Advanced Placement (AP) Computer Science

What is a virus in the context of computer security?

1. A type of malware that duplicates itself across networks

2. A tool used to protect against unauthorized access

3. A software that improves system performance

4. A firewall for preventing external attacks

The correct answer is: A type of malware that duplicates itself across networks

A virus in the context of computer security is indeed a type of malware that is designed to replicate itself and spread to other computers and networks. When a virus infects a host system, it can attach itself to legitimate programs or files, and when those programs are executed or files are opened, the virus activates and may infect other files or programs on the same system or potentially spread to other systems via networks, email attachments, or removable media. This self-replicating behavior distinguishes a virus from other types of software. Unlike security tools that aim to protect systems, a virus takes advantage of vulnerabilities in software to propagate. It's important to recognize that viruses can lead to detrimental effects, including data corruption, loss of system functionality, and unauthorized access to private information. Therefore, understanding the nature of a virus and its method of operation is crucial for protecting computer systems from such threats.