What is the term for the container that delivers an exploit to a target?

The term that refers to the container which delivers an exploit to a target is known as the payload. In the context of cybersecurity, a payload is often the part of an attack that carries out the intended malicious action after successfully exploiting a vulnerability. This could involve executing a command, installing malware, or extracting data.

In the realm of exploits, the payload is crucial as it is the mechanism that enacts the plan of the attacker once access has been gained. It is generally designed to perform specific tasks, such as exfiltrating sensitive data, establishing a backdoor, or causing damage to the target system.

While rootkits, malware, and patches are all relevant concepts within cybersecurity, they do not specifically refer to the delivery mechanism of an exploit. A rootkit is a type of malware designed to enable continued access to a computer while hiding its presence. Malware is a broad category that encompasses various offensive software, whereas patches are updates designed to rectify vulnerabilities in software systems to prevent exploits. Therefore, the defining characteristic of the payload as the delivery method makes it the correct choice.