Name a common type of malware that can affect networks.

Ransomware is a specific type of malware that encrypts the data on a victim's system, rendering it inaccessible until a ransom is paid to the attacker for the decryption key. This type of malware can severely impact networks by shutting down vital data services, disrupting business operations, and leading to potential data loss. The consequences of a ransomware attack can include financial losses, reputational damage, and, in some cases, compliance issues, especially in sectors that handle sensitive information.

While spyware monitors and collects user data without their consent, and adware typically displays unwanted advertisements rather than encrypting data, ransomware specifically targets network functionality by locking out users from their own systems. Virus protection software, on the other hand, is designed to prevent malware infections and remove existing ones but is not a type of malware itself. Thus, ransomware stands out as a particularly damaging form of malware that directly affects network integrity and availability.