Digital ants to protect computers against viruses
In the never-ending battle to protect computer networks from intruders, security experts are deploying a new defence, modelled on one of nature's hardiest creatures -- the ant.
Unlike traditional security devices, which are static, these "digital ants" wander through computer networks looking for threats, such as "computer worms" -- self-replicating programmes designed to steal information or facilitate unauthorised use of machines.
When a digital ant detects a threat, it doesn't take long for an army of ants to converge at that location, drawing the attention of human operators who step in to investigate.
The concept, called "swarm intelligence", promises to transform cyber security because it adapts readily to changing threats.
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Unlike traditional security devices, which are static, these "digital ants" wander through computer networks looking for threats, such as "computer worms" -- self-replicating programmes designed to steal information or facilitate unauthorised use of machines.
When a digital ant detects a threat, it doesn't take long for an army of ants to converge at that location, drawing the attention of human operators who step in to investigate.
The concept, called "swarm intelligence", promises to transform cyber security because it adapts readily to changing threats.