Differentiate between worm and virus

Worms and viruses are both malicious software (malware) that can cause harm to a computer or network, but they have distinct characteristics and functions.

Worm

A worm is a type of self-replicating malware that can spread on its own, without the need for user intervention. Worms can spread through network vulnerabilities, email attachments, or instant messaging, and they can cause network slowdowns, data loss, or other problems.

Virus

A virus, on the other hand, is a type of malware that attaches itself to a legitimate file or program and executes when the file or program is opened. Unlike worms, viruses cannot spread on their own and must rely on the user to spread the virus by opening an infected file or program. Viruses can cause a wide range of harm, from slowing down a computer to stealing sensitive information.

Differentiate between worm and virus

The main difference between worms and viruses is that worms can spread on their own, while viruses need user intervention to spread. Both worms and viruses can cause harm to a computer or network, but the specific type of harm can vary depending on the specific worm or virus.

TypeDefinitionSpreadConsequence
WormSelf-replicating malware that can spread on its own, without the need for user intervention.Through network vulnerabilities, email attachments, or instant messaging.Network slowdowns, data loss, or other problems.
VirusMalware that attaches itself to a legitimate file or program and executes when the file or program is opened.Must rely on the user to spread by opening an infected file or program.Can cause a wide range of harm, from slowing down a computer to stealing sensitive information.

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