What characterizes a computer worm?

What characterizes a computer worm?

• A. It needs to attach to programs to spread
• B. It is self-replicating and spreads through networks
• C. It is harmless and improves performance
• D. It can only infect computers manually

Answer: (B)

A computer worm is characterized by its ability to self-replicate and spread through networks without needing to attach itself to a host program. This means that once a worm finds a vulnerability in a network or computer system, it can copy itself and send additional copies to other systems, often exploiting security flaws to propagate itself. This self-replication is what differentiates worms from other types of malware, such as viruses, which require a host program to spread. Understanding this characteristic is crucial, especially in cybersecurity, where recognizing the behavior of worms can help in implementing defenses against them.

A computer worm is characterized by its ability to self-replicate and spread through networks without needing to attach itself to a host program. This means that once a worm finds a vulnerability in a network or computer system, it can copy itself and send additional copies to other systems, often exploiting security flaws to propagate itself. This self-replication is what differentiates worms from other types of malware, such as viruses, which require a host program to spread. Understanding this characteristic is crucial, especially in cybersecurity, where recognizing the behavior of worms can help in implementing defenses against them.