It is trivial to DDoS a machine and cause the famous "live-lock"
problem.  This is where interrupts come in so fast that you can't do
anything but service them, if that.

It doesn't occur at 100 Mbps or even gigabit traffic.  It happens when
you send lots and lots of minimal packets.  A DS3 can take down a 100
Mbps connected Pentium-3 866 Mhz.  I know this from experienced.

--Michael