Which statement best defines a worm?

Which statement best defines a worm?

• A. A software tool that protects systems.
• B. A computer program that can run independently, propagate a complete working version of itself onto other hosts on a network, and may consume computer resources destructively.
• C. A method of encrypting files for ransom.
• D. A protocol for domain name resolution.

Answer: (B)

Understanding what defines a worm in cybersecurity is the key idea. A worm is a self-contained computer program that can run independently and automatically spread to other machines on a network by copying itself to new hosts. This propagation happens without needing user action, often exploiting vulnerabilities or services to move from one device to another. Because it can run on its own and multiply across networks, a worm can consume a lot of computing resources and cause disruption or damage. That’s why the statement describing a computer program that can operate by itself, replicate itself across hosts on a network, and potentially use up resources destructively is the best fit. It contrasts with other options that describe protective tools, ransomware that encrypts files for ransom, or a network protocol for domain name resolution, none of which capture the self-spreading, autonomous nature of a worm.

Understanding what defines a worm in cybersecurity is the key idea. A worm is a self-contained computer program that can run independently and automatically spread to other machines on a network by copying itself to new hosts. This propagation happens without needing user action, often exploiting vulnerabilities or services to move from one device to another. Because it can run on its own and multiply across networks, a worm can consume a lot of computing resources and cause disruption or damage.

That’s why the statement describing a computer program that can operate by itself, replicate itself across hosts on a network, and potentially use up resources destructively is the best fit. It contrasts with other options that describe protective tools, ransomware that encrypts files for ransom, or a network protocol for domain name resolution, none of which capture the self-spreading, autonomous nature of a worm.