Shellcode vs. Payload — What's the Difference?

In hacking, a shellcode is a small piece of code used as the payload in the exploitation of a software vulnerability. It is called "shellcode" because it typically starts a command shell from which the attacker can control the compromised machine, but any piece of code that performs a similar task can be called shellcode.

Payload is the object or the entity which is being carried by an aircraft or launch vehicle. Sometimes payload also refers to the carrying capacity of an aircraft or launch vehicle, usually measured in terms of weight.

(computing) A small piece of code, used as the payload of a virus or other malware, that launches a shell so that the attacker can control the compromised computer.

The revenue-producing part of a cargo.

The total weight of passengers and cargo that an aircraft carries or can carry.

The total weight of the instruments, crew, and life-support systems that a spacecraft carries or can carry.

The passengers, crew, instruments, or equipment carried by an aircraft, spacecraft, or rocket.

An explosive charge, biological or chemical agent, or other destructive element borne by a missile or bomb.

That part of a cargo that produces revenue.

The total weight of passengers, crew, equipment, and cargo carried by an aircraft or spacecraft.

That part of a rocket, missile, propelled stinger, or torpedo that is not concerned with propulsion or guidance, such as a warhead or satellite.

(computing) The functional part of a computer virus or another type of malware program, rather than the part that spreads it.

(communication) The actual data in a data stream.

The part of a missile or torpedo that carries the explosive charge.

The goods carried by a large vehicle.

The front part of a guided missile or rocket or torpedo that carries the nuclear or explosive charge or the chemical or biological agents

Goods carried by a large vehicle