Which phase follows the propagation phase in the lifecycle of a virus?

In the lifecycle of a virus, the propagation phase is where the virus spreads to other systems or files, attempting to replicate itself. Following this phase, the next step is typically the triggering phase. During this phase, specific conditions or triggers are met that activate the virus's payload or malicious actions.

The triggering phase is critical as it determines when and how the virus will execute its intended harmful behavior. This can involve user actions or specific environmental factors that prompt the virus to activate. Understanding this phase is essential in grasping how viruses operate and how they can impact system security.

The other phases mentioned, such as integration, execution, and infection, deal with different aspects of virus behavior but do not directly represent the correct sequence following the propagation phase. Thus, identifying the triggering phase as the correct subsequent phase highlights the importance of the conditions that lead to a virus becoming operational after it has spread.