Which statement best describes a botnet?

A botnet refers to a group of automated systems, often compromised devices such as computers or IoT devices, that are controlled by a single entity, usually a malicious actor. These systems are programmed to perform malicious tasks such as launching distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, sending spam, stealing data, or other harmful activities without the knowledge or consent of the device owners. This allows the botnet operator to harness the collective power of these compromised systems to execute large-scale attacks or illicit activities efficiently and anonymously.

Understanding the nature of a botnet is crucial in the field of software development security, as it informs how software may be exploited or attacked and highlights the importance of implementing robust security measures to protect systems from being compromised. For instance, recognizing the threat of botnets can lead developers to incorporate security best practices and build resilient software that can withstand such attacks.