Why is using Netflow records beneficial for identifying botnet activity?

Using Netflow records is beneficial for identifying botnet activity primarily because they capture all network traffic, making it possible to analyze patterns and behaviors associated with botnets. Netflow records summarize network traffic flows and provide insights into the volume, direction, and prolonged connection times of traffic to and from various endpoints.

This comprehensive capture allows security teams to establish a baseline for normal activity and detect anomalies that may indicate botnet behavior, such as unusual spikes in traffic, connections to known botnet command and control servers, or consistent outbound connections that suggest a compromised device. By examining these flow records, organizations can identify trends and patterns that could signify the presence of malicious activity stemming from botnets, thereby enabling them to respond effectively to potential threats.

In contrast, other options such as flagging suspicious connections automatically may not provide the comprehensive visibility Netflow offers, nor do they always ensure that less obvious botnet behavior is captured. Real-time alerts and detailed application analysis are also essential tools, but the core advantage of Netflow in this context lies in its ability to capture and analyze traffic patterns across the network.