Payload vs Shellcode - What's the difference?

In computing terms the difference between payload and shellcode

is that payload is the functional part of a computer virus rather than the part that spreads it while shellcode is 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.

As nouns the difference between payload and shellcode

is that payload is that part of a cargo that produces revenue while shellcode is 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.

payload

English

Noun

(wikipedia payload) (en noun)

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 rather than the part that spreads it

(communication) The actual data in a data stream

shellcode

English

(wikipedia shellcode)

Noun

(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.