It is also known as a packet analyzer, network analyzer or protocol analyzer. It is a computer software or computer hardware which intercepts and logs traffic passing over a digital network or part of a network. As data streams flow across the network, the sniffer captures each packet and ultimately decodes and analyzes its content according to the appropriate RFC or other specifications. A packet sniffer is used to:
- Analyze network problems
- Detect network intrusion attempts
- Gain information for effecting a network intrusion
- Monitor network usage
- Gather and report network statistics
- Filter suspect content from network traffic
- Spy on other network users and collect sensitive information such as passwords
- Reverse engineer proprietary protocols used over the network
- Debug client/server communications
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