguarding hardware, software, data, and networks to ensure
confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information.

Key Goals of Computer Security (CIA Triad):

1. Confidentiality – Ensuring information is not accessed by unauthorized individuals.

2. Integrity – Protecting information from being altered by unauthorized users.
3. Availability – Ensuring that authorized users have access to information and systems
when needed.

Challenges of Computer Security

Computer security faces several challenges due to evolving technologies, increasing threats, and
the complexity of modern systems. Below are some major challenges:
1. Increasing Sophistication of Attacks

 Hackers use advanced tools and techniques like AI, zero-day exploits, and social
engineering.
 Malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks are more targeted and harder to detect.

2. Lack of User Awareness

 Many security breaches are caused by human error.

 Users may fall for phishing scams or use weak passwords.

3. Rapid Technological Changes

 Constant evolution of technology (e.g., IoT, cloud computing) introduces new

vulnerabilities.
 Security systems struggle to keep pace with these developments.

4. Complexity of Systems

 Modern systems are highly interconnected and complex.

 This makes it difficult to secure every component and identify vulnerabilities.

5. Insider Threats

 Employees or trusted individuals can intentionally or unintentionally compromise

security.
 Insider threats are harder to detect compared to external attacks.

6. Mobile and Remote Access

 Increased use of mobile devices and remote work exposes systems to more threats.
 Securing remote connections and personal devices is more challenging.

7. Lack of Standardization

 Different platforms and systems have varied security standards.

 Inconsistency can lead to gaps and vulnerabilities.

8. Resource Constraints

 Organizations may lack the financial or human resources to implement strong security
measures.
 Small businesses are especially vulnerable due to limited budgets.

9. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

  Keeping up with changing regulations (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA) adds complexity.
 Non-compliance can result in legal consequences and data breaches.

10. Supply Chain Vulnerabilities

 Third-party vendors and suppliers may introduce security weaknesses.

 Organizations are often exposed through less secure partners.

8. Explain the term network security policy.

What is a Network Security Policy?

A Network Security Policy is a formal set of rules and guidelines that govern how an
organization protects its network infrastructure and the data that flows through it. It outlines the
security measures, protocols, and behaviors required to safeguard the network from unauthorized
access, misuse, data breaches, and other security threats.

Key Objectives of a Network Security Policy

1. Protect data integrity, confidentiality, and availability.

2. Define authorized access and usage of network resources.
3. Identify and mitigate potential security risks.
4. Establish incident response and recovery procedures.
5. Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

Components of a Network Security Policy

1. Access Control Policy

o Defines who can access the network and under what conditions.
o Includes authentication and authorization rules.
2. Acceptable Use Policy (AUP)
o Describes how users are permitted to use network resources.
o Restricts activities like downloading illegal content or visiting unsafe websites.
3. Security Monitoring and Logging
o Details how network activity is monitored and logged.
o Helps in identifying and investigating security incidents.
4. Network Device Security
o Provides guidelines for securing routers, switches, firewalls, etc.
o Includes configuration standards and firmware updates.
5. Data Protection Policy
o Addresses data encryption, backup, and secure transmission.
 o Ensures sensitive information is protected during storage and transfer.
6. Incident Response Plan
o Specifies actions to take when a security breach occurs.
o Includes detection, reporting, containment, and recovery steps.
7. Remote Access Policy
o Outlines how remote users can securely connect to the network.
o May include VPN usage, multi-factor authentication, and endpoint protection.
8. Network Segmentation
o Divides the network into zones to limit access and contain breaches.
o Enhances security by isolating sensitive data and systems.
9. Employee Training and Awareness
o Educates users on best practices and threats.
o Reinforces their role in maintaining network security.
10.Define Attack. Enlist the different attacks and explain it.

Definition of Attack (in Computer Security)

An attack in computer security refers to any attempt to expose, alter, disable, destroy, steal, or
gain unauthorized access to or make unauthorized use of a computer system, network, or data.

Attacks can be carried out by individuals (hackers), groups, or automated malicious software,
and they target system vulnerabilities to compromise confidentiality, integrity, or availability
(CIA) of information systems.

Types of Attacks

Attacks can be broadly classified into two main categories:

1. Passive Attacks

 These attacks involve monitoring or eavesdropping on system communications without

altering the data.
 Goal: Gather information without detection.

2. Active Attacks

 These attacks involve modifying data, disrupting services, or gaining unauthorized

access.
 Goal: Damage systems or steal/manipulate data.

Common Types of Attacks and Their Explanation

 Type of Attack Category Description
Phishing Social Tricking users into revealing personal or sensitive
Engineering information (e.g., through fake emails or websites).
Malware Active Malicious software (e.g., viruses, worms, Trojans)
designed to harm or exploit computers.
Denial of Service Active Overloading a system or network with traffic to make
(DoS) it unavailable to users.
Distributed DoS Active Same as DoS but launched from multiple sources
(DDoS) (often compromised computers or bots).
Man-in-the-Middle Active/Passive Intercepting and possibly altering communication
(MitM) between two parties without their knowledge.
SQL Injection Active Inserting malicious SQL code into input fields to
access or manipulate a database.
Brute Force Attack Active Trying many combinations of passwords or keys until
the correct one is found.
Password Cracking Active Attempting to guess or decrypt user passwords using
tools or algorithms.
Eavesdropping Passive Listening to private communications or data
transmission.
Spoofing Active Pretending to be another user or system (e.g., using a
fake IP or email).
Zero-Day Attack Active Exploiting previously unknown vulnerabilities before
they are patched.
Ransomware Active A type of malware that encrypts files and demands
payment for the decryption key.
Backdoor Attack Active Using hidden access methods to bypass normal
authentication.
Session Hijacking Active Taking over a user’s session after they have
authenticated.
Drive-by Download Active Unintended download of malicious software from a
website without user consent.

11.Vulnerabilities in computer network.

Vulnerabilities in Computer Networks

A vulnerability in a computer network is a weakness or flaw in hardware, software, procedures,

or human behavior that can be exploited by an attacker to gain unauthorized access, disrupt
services, or steal data.

Common Types of Network Vulnerabilities

1. Unpatched Software
  Description: Software with known bugs or security holes that haven't been fixed by
updates.
 Risk: Hackers exploit these vulnerabilities using malware or exploits.

2. Weak or Default Passwords

 Description: Use of easily guessable or factory-default passwords.

 Risk: Enables unauthorized access through brute-force or dictionary attacks.

3. Poor Network Configuration

 Description: Misconfigured firewalls, routers, or access controls.

 Risk: Opens the door to unauthorized access or data leakage.

4. Open Ports and Services

 Description: Unused or unnecessary open ports/services on a network.

 Risk: Attackers scan networks for open ports to exploit associated services.

5. Lack of Encryption

 Description: Data transmitted over the network without encryption.

 Risk: Exposes sensitive information to eavesdropping and man-in-the-middle attacks.

6. Insecure Network Protocols

 Description: Use of outdated or insecure protocols (e.g., FTP, Telnet).

 Risk: These protocols transmit data in plaintext, making them vulnerable to interception.

7. Phishing and Social Engineering

 Description: Tricking users into revealing login credentials or downloading malware.

 Risk: Exploits human vulnerabilities, often bypassing technical defenses.

8. Malware and Viruses

 Description: Malicious software that infects systems and spreads across the network.
 Risk: Can steal data, disrupt services, or provide remote access to attackers.

9. Insider Threats

 Description: Employees or users misusing their access privileges.

 Risk: Hard to detect and can cause significant damage from within the network.

10. Lack of Physical Security

  Description: Physical access to network devices or servers without restrictions.
 Risk: Attackers can plug into the network or steal equipment.

11. BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) Risks

 Description: Personal devices connected to the company network.

 Risk: These devices may not follow security policies and can introduce malware.

12. DNS Vulnerabilities

 Description: Attacks targeting the Domain Name System, like DNS spoofing.
 Risk: Can redirect users to malicious websites or disrupt access to legitimate services.

12.What is network Security? Need for Network Security.

What is Network Security?

Network Security refers to the policies, technologies, and practices used to protect the integrity,
confidentiality, and availability of computer networks and data. It involves securing both
hardware and software technologies, as well as protecting against threats such as unauthorized
access, misuse, malfunction, modification, destruction, or improper disclosure.

Network security covers both public and private networks, including internal corporate
networks, data centers, and the internet.

Goals of Network Security (CIA Triad):

1. Confidentiality – Ensuring that data is accessible only to authorized users.

2. Integrity – Ensuring that data is accurate and has not been altered.
3. Availability – Ensuring that network services and data are available when needed.

Need for Network Security

1. Protection Against Cyber Threats

 Prevents attacks like malware, ransomware, phishing, and denial-of-service (DoS).

 Helps detect and block intrusions.

2. Data Confidentiality and Privacy

 Protects sensitive data from being intercepted or accessed by unauthorized parties.

  Ensures compliance with privacy laws and regulations (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA).

3. Preventing Unauthorized Access

 Ensures that only authenticated users can access network resources.

 Uses tools like firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and access controls.

4. Maintaining Data Integrity

 Prevents data from being tampered with or altered during transmission or storage.
 Critical for financial records, medical data, and other sensitive information.

5. Ensuring Business Continuity

 Protects against disruptions that can lead to downtime or loss of service.

 Enables backup and disaster recovery solutions to keep services running.

6. Compliance with Legal and Regulatory Requirements

 Businesses are required to secure networks to meet industry standards.

 Failure to comply can result in heavy fines and legal action.

7. Safeguarding Intellectual Property

 Protects proprietary data, designs, and trade secrets from cyber espionage or theft.

8. Supports Remote Work and BYOD

 Secures access for employees working remotely or using personal devices.

 Prevents those devices from introducing threats into the network.

9. Reputation and Trust

 A secure network helps maintain customer trust and organizational reputation.

 Data breaches can cause long-term reputational damage.

13.Define WSN attack and Classification of Attacks on WSNs

Definition of WSN Attack

A WSN attack refers to any malicious activity targeting a Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) to
disrupt its normal operation, gain unauthorized access, steal data, or compromise network
integrity.

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) consist of spatially distributed sensor nodes that collect and
transmit data to a central location (base station). These networks are widely used in areas such as
environmental monitoring, military applications, health care, and smart homes. Due to their
wireless nature, limited resources, and remote deployment, WSNs are especially vulnerable to
various types of security attacks.

Classification of Attacks on WSNs

Attacks on Wireless Sensor Networks can be broadly classified into two main categories:

🔹 1. Based on the Attack Location

A. External Attacks

 Launched by adversaries outside the network.

 Aim to disrupt communication or steal information.
 Example: Jamming attacks, eavesdropping.

B. Internal Attacks

 Initiated by compromised nodes within the network.

 More dangerous due to access to network resources.
 Example: Node replication, data injection.

🔹 2. Based on the Attack Behavior

A. Passive Attacks

 The attacker silently monitors or listens to the network.

 No direct harm, but breaches confidentiality.

Examples:

 Eavesdropping: Intercepting communication between nodes.

 Traffic Analysis: Studying communication patterns to find important nodes.

B. Active Attacks

 The attacker actively disrupts the network, alters data, or compromises nodes.
Examples:

Attack Name Description

Sybil Attack A node pretends to have multiple identities, disrupting routing and
voting mechanisms.
Wormhole Attack An attacker records packets at one location and replays them at another,
confusing routing.
Sinkhole Attack A compromised node attracts all traffic by pretending to be the optimal
route, then drops or alters data.
Hello Flood Attack An attacker uses a high-powered transmission to convince distant nodes
it's their neighbor.
Selective A malicious node forwards only selected packets and drops the rest.
Forwarding
Jamming The attacker transmits radio signals to disrupt the communication
channel.
Node Replication A cloned malicious node is added with the same ID as a legitimate one.
Attack
Denial of Service The attacker floods the network or targets specific nodes to render
(DoS) services unavailable.
Message Tampering Altering the content of messages during transmission.

14.Explain the term Closed and open network in network security.

Closed and Open Networks in Network Security

In network security, closed and open networks refer to the level of access control, exposure,
and connectivity that a network allows. These terms define how users or devices connect to a
network and what security considerations apply.

🔒 Closed Network

Definition:

A closed network is a private or restricted network that is not accessible to the general public
or the internet. Access is controlled and limited to authorized users or systems.

Key Characteristics:

 Limited or no external connectivity (e.g., to the internet).

 Strong access control mechanisms (e.g., authentication, firewalls).
 Typically used in corporate, government, or military environments.
 Less vulnerable to external attacks due to limited exposure.
 Communication is usually within intranet boundaries.
Examples:

 Internal company network (intranet)

 Industrial control systems
 Military communication systems
 Secure lab networks

Advantages:

 High level of security and control

 Easier to monitor and manage
 Lower risk of external threats

Disadvantages:

 Limited scalability and connectivity

 Difficult remote access or data sharing
 Can be expensive to maintain

🌐 Open Network

Definition:

An open network is a network that is publicly accessible or allows connections without strict
authentication or access restrictions. Often connected to the internet or allows broad user access.

Key Characteristics:

 Allows external access (e.g., via the internet or public Wi-Fi).

 Minimal or no restrictions on who can connect.
 Common in public spaces, like cafes or airports.
 More vulnerable to attacks such as eavesdropping, spoofing, or malware injection.

Examples:

 Public Wi-Fi hotspots

 Guest networks in organizations
 Open-access university networks

Advantages:

 Easy to access and use

 Good for public sharing or general use
 Supports scalability and remote connectivity
Disadvantages:

 Higher risk of unauthorized access

 Susceptible to various cyber attacks
 Requires strong encryption and monitoring tools to stay secure

13. What is Ethical Hacking Issue?

What is an Ethical Hacking Issue?

An Ethical Hacking Issue refers to the challenges, concerns, and risks associated with the
practice of ethical hacking — also known as penetration testing or white-hat hacking.

Ethical hacking involves legally breaking into computers and networks to test and assess their
security. While the goal is to identify and fix vulnerabilities, several ethical, legal, and
operational issues can arise in the process.

Common Ethical Hacking Issues

1. Authorization and Scope

 Issue: Performing tests without clear permission or exceeding the authorized scope can
result in legal violations or damage.
 Concern: Ethical hackers must have written, formal authorization before beginning
any testing.

2. Privacy Concerns

 Issue: Hackers may access personal or sensitive data during testing.

 Concern: Even when authorized, accessing confidential information must be handled
with strict privacy and data protection policies.

3. Data Loss or System Damage

 Issue: Testing may accidentally crash systems, delete files, or corrupt data.
 Concern: Ethical hackers must ensure their methods are non-destructive and use
backups.

4. Misuse of Knowledge

 Issue: The techniques and tools learned during ethical hacking can be used for malicious
purposes.
 Concern: There is always a risk of turning into a black-hat hacker or sharing
knowledge with bad actors.
5. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

 Issue: Ethical hacking may violate data protection laws, especially if cross-border data
is involved.
 Concern: Hackers must understand and comply with relevant laws (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA,
IT Act).

6. Trust and Responsibility

 Issue: Organizations must trust ethical hackers with critical systems and sensitive data.
 Concern: A breach of this trust can have serious consequences, both technically and
reputationally.

7. Disclosure of Vulnerabilities

 Issue: After discovering a vulnerability, how and when it should be disclosed becomes a
concern.
 Concern: Immediate, responsible disclosure to the affected organization is essential, not
public exposure.

8. Skill and Qualification

 Issue: Not all ethical hackers have the required expertise.

 Concern: Inexperienced testers can cause more harm than good if they don’t follow best
practices.

15.Explain in Details Hacking Tools.

Hacking Tools: A Detailed Explanation

Hacking tools are software programs or utilities used by hackers—both ethical (white-hat) and
malicious (black-hat)—to find and exploit vulnerabilities in computer systems, networks, or
applications. These tools can automate or assist in tasks such as scanning, password cracking,
packet sniffing, or remote access.

🔐 Note: While hacking tools can be used maliciously, they are also essential for ethical
hacking, penetration testing, and cybersecurity defense.

✅ Types of Hacking Tools and Their Functions

1. Network Scanning Tools

Used to discover active devices, open ports, services, and vulnerabilities on a network.

 Examples:
o Nmap (Network Mapper): Scans IP addresses, detects open ports, OS types.
o Angry IP Scanner: Lightweight IP and port scanner.
o Advanced IP Scanner: Scans LAN and provides device details.

2. Vulnerability Scanners

Identify known security weaknesses in systems, software, or configurations.

 Examples:
o Nessus: One of the most popular vulnerability assessment tools.
o OpenVAS: Open-source scanner with a wide vulnerability database.
o Nikto: Scans web servers for outdated software or insecure scripts.

3. Password Cracking Tools

Used to recover or break passwords using techniques like brute-force, dictionary, or rainbow
table attacks.

 Examples:
o John the Ripper: Fast and flexible password cracker.
o Hydra: Network login cracker supporting multiple protocols (e.g., SSH, FTP).
o Hashcat: Advanced password recovery tool that uses GPU acceleration.

4. Packet Sniffers (Sniffing Tools)

Capture and analyze data packets traveling across a network.

 Examples:
o Wireshark: Most widely-used network protocol analyzer.
o Tcpdump: Command-line packet analyzer.
o Ettercap: Sniffing and MITM attacks on LAN.

5. Exploitation Tools

Used to exploit known vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access.

  Examples:
o Metasploit Framework: Comprehensive platform for developing and executing
exploits.
o BeEF (Browser Exploitation Framework): Focuses on exploiting
vulnerabilities in web browsers.
o SQLMap: Automates SQL injection attacks on databases.

6. Wireless Hacking Tools

Target wireless networks (Wi-Fi) to crack passwords or sniff traffic.

 Examples:
o Aircrack-ng: Cracks WEP and WPA-PSK Wi-Fi passwords.
o Kismet: Wireless network detector, sniffer, and intrusion detection.
o Reaver: Targets WPS-enabled networks to retrieve WPA/WPA2 passphrases.

7. Social Engineering Tools

Simulate or conduct attacks based on manipulating human behavior.

 Examples:
o SET (Social Engineering Toolkit): Automates social engineering attacks
(phishing, email spoofing).
o Maltego: Used for open-source intelligence (OSINT) and social mapping.

8. Rootkits and Trojans (Malicious Use Only)

Used to gain persistent access or hide other tools in a system (typically by black-hat hackers).

 Examples:
o Netcat: A legitimate tool that can be used for remote access and backdoors.
o Poison Ivy: A remote administration tool (RAT) often used maliciously.

9. Mobile Hacking Tools

Designed to test and exploit vulnerabilities in mobile devices and apps.

 Examples:
 o MobSF (Mobile Security Framework): Mobile app testing framework.
o Drozer: Android security assessment framework.

10. Web Application Hacking Tools

Target websites and web applications to discover and exploit vulnerabilities.

 Examples:
o Burp Suite: Intercepts and manipulates HTTP/HTTPS requests.
o OWASP ZAP: Open-source web application scanner.
o Wfuzz: Performs brute force attacks on web parameters.

16.What is network sniffing? Why network sniffing is important?

What is Network Sniffing?

Network sniffing is the process of monitoring and capturing data packets traveling through a
computer network. This is done using tools called packet sniffers or protocol analyzers, which
can intercept and analyze network traffic in real-time.

Sniffers can operate in:

 Promiscuous mode: Captures all packets on the network, regardless of destination.

 Non-promiscuous mode: Captures only packets addressed to the host device.

Why is Network Sniffing Important?

Network sniffing plays a critical role in both network administration and cybersecurity, with
both positive (ethical) and negative (malicious) uses.

✅ Importance of Network Sniffing in a Positive Context

1. Network Troubleshooting

 Helps diagnose connectivity issues, latency, or packet loss.

 Identifies problems with protocols, routing, or device communication.

2. Performance Monitoring
  Analyzes traffic patterns to understand network usage.
 Helps optimize network resources and balance loads.

3. Security Monitoring and Intrusion Detection

 Detects suspicious activities like unauthorized access, port scanning, or malware

communication.
 Used in Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) to identify threats.

4. Protocol Analysis

 Helps developers and engineers understand how applications and services communicate
over the network.
 Useful for debugging or testing new protocols.

5. Compliance and Auditing

 Captures logs of sensitive data transmissions to ensure compliance with regulations (e.g.,
HIPAA, GDPR).
 Helps audit data flow for security assessments.

❌ Importance of Network Sniffing in a Malicious Context

1. Eavesdropping

 Attackers can intercept private communications (e.g., passwords, emails).

 Especially dangerous on unencrypted networks like public Wi-Fi.

2. Credential Theft

 Captures usernames, passwords, session tokens transmitted in plaintext.

 Used in Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attacks.

3. Network Mapping

 Identifies active hosts, open ports, and services to plan further attacks

 .

17. Explain the term Bypass blocked and filtered websites .

Bypass Blocked and Filtered Websites:

Bypassing blocked or filtered websites refers to the process of accessing websites or online
content that has been restricted or filtered by an organization, network administrator,
government, or internet service provider (ISP). These restrictions are typically implemented for
security, legal, or organizational reasons.

People often try to bypass these blocks in order to access websites that may be restricted due to
censorship, content filtering, geographical restrictions, or workplace policies.

Common Reasons for Blocking or Filtering Websites:

1. Workplace Restrictions: Employers often block access to social media, entertainment

sites, or other non-work-related websites during working hours to improve productivity
and ensure security.
2. Parental Controls: Parents may use website filtering tools to block inappropriate or
harmful content for children.
3. Geographical Restrictions (Geo-blocking): Some websites restrict content based on the
user’s location (e.g., content only available in certain countries, such as Netflix shows).
4. Government Censorship: Certain countries or regions may block websites to control
information, prevent access to politically sensitive topics, or adhere to local laws and
regulations.
5. Security Reasons: Some websites are blocked to prevent access to malicious or harmful
content like malware, phishing sites, or spyware.

Methods to Bypass Blocked and Filtered Websites:

There are various tools and techniques used to bypass website filters or blocks, allowing users
to access restricted websites. These methods can be used in both ethical and malicious contexts,
depending on the intent.

1. VPN (Virtual Private Network)

 How it Works: A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a remote
server in a different location, making it appear as if you are accessing the internet from a
different location.
 Advantages:
o Hides the user's real IP address.
o Allows users to access geographically restricted content.
o Provides secure connections, especially on public Wi-Fi.
 Common Uses: Accessing regionally blocked websites (e.g., accessing content only
available in the US).

2. Proxy Servers
  How it Works: A proxy server acts as an intermediary between your device and the
website you want to visit. It masks your IP address, allowing you to access blocked
websites indirectly.
 Advantages:
o Fast and easy to use.
o Allows bypassing of basic web filters and firewalls.
 Disadvantages:
o Many websites can detect proxies.
o Free proxies can be insecure and may expose you to malicious activities.

3. Tor Network (The Onion Router)

 How it Works: Tor routes your traffic through a series of volunteer-operated servers
(nodes), masking your IP address and ensuring anonymous browsing.
 Advantages:
o Highly anonymous browsing.
o Helps bypass stringent censorship or filtering.
 Disadvantages:
o Slower speeds due to the routing through multiple nodes.
o Some websites may block access from known Tor exit nodes.

4. DNS (Domain Name System) Tunneling

 How it Works: DNS tunneling uses DNS queries and responses to send data in and out
of a network. It can be used to bypass network filters and blocks by using DNS to carry
web traffic.
 Advantages:
o Effective in situations where network-level blocking occurs.
o Can be hard to detect by standard filtering systems.
 Disadvantages:
o Complex setup.
o May be slow and inefficient.

5. Web-based Proxy Services

 How it Works: Some websites offer proxy services through your web browser. These
services allow you to access blocked content via their server, so it appears as if the
request is coming from the proxy server, not your own IP address.
 Advantages:
o Simple and easy to use.
o No need for software installation.
 Disadvantages:
o May have limitations on bandwidth or functionality.
o Many web-based proxies are detected and blocked by more advanced security
systems.
6. Using HTTPS instead of HTTP

 How it Works: Some websites may block or filter HTTP versions of web pages but
allow the HTTPS versions. Since HTTPS is encrypted, it may bypass some simple
network filters.
 Advantages:
o Simple and effective for some websites.
o Many websites now enforce HTTPS.
 Disadvantages:
o Not all websites have both HTTP and HTTPS versions.
o May not work for content filtering tools that block HTTPS traffic.

7. Changing DNS Servers

 How it Works: Many networks block access to certain websites by using DNS filters.
By switching to a different DNS server (like Google DNS or OpenDNS), you can bypass
these filters.
 Advantages:
o Easy to configure on most devices.
o Faster resolution and access to websites.
 Disadvantages:
o Some DNS servers may still have blocking mechanisms in place.
o May not bypass more advanced content filtering systems.