Security is one of the most critical aspects of online game server development.
Unlike traditional web apps, games face constant, active, hostile attacks from:

• Cheaters
• Botters
• Script injectors
• Packet editors
• Memory hackers
• Speed hackers
• DDoS attackers
• Economy exploiters
• Match manipulators
• Account thieves

Every online game—no matter how small—will be attacked.

This chapter introduces the foundations of game server security and modern anti-cheat strategies used across the industry.

1. Why Security Matters in Online Games

Online games must protect: