A botnet is a number of Internet-connected devices, each of which is running one or more bots. ... The word "botnet" is a portmanteau of the words "robot" and "network". The term is usually used with a negative or malicious connotation.

What is the difference between bot and botnet?

A bot is a computer that has been compromised through a malware infection and can be controlled remotely by a cybercriminal. The cybercriminal can then use the bot (also known as a zombie computer) to launch more attacks, or to bring it into a collection of controlled computers, known as a botnet.

Is using botnet illegal?

Are Botnets Illegal? As botnets are just themselves networks of computers, there isn't anything illegal about creating a botnet of computers you own or have permission to control. ... However, it is considered a criminal offence to install malware on a computer belonging to others without their permission.