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Computer worm

As explained in Acing the CCNA Exam: Volume 2 Advanced Networking and Security

A computer worm is self-replicating malware that spreads across systems or networks without requiring attachment to a host file or human intervention.

A computer worm is malware that replicates and spreads without human intervention, commonly moving across networks by exploiting software vulnerabilities. section 11.2.1

Distinguish worms from related malware types:

  • A virus attaches to a legitimate program or file and executes when that host is executed. section 11.2.1
  • A Trojan horse disguises itself as legitimate software, while a worm spreads autonomously. section 11.2.1
  • Worms illustrate why software vulnerabilities and network exposure are important security concerns. section 11.2.1

How Acing the CCNA Exam: Volume 2 Advanced Networking and Security covers it

How deep it goes
Defines propagation and contrasts worms with viruses and Trojan horses, but does not detail worm implementation or defenses.
Examples
Uses network propagation through software vulnerabilities as the concrete worm example and contrasts file-infecting viruses with disguised Trojan horses.
What it assumes
Assumes basic malware terminology while defining worms alongside viruses, Trojan horses, backdoors, and ransomware.
What you can do after
Evaluate whether malware spreads autonomously or depends on a host file or user action.
How it connects
Connects worms to malware, viruses, Trojan horses, ransomware, and software vulnerabilities.
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Related concepts

This explainer was generated by Manning's knowledge graph from the text of Acing the CCNA Exam: Volume 2 Advanced Networking and Security. The section links point to the parts of the book it draws on.