An independent computer program that replicates itself across a network is known as a?

A program that replicates itself across a network is best described as a worm. Worms are a specific type of malicious software (malware) that exploit vulnerabilities in operating systems or software to self-replicate and spread without user intervention. They can propagate through various methods, including email attachments, network shares, or exploiting network protocols, effectively moving from one computer to another. The ability of a worm to spread autonomously makes it distinct from other types of malware.

In contrast, a Trojan horse typically disguises itself as legitimate software to trick users into installing it, but it does not replicate itself across networks. A bug refers to an error or flaw in software that causes it not to work as intended, rather than being a self-replicating entity. The term pest is not a formally recognized term in cybersecurity for describing a type of malware. Therefore, the specific characteristics of self-replication and autonomous spreading align with the definition of a worm, making it the correct answer.