What does 'malware' encompass?

Malware is a broad term that encompasses all forms of malicious software designed to harm, exploit, or otherwise compromise computer systems and data. This includes various types such as viruses, worms, trojan horses, ransomware, spyware, adware, and more. The term "malware" itself is a contraction of "malicious software," capturing the essence of any software that is intended to cause damage or unauthorized actions on a computing device or network.

Understanding malware in its entirety is crucial for effective cybersecurity measures and responses. It allows IT professionals to recognize the diversity of threats that exist beyond the commonly known categories like viruses and worms, which are just a small subset of the risks that malware represents. This broader perspective enables better protection strategies, detection techniques, and remediation processes across various IT environments.