A computer code that spreads without the user interaction and can cause network performance problem is
Answer Details
A computer code that spreads without the user interaction and can cause network performance problem is a computer worm.
To understand this, let's think of a worm as a digital parasite. Similar to how a real-life worm can multiply quickly and spread in various directions, a computer worm can replicate itself and spread across computer networks without needing any action from the user.
Unlike viruses, which require a host file to attach themselves to and typically need user interaction to spread, worms can independently find vulnerabilities in computer systems and exploit them. This means that a worm can easily make copies of itself and infect multiple computers within a network without the user even knowing.
The ability of worms to rapidly spread can cause significant network performance problems. Imagine if a single worm infects one computer, then spreads to another, which spreads to two more, and so on. This exponential growth in infections can overload network resources, leading to sluggish internet speeds, system crashes, and even network failures.
Therefore, it is important to have strong security measures in place, such as firewalls and antivirus software, to protect against and prevent the spread of computer worms. Regularly updating software and operating systems can also help patch vulnerabilities that worms may exploit.
In conclusion, a computer worm is a type of malicious code that spreads autonomously across computer networks, causing network performance problems by rapidly infecting multiple computers.