Which of the following is a small piece of software that uses computer networks and security holes to replicate itself?

The correct answer is Worm.

Key Points

•  Worm 
  • A worm is a small piece of software that uses computer networks and security holes to replicate itself.
  • A copy of the worm scans the network for another machine that has a specific security hole.
  • Worm Uses computer networks and security holes to replicate itself.
  • Many worms are designed only to spread and do not attempt to change the systems they pass through.
  • The first-ever computer worm was devised to be anti-virus software.

Additional Information

•  Trojan horse
  • A Trojan horse is a type of malicious code or software that looks legitimate but takes control of your computer.
  • A Trojan is designed to damage, disrupt, steal, or in general, inflict some other harmful action on your data or network.
  • A Trojan acts as a bona fide application or file to trick you.
• Application
  • An application program is a computer program designed to carry out a specific task other than one relating to the operation of the computer itself, typically to be used by end-users.
  • Applications may be bundled with the computer and its system software or published separately and may be coded as proprietary, open-source, or projects.
• Operating System
  • An operating system is a software program required to manage and operate a computing device like smartphones, tablets, computers, supercomputers, web servers, cars, network towers, etc.
  • It is the operating system that eliminates the need to know coding language to interact with computing devices.