Malware, short for malicious software, refers to any software intentionally designed to cause harm to a computer, network, or user. It encompasses a broad range of malicious programs, including viruses, worms, trojan horses, ransomware, spyware, and adware. Viruses attach themselves to legitimate programs and replicate when executed, worms spread independently, trojans disguise themselves as benign software to deceive users, ransomware encrypts files demanding payment for decryption, spyware monitors user activities, and adware displays unwanted advertisements. These types of malware exploit vulnerabilities to compromise system integrity, steal sensitive information, or disrupt normal computer functions, posing significant threats to cybersecurity.