What is a 'honey pot' in the context of network security?

A 'honey pot' in the context of network security is a computer system that is deliberately set up to attract hackers and intruders. Its primary purpose is to lure potential attackers and gather information about their methods, tools, and motives. By creating a controlled environment that appears vulnerable, security professionals can observe and analyze attacks without risking the security of real, operational systems.

The data collected from a honey pot can be crucial for understanding threat patterns and improving overall cybersecurity measures. It acts as an early warning system and helps organizations develop more effective defenses against actual attacks. Unlike secure servers, antivirus tools, or network monitoring systems, which have different functions centered around protection and detection, a honey pot specifically engages with threats in a way that reveals how to better protect against them.