Computer Fundamentals and System Concepts

CPU stands for Central Processing Unit. It is the primary component of a computer that acts as its brain, executing instructions of computer programs.

The primary purpose of the Central Processing Unit (CPU) is to process data by performing calculations, making logical decisions, and executing instructions. While it does perform calculations, processing data is a more comprehensive description of its overall function.

The CPU is commonly referred to as the brain of the computer because it controls all functions and processes instructions, much like the human brain controls the body. Other body parts like eyes or feet represent input/output devices or mechanical parts rather than control centers.

Antivirus and malware detection programs scan files looking for specific patterns or signatures in the programming code that match known malware. This signature-based detection helps identify threats that have already been documented by security researchers.

A computer virus is a malicious software program designed to alter the way a computer operates and spread from one computer to another. It is written with malicious intent to damage files, steal data, or disrupt system operations.

A zombie is a computer that has been compromised by malware, allowing an attacker to control it remotely, often as part of a larger network.

Metamorphic malware rewrites its own code entirely each time it replicates, making it significantly harder to detect than polymorphic malware, which only changes its decryption routine.

A logic bomb is malicious code that remains dormant until specific conditions are met, such as a date, time, or event. Unlike viruses or worms that replicate and spread, logic bombs wait for their trigger condition before executing their payload.

Malware is software that infiltrates systems without consent to cause harm or steal data. This umbrella term includes viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, and other harmful software. Network and program viruses are specific types, while malware is the broader category.

Hacking refers to the practice of manipulating computer systems to gain unauthorized access to data or networks. While hacking is a type of cybercrime, the specific action of gaining unauthorized access is most directly defined as hacking.

Malware is a broad term that stands for malicious software and encompasses many different types of threats. Worms, viruses, and rootkits are all specific categories of malware designed to infect, damage, or gain unauthorized access to systems. Therefore, all of the listed options are involved in malware.

The term malware is a portmanteau, which is a blend of the words 'malicious' and 'software'. It refers to any software specifically designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to a computer system. The other options are incorrect word combinations.

Adware is a type of malware that automatically renders advertisements on a computer screen, often in the form of pop-ups, to generate revenue for its creator. While spyware tracks user behavior and worms spread across networks, adware specifically focuses on displaying unwanted ads. Viruses infect files but do not primarily focus on ad delivery.