Which malware provides unauthorized administrative access to a system?

The term that describes malware which provides unauthorized administrative access to a system is known as a backdoor. This type of malware is designed specifically to create a hidden method of bypassing normal authentication or securing remote access to a computer, often maintaining access even after vulnerabilities have been patched or system updates have occurred. Once a backdoor is installed, it allows an attacker to exploit the system remotely and assume control without the user's knowledge.

A rootkit, while closely related, functions primarily as a collection of software tools used to conceal the existence of certain processes or programs from normal methods of detection. It seeks to hide its presence on a device, and while it can enable unauthorized access, it's not specifically designed as a means of direct access like a backdoor. In contrast, worms are self-replicating malware that spread across networks, and Trojans disguise themselves as legitimate software to trick users into installing them. These do not inherently provide administrative access in the way that a backdoor does.

Therefore, the correct understanding highlights that backdoors intentionally provide unauthorized access, distinguishing them as a significant threat in cybersecurity.