Difference between Rootkit and Virus

1. Rootkit : Rootkit is a set of application, a type of malware that is designed to infect a target PC and allow an attacker to install a set of tools that grant him persistent remote access to the computer. The malware typically pretended itself as normal files that “hide in plain sight” so your antivirus software overlooks them. It enables administrator-level access to a computer or computer network. The motive is to steal the identity information from your computer, often to gain control of a system. It is difficult to detect and remove, requires the specialized tools to remove. 2. Virus : A virus is a malicious executable code attached to another executable file which can be harmless or can modify or delete data. When the computer program runs attached with virus it perform some action such as deleting a file from the computer system. Virus can’t be controlled by remote.
Difference between Rootkit and Virus :

S.No.	ROOTKIT	VIRUS
1.	Rootkit is set of malicious program that enables administrator-level access to a computer network.	A Virus is a malicious executable code attached to another executable file which can be harmless or can modify or delete data.
2.	The main objective of rootkit is to steal the identity information, often to gain control of a system.	The main objective of virus is to modify the information.
3.	Detecting and removing a rootkit is a complex process and typically requires the use of specialized tools.	Antivirus software are used for protection against viruses.
4.	Rootkit is one of the type of malware.	Virus is one of the type of malware.
5.	It give unauthorized access and control of the system to the attacker.	It can control data and resources, cause error, destroy system and slow down the performance.
6.	It is more harmful.	It is less harmful as compared.
7.	TDSS, ZeroAccess, Alureon and  Necurs are some of the common rootkit.	Resident and Non -resident viruses are two types of Virus.