Botnets are referred to as a network of computers that have been infected by malware which controls their various functions such as the sending of spam and viruses to other computers. More often than not, the users and the owners of the computers are never aware that such control has been established.

Botnets rapidly grow in size and number and this leads to a severe effect on the functioning of the computers. Despite the fact that the user or the computer may not be aware of the presence of Botnets, it is created by individuals out of ill will as there are no set beneficial uses of Botnets.

Research on the effect of Botnets on computers has established that they currently make up the biggest threat to the internet community. They can not only send email attacks but also steal data from various users who may have valuable documents and information in the computer.