Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify a key characteristic of a computer "worm," distinguishing it from other types of malware like viruses.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- A computer virus is a type of malicious code that, when executed, replicates by inserting copies of itself into other computer programs or data files. A virus requires a "host" program to attach to and needs human action (like running the infected program) to spread.
- A computer worm, on the other hand, is a standalone malware computer program that replicates itself in order to spread to other computers. Unlike a virus, it does not need to attach itself to an existing program. Worms often use a computer network to spread themselves, relying on security vulnerabilities on the target computer to access it. They are self-replicating and can spread without any human intervention.
Therefore, a worm is a standalone piece of software and does not need a host program to attach to.
Step 3: Final Answer:
A worm attack do not need the host to attach.