Ban

Ban, or “banning”, is a method used in computer programming, cybersecurity, and networking to deny access from one or multiple users, computers, packages, or networks. The term originates in the gaming world, where temporary or permanent dissolution of privileges or account bans are common.

In computer programming and networking, banning is typically brought into play as a way to isolate and protect a computer system or network from malicious attacks by an unwanted user. Common protective measures include blacklisting an IP address, blocking a URL, or completely banning a user. Bans are typically a blend of preventative measures and reactive responses that are intended to make unauthorized access and malicious activity more difficult. Network administrators sometimes use bans to temporarily block access to certain sites, such as those that promote violence or other restricted topics.

In cybersecurity, banning is commonly employed as a type of counter-cyber attack. When organizations or individuals suspect malicious activity, they may take the preemptive step of temporarily or permanently banning someone from accessing the network. Such measures can be enforced at the router and firewall level, or remotely on the server itself. A “soft ban” can be used to temporarily block a user or computer, while a “hard ban” can completely revoke access for an indefinite period of time.

Banning is also utilized in computer games to remove players who are suspected of cheating or exploiting the game in some form. This type of ban is often more permanent, although it may be overturned in some instances. Developers will typically use algorithms and database checks to scan for suspicious activity and behaviors, or players may be flagged for reported violations and subjected to manual review.

When it is applied too liberally or without fair warning, banning can result in conflicts between users and corporate entities. As such, the banning process must be carefully executed in order to ensure that it is truly in the best interest of the security and protection of the system at hand.