23 August 2022

Rootkit Vs Virus | Difference | Comparison

A rootkit is a collection of malicious software that gives network administrators access. A malicious executable file that can either be harmless or modify or remove data is known as a virus. So here this article gives the difference between Rootkit Vs Virus to better understand this topic.

What is Virus?

Virus stands for, vital information resources under siege. A virus is an executable file that contains dangerous code, is connected to another executable file, and has the potential to alter or delete data. when a computer program infected with a virus runs. It involves some movement. For example, remove a file from the computer system. Viruses cannot be controlled remotely.

What is Rootkit?

A rootkit is a group of programs, a form of malware. That is designed to infect a target PC and enable an attacker to set up a number of tools that give him ongoing access to the system. The malware generally disguised itself as ordinary files that are hidden in plain sight making them invisible to your antivirus program. It makes a computer or computer network accessible at the administrator level. The goal is to steal personal information from your computer, frequently in order to take over a system. It requires specialist instruments to remove and is challenging to detect. 

Rootkit Vs Virus | Difference between rootkit and Virus:

  • A rootkit is a set of malicious programs that enable administrator-level access to a computer network. A virus is a malicious executable code attached to another executable file that can be harmless or can modify or delete data.
  • The main objective of rootkit is to steal identity information, often to gain control of a system. The primary goal of viruses is to alter information.
  • A rootkit is one type of malware. The virus is one of the types of malware.
  • A rootkit is more harmful. The virus is less harmful as compared to the rootkit.
  • Rootkit gives unauthorized access and control of the system to the attacker. Viruses can control data and resources cause errors, destroy systems and slow down performance.
  • TDSS, Zero access, allure and necurs, and some of the common rootkit. Resident and nonresident viruses are two types of viruses. 
  • A rootkit's detection and removal are difficult processes that frequently call for the usage of specialized tools. Virus prevention is provided by antivirus software.
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