Types of Rootkits
Bootloader rootkit
When you switch on a computer, the bootloader loads the operating system. A bootloader rootkit infiltrates this mechanism, infecting your machine with malware before the operating system is ready for use. Bootloader rootkits are less of a threat currently, because of security mechanisms such as Secure Boot.
Firmware rootkit
Firmware is a sort of software that gives basic control over the hardware it is designed for. Firmware can be found on a wide range of equipment, including mobile phones and washing machines. A firmware rootkit is difficult to detect because it hides in firmware, where most cybersecurity tools do not look for malware.
Kernel Rootkits
The kernel of your operating system functions similarly to the nervous system. It’s a key layer that helps with essential tasks. A kernel rootkit can be disastrous since it targets a critical component of your computer and grants a threat actor significant control over the system.
Memory rootkit
Memory rootkits live in your computer’s RAM and can slow down your system while doing malicious functions. You can usually erase a memory rootkit by restarting your computer, as this clears all processes from your machine’s memory.
Application rootkit
An application rootkit may replace your ordinary files with rootkit code, granting the rootkit creator access to your machine each time you execute the infected files. However, this sort of malware is easier to detect because files containing rootkits can act abnormally. In addition, your security tools have a better chance of detecting them.
What is a Rootkit?
The term rootkit is derived from the words “root” and “kit.” The phrases “root,” “admin,” “superuser,” and “system admin” all refer to a user account with power of administration in an operating system. Meanwhile, “kit” refers to a collection of software tools. So, a rootkit is a collection of tools that grants someone the most powerful capabilities in a system. Let’s briefly discuss this.