What does the term 'malware' refer to?

The term 'malware' refers specifically to software that is designed to harm, exploit, or gain unauthorized access to computers, networks, or devices. This category includes various malicious software types, such as viruses, worms, Trojans, ransomware, and spyware. The primary characteristic of malware is its intent to disrupt operations, gather sensitive information, or perform other harmful actions without the user's consent.

In the context of computer security, understanding malware is crucial for implementing effective protection measures and recognizing potential threats to an organization’s information systems. Therefore, the focus on harmful actions makes the correct answer stand out starkly from options that suggest beneficial software functionalities, such as improving performance, backing up data, or developing user interfaces.