What is a malware signature?

A malware signature refers to a specific pattern of data that identifies a known malware sample. This pattern can include unique strings of code, characteristics of the malware's behavior, or specific data structures that distinguish it from legitimate software. By utilizing these signatures, intrusion detection systems and antivirus programs can effectively detect and respond to known threats, thereby protecting systems and networks from harmful software.

The effectiveness of malware signatures lies in their ability to provide a precise method of identification for various types of malware. When a system scans files and processes for these signatures, it can flag potential threats before they execute, helping prevent infections or damage.

In contrast, the other options relate to different aspects of cybersecurity and data handling. For instance, an encryption method is designed to secure data rather than identify malicious entities, while forms of legitimate network traffic are unrelated to the detection of malware. Protocols for secure communications also do not pertain directly to the identification of malware signatures but rather focus on safeguarding data during transmission.