What is a bot? Easily explained

Bit, byte, bot - the computer world is full of such terms. In this article we explain what a "bot" is and what it can be used for

What is a bot?

If you know that the term "bot" is derived from the English word "robot", it is not difficult to understand.

• A "bot" is simply a computer program that automates certain tasks and performs them independently, usually also repeating them.
• When bots communicate with each other, we speak of a "botnet". However, this is usually malware. In the botnet, the bots give each other commands or receive them from just one source. A typical example of this is spam.

What bots are there?

There are different forms of bots, depending on the task. And like in the real world, there are "good" and "bad".

• In computer games, bots serve as a target aid or as a replacement for human players.
• Bots are also used in chats or forums. You are responsible for cleaning up and checking the content.
• The best known are the search engine bots. In this context, they are referred to as "web crawlers".
• Automated processes are unfortunately also misused. This includes malicious malware such as Trojans or malware.

In the next practical tip you will find out exactly what the term "TOG Tracker" is and what you should know about it.