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In computing, "payload" refers to the main data being transmitted, distinct from the overhead data needed for transmission. The term has different meanings depending on the context: in networking, it's the actual data in a packet; in cybersecurity, it's the malicious code that performs harmful actions; and in software development, it's the useful content in an API request or response.

Common uses of "payload"

Networking: The payload is the data being transferred, such as an email's text or an image file being sent over the internet. This is the part that has a purpose, while headers and other metadata are just for directing the data.

Cybersecurity: In this context, a payload is the part of a virus, worm, or Trojan horse that performs the malicious action. Examples include ransomware that encrypts files or spyware that steals data. This malicious payload can be hidden within what appears to be a normal data packet.

Software Development: The payload is the valuable data in an API request or response. For example, in a POST request to a web service, the JSON or XML data containing the information to be processed is the payload.

Encryption: Payloads can be the data that is encrypted to protect its confidentiality and privacy during transmission.