hardMultiple Choice
FC0-U71 Practice Question: Which type of malware replicates itself across a…
Which type of malware replicates itself across a network without user interaction?
⚠ Common exam trap
Many exam-takers confuse a worm with a virus, assuming both require user interaction, but the key distinction is that a worm self-replicates over a network autonomously, while a virus requires a host file and user action to spread.
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
✓
Worm
A worm is a standalone malware program that replicates itself across a network by exploiting vulnerabilities or using network protocols (e.g., SMB, HTTP) without requiring any user action, such as opening a file or executing a payload. Unlike a virus, which attaches to a host file and needs user interaction to spread, a worm self-propagates automatically, making it the correct answer for malware that spreads without user interaction.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
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Virus
Why it's wrong here
A virus requires a host file and user action, such as executing an infected program, to spread; it cannot self-replicate across a network unaided. It is tempting because viruses are the archetypal malware. A virus would be correct where propagation depends on user execution of infected files.
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Ransomware
Why it's wrong here
Ransomware encrypts data and demands payment; it does not self-replicate across a network without user interaction. It is tempting because it spreads via phishing and exploits. Ransomware is correct when the scenario describes data being encrypted and a ransom demanded, not autonomous replication.
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Worm
Why this is correct
A worm self-propagates across networks by exploiting vulnerabilities in network services, requiring no user interaction, unlike viruses that need a host file or user action to spread. This directly satisfies the stem's constraint of replication without user interaction, making it the defining characteristic that distinguishes worms from other malware types.
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Trojan
Why it's wrong here
A Trojan disguises itself as legitimate software and relies on the user running it; it has no self-replication mechanism. It is tempting because Trojans often download further payloads. A Trojan is correct when the scenario describes malware delivered through deceptive user-installed software.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This FC0-U71 practice question is part of Courseiva's free CompTIA 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 FC0-U71 exam.