What is a Computer Worm?

Computer Worm refers to a self-replicating malware which severely disrupts the functions of various software and hardware programs. It shares similarities with the computer virus as both can replicate themselves and further spread to various networks. However, unlike viruses which stick to particular files before diffusing inside the computer, worms are standalone software or separate entities. Worms don’t need host files or programs. Also, they do not make any changes to the host files but stay in the active memory and thus duplicate themselves. Worms instead affect various parts of the operating system and become evident only when their uncontrolled replication consumes system resources and slowing other tasks in the process.

Upon gaining entry into the system, they travel unhindered within the file transport or even information-transport features in the system.