Which type of malware is known for its ability to replicate and spread on its own?

The type of malware known for its ability to replicate and spread on its own is a computer worm. Worms are designed with the specific purpose of self-replication, and they can propagate through networks independently, without needing a host program or user intervention. They often exploit vulnerabilities in software or operating systems to move across different computers, making them particularly dangerous in terms of spreading quickly and widely.

In contrast, a virus needs a host file to attach itself to and relies on user actions to spread, while a Trojan disguises itself as legitimate software to deceive users, and it does not replicate. Spyware is a type of malware aimed at secretly gathering user information without consent, but it also does not have self-replicating abilities. Therefore, the defining characteristic of a worm is its autonomous replication and spreading capability, clearly distinguishing it from the other options.