Adware is a form of malware that targets users with unwanted advertisements, often disrupting their browsing experience. It typically infiltrates systems through software bundling, malicious websites, or deceptive downloads. Once installed, it may track user activity, collect sensitive data, and display intrusive ads, including pop-ups or banners. Some advanced adware variants can bypass security measures and establish persistence on devices, making removal challenging. Additionally, adware can create vulnerabilities that other malware can exploit, posing a significant risk to user privacy and system security.

A botnet is a group of internet-connected devices that are controlled by a single individual or group, often without the knowledge or consent of the device owners. These devices can be used to launch a variety of malicious attacks, such as distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, spam campaigns, and data theft. Botnet malware is the software that is used to infect devices and turn them into part of a botnet.

Mirai is a self-propagating malware that scans the internet for vulnerable IoT devices and infects them to create a botnet. Mirai variants utilize lists of common default credentials to gain access to devices. Mirai's primary use is for launching distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, but it has also been used for cryptocurrency mining.