- A
Patch
Why wrong: A patch is a software update, not malware.
- B
Virus
A virus attaches to files and spreads.
- C
Ransomware
Ransomware encrypts data for ransom.
- D
Worm
A worm self-replicates over networks.
- E
Firewall
Why wrong: A firewall is a security device, not malware.
Question 913 of 1,000
200-201 Security Concepts Practice Question
This 200-201 practice question tests your understanding of security concepts. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
Which THREE of the following are common types of malware?
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Virus
A virus is a type of malware that replicates by attaching itself to legitimate executable files or scripts, requiring user action (e.g., opening an infected attachment) to spread. It is one of the classic and most common forms of malicious software, making option B correct.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Patch
Why it's wrong here
A patch is a software update, not malware.
- ✓
Virus
Why this is correct
A virus attaches to files and spreads.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
- ✓
Ransomware
Why this is correct
Ransomware encrypts data for ransom.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
- ✓
Worm
Why this is correct
A worm self-replicates over networks.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
- ✗
Firewall
Why it's wrong here
A firewall is a security device, not malware.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
Cisco often tests the distinction between security tools (like patches and firewalls) and actual malware types, leading candidates to mistakenly classify protective measures as malicious software.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
Malware like viruses, worms, and ransomware often exploit system vulnerabilities or user behavior to execute. A worm self-replicates without a host file, using network protocols (e.g., SMB or HTTP) to spread autonomously, while ransomware encrypts files using algorithms like AES and demands payment for decryption. In real-world incidents, such as the WannaCry outbreak, a worm combined with ransomware caused widespread damage by propagating via EternalBlue and then encrypting systems.
KKey Concepts to Remember
- Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
- Find the constraint that changes the correct option.
- Eliminate answers that are true in general but not in this case.
TExam Day Tips
- Watch for words such as best, first, most likely and least administrative effort.
- Review why wrong options are wrong, not only why the correct option is correct.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A practitioner preparing for the 200-201 exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
What to study next
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
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FAQ
Questions learners often ask
What does this 200-201 question test?
Security Concepts — This question tests Security Concepts — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Virus — A virus is a type of malware that replicates by attaching itself to legitimate executable files or scripts, requiring user action (e.g., opening an infected attachment) to spread. It is one of the classic and most common forms of malicious software, making option B correct.
What should I do if I get this 200-201 question wrong?
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
About these practice questions
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Last reviewed: Jul 4, 2026
This 200-201 practice question is part of Courseiva's free Cisco certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the 200-201 exam.
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