What distinguishes a computer worm from other types of malware?

A computer worm is distinguished from other types of malware primarily by its ability to self-replicate and spread independently through networks without any human intervention. Worms are designed to exploit vulnerabilities in operating systems or software, allowing them to make copies of themselves and propagate across multiple systems automatically. This autonomous nature distinguishes worms from other forms of malware, such as viruses, which typically require some action from a user to initiate their spread, such as opening an infected file or application.

While other types of malware, like Trojans or adware, may have specific purposes such as data theft or installing unwanted advertisements, a worm's primary characteristic is its self-replicating behavior. This ability can lead to rapid network congestion and widespread system infections, underscoring the importance of understanding the unique nature of worms in the context of cybersecurity.