The topic of whether viruses are alive has been debated, Port tells us, since viruses were discovered in 1898:
In order to replicate, viruses must first hijack the reproductive equipment of a host cell, redirecting it to ‘photocopy’ the genetic code of the virus and seal it inside a newly formed container, known as the capsid. Without a host cell, they simply can’t replicate.
They fail the second question for the same reason. Unlike other living organisms that can self-divide, splitting a single cell into two, viruses must ‘assemble’ themselves by taking control of the host cell, which manufactures and assembles the viral components.
Finally, a virus isn’t considered living because it doesn’t need to consume energy to survive, nor is it able to regulate its own temperature.
Jake Port, “Why are viruses considered non-living?” at Cosmos Magazine (October 15, 2021)
It doesn’t help settle the ongoing debate that there is no single definition of life. Or that giant viruses like the mimivirus blur the line. Or that viruses share some genetics with host cells.
Also, we often hear about the “strategies” of viruses. Which raises the question: If information had a physical form, would it be like viruses?
You may also wish to read: Mimivirus discoverer doubts Darwin, banned from publication in France