Definition
A packet sniffer is a monitoring tool (hardware or software) that captures, analyzes, and logs data packets transmitted across a network. While it has many legitimate uses, such as network troubleshooting, security audits, and performance analysis, it can also be misused for malicious purposes, such as data theft, eavesdropping, and cyberattacks.
Network Sniffing Examples
- Tcpdump: This command-line packet analyzer tool captures and analyzes network traffic for troubleshooting purposes.
- Wireshark: An open-source network protocol analyzer inspects and analyzes data packets transmitted across a network.
Difference Between Packet Sniffer and Deep Packet Inspection
While both packet sniffers and deep packet inspection analyze network traffic, DPI delves deeper by inspecting data content within packets, enabling detailed inspection and filtering.
Packet Sniffer Tips
- Implement necessary access controls to ensure only authorized personnel can access packet sniffers.
- Use a reliable VPN service, like ExtremeVPN, to protect your data from malicious packet sniffers.