What does the term malware refer to?

The term "malware" specifically refers to malicious software designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to computer systems. This includes various types of harmful software such as viruses, worms, ransomware, and spyware. The essence of malware lies in its intention to infect or harm a host system, targeting users' data, privacy, or the functionality of devices.

Understanding malware is crucial in cybersecurity, as it poses significant threats to both individuals and organizations. By recognizing malware as harmful software, one can appreciate the importance of protective measures, such as antivirus programs and secure configurations, to defend against these attacks. The other options do not describe malware but rather refer to secure communication protocols, encryption methods, or network analysis tools, which serve different purposes in the realm of technology and security.