Honeyd

Honeyd is an open source computer program created by Niels Provos that allows a user to set up and run multiple virtual hosts on a computer network. These virtual hosts can be configured to mimic several different types of servers, allowing the user to simulate an infinite number of computer network configurations. Honeyd is primarily used in the field of computer security.

== Primary Applications == === Distraction === Honeyd is used primarily for two purposes. Using the software's ability to mimic many different network hosts at once (up to 65536 hosts at once), Honeyd can act as a distraction to potential hackers. If a network only has 3 real servers, but one server is running Honeyd, the network will appear running hundreds of servers to a hacker. The hacker will then have to do more research (possibly through social engineering) in order to determine which servers are real, or the hacker may get caught in a honeypot. Either way, the hacker will be slowed down or possibly caught.