Punnelling

Punnelling is a term used in various contexts, often referring to the act of focusing or concentrating something into a narrower channel or path. The specific meaning of punnelling depends heavily on the domain in which it is used.

In cybersecurity, punnelling refers to a technique where malicious actors attempt to bypass network security measures by encrypting or encapsulating network traffic within a seemingly legitimate protocol. This allows them to exfiltrate data or establish command and control channels undetected. For example, an attacker might tunnel DNS traffic over a standard HTTP connection, making it appear as normal web browsing to network monitoring tools. This method exploits the trust placed in certain protocols to hide malicious activities.

In physical engineering and construction, punnelling can describe the process of creating or reinforcing a narrow passage or conduit. This might involve excavating a tunnel, constructing a pipe, or directing the flow of a fluid through a confined space. The term emphasizes the controlled and directed movement of a substance or object through a defined route.

In a more abstract sense, punnelling can also refer to focusing resources or attention towards a specific goal or objective, much like channeling energy into a narrow stream. This usage implies a deliberate effort to streamline and direct efforts for maximum impact.