Difference between revisions of "Computer worm"
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A '''computer worm''' is a program that is self-replicating. It typically makes use of a network to circulate its duplicate copies to other computers on the network. | A '''computer worm''' is a program that is self-replicating. It typically makes use of a network to circulate its duplicate copies to other computers on the network. | ||
| − | In contrast with a [[computer virus]], a worm need not hide in an existing program. | + | In contrast with a [[computer virus]], a worm need not hide in an existing program. Rather than requiring user action to infect or destroy files, a worm will connect and if possible, break in to other computers its host computer has network access to. Like the [[Invertebrate]] it is named after, it could be said to crawl about and reproduce with no external assistance, rarely being noticed. |
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| + | ==Infamous Worms== | ||
| + | * [[Conficker]] | ||
| + | * [[Stuxnet]] | ||
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[[category:software]] | [[category:software]] | ||
Revision as of 16:28, January 28, 2016
A computer worm is a program that is self-replicating. It typically makes use of a network to circulate its duplicate copies to other computers on the network.
In contrast with a computer virus, a worm need not hide in an existing program. Rather than requiring user action to infect or destroy files, a worm will connect and if possible, break in to other computers its host computer has network access to. Like the Invertebrate it is named after, it could be said to crawl about and reproduce with no external assistance, rarely being noticed.