What is a primary goal of a virus in computer systems?

A primary goal of a virus in computer systems is to replicate itself and spread to other systems. This self-replicating behavior is fundamental to the definition of a computer virus; it often utilizes various methods to attach itself to legitimate software or files in order to propagate. By spreading, a virus can infect a greater number of systems, which allows it to maximize its impact, whether that be to disrupt operations, steal information, or facilitate additional malicious activities.

The ability to replicate and spread is often what distinguishes a virus from other forms of malware. While aspects such as encryption of data can be a part of a virus's behavior, the overarching objective is the continuous replication, which ensures its presence and the potential to cause more harm over time.