A COMPUTER CODE THAT SPREADS WITHOUT THE USER INTERACTION AND CAN CAUSE NETWORK PERFORMANCE PROBLEM IS

• A. a trojan
• B. a computer worm ✓
• C. a spyware
• D. a computer virus

The answer to the question is: B. a computer worm

A computer worm is a type of malicious software (malware) that self-replicates and spreads across computer networks without requiring any user interaction.

Unlike viruses, which require a host program to spread, worms can operate independently and can propagate themselves across networks. Computer worms can cause significant damage by consuming bandwidth, degrading system performance, and compromising the security of affected systems.

Computer worms are designed to exploit vulnerabilities in operating systems and network protocols. Once a worm gains access to a system, it can install backdoors, steal sensitive information, or launch denial-of-service attacks. Worms often spread through email attachments, malicious websites, or network shares.

Some well-known examples of computer worms include the Morris Worm, Conficker, Code Red, Nimda, and Slammer worms.

The Code Red worm, which targeted Microsoft’s IIS web server in 2001, and the Slammer worm, which infected Microsoft SQL Server systems in 2003. These worms caused widespread disruptions to internet services and demonstrated the potential threat that computer worms pose to modern networks.

To help protect against worms and other malware, users and organizations should follow good cybersecurity practices, such as installing antivirus software, keeping systems up to date with the latest security patches, using strong and unique passwords, and being cautious when opening email attachments or clicking on links in unsolicited emails.