Difference Between Virus and Worm

The main difference between virus and worm is that virus is a program that uses executable files to spread from one system to another and requires human action to replicate. In contrast, a worm is an independent program that doesn’t require executable files to spread and can automatically replicate to different systems by using a computer network.

In this article, we will explore virus vs worm. But, before we go through the difference between virus and worm, let’s go through the list of topics listed under the TOC that we will cover in this blog.

Table of contents (TOC)

• Difference between virus and worm (Virus vs Worm)
• What is a virus?
• What is a worm?
• Key differences between virus and worm
• How to prevent your system from computer viruses and worms?

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Difference between virus and worm (Virus vs Worm) 

Even though computer viruses and worms have very similar functionality, the two have several differences. So, for a better understanding, let’s explore the difference between virus and worm in a tabular format:

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What is a virus?

Virus definition: A virus is a program that uses executable files to spread from one system to another and requires human action to replicate.

A computer virus is a software that can attach itself to a computer’s executable files. When a virus attaches itself to an executable file on a computer, it remains dormant until the contaminated file is executed. The virus will only infect the computer if the user runs the infected or contaminated program; otherwise, there will be no sign or symptom, and it will remain dormant. But remember that once the virus has infected your system, it can spread to other systems on the same network.

Here are some of the symptoms of a virus infection:

• Changes in your home page
• Decreasing computer performance
• Modifying personal data, text files, etc.
• A frequent pop-up of windows.
• Unwanted programs start as soon as the system boots up.

You can also explore- What is Adware & How do I Get rid of it?

What is a worm?

Worm definition: A worm is an independent (stand-alone) malicious program that doesn’t require executable files to spread and can automatically replicate to different systems using a computer network. 

Like viruses, worms do not need executable files to spread. Worms invade your computer through some software vulnerabilities, or they might come as an attachment to an email. Once the user opens an infected mail, the worm gets downloaded automatically. And once installed, the worm begins replicating itself in the form of system files and infects your entire computer. A worm can replicate itself and spread across a network via an internet connection, infecting any insufficiently protected computers and servers connected to the same network as the original infected device. Because each subsequent copy of a worm repeats the process of self-replication, execution, and propagation, worm infection spreads quickly across computer networks and the internet.

Here are some of the symptoms of a worm infection:

• Firewall warnings
• Programs opening and running automatically
• The appearance of unknown files or icons on the desktop
• Slow computer performance or even freezing sometimes
• Emails sent to contacts without your consent or knowledge

Key differences between virus and worm 

Some of the key differences between viruses and worms are:

• The virus requires hosts to spread, whereas worms do not.
• The virus requires human intervention to replicate, whereas worms do not.
• The spreading speed of a computer virus is relatively slow compared to a computer worm.
• Viruses spread to different systems through executable files, whereas worms use computer networks to spread themselves.
• The main objective of a computer virus is to modify the information. On the other hand, the main objective of a computer worm is to consume system resources, such as bandwidth, memory, etc.

How to prevent your system from computer viruses and worms? 

Here are some of the ways that can help you to prevent your system from computer viruses and worms:

• Back up your data regularly.
• Back up your data regularly.
• When torrenting, use a VPN.
• Install a good antivirus program.
• Avoid using third-party downloads.
• Turn on Google Safe Browsing service.
• Update software and passwords regularly.
• Install a hardware-based firewall and DNS.
• While browsing, avoid clicking on pop-up ads.
• Protect sensitive data by encrypting important files.
• When opening email attachments or links, use caution.

You can also refer to: What are the Different Types of Firewalls?

You can also refer to: What is an Intrusion Detection System (IDS)?

Conclusion

Now that you know the difference between virus and worm (virus vs worm), you will be easily able to differentiate between these two. Remember that a virus requires human intervention to replicate, whereas worms do not. And the main objective of a computer virus is to modify the information. On the other hand, the main objective of a computer worm is to consume system resources, such as bandwidth, memory, etc.

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