What type of software is designed to damage your computer or network?

The correct answer is malware, which refers to a variety of malicious software designed specifically to harm, exploit, or otherwise compromise computers and networks. Malware can take many forms, including viruses, worms, trojan horses, ransomware, and spyware. Each type of malware has its own distinct method of causing damage, such as corrupting files, stealing sensitive information, or granting unauthorized access to system resources.

In contrast, antivirus software is designed to detect, prevent, and remove malware, thereby protecting computers and networks from damage. Utility software helps manage, maintain, and control computer resources but does not inherently cause harm. An operating system serves as the foundational software that manages computer hardware and software resources, facilitating the execution of various applications but is not created to damage the system. Understanding these definitions highlights the distinct purpose of malware within the broader context of computer software.