Worm

Updated 31 Jul 2026

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def
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  malware that self-replicates and spreads across a network without needing a host file or direct user action, unlike a Virus — it doesn't need you to do anything
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mitigation
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  firewalls and IDS/IPS can prevent many worm infections in the first place, but offer little help once a worm has already gotten inside
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related
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  Malware
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  Virus
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cards
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  Distinguish a worm from a virus
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    A worm self-replicates and spreads across a network with no host file or user action needed; a virus needs a host program and user execution to spread

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