What is a botnet?

A botnet refers to a network of compromised devices that are controlled collectively to perform malicious activities, often without the knowledge of the device owners. The term "bot" derives from the word "robot," indicating that these devices can be remotely managed and programmed by malicious actors known as bot-herders. These individuals orchestrate commands from a command and control (C2) server to carry out various malicious tasks, such as launching Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, stealing information, or distributing spam and other types of malware.

In this context, the correct choice emphasizes the role of bot-herders in managing these networks. The botnet is not merely a collection of infected devices but is driven by the organization and control exercised by the malicious actor, allowing for large-scale cyber attacks and other illegal activities. This understanding is crucial in recognizing the scale and impact of such threats in cybersecurity.