What is packet sniffing?

Packet sniffing refers to the process used to capture and analyze packets of data as they travel across a network. It involves using specific software tools, often known as packet sniffers, to intercept the data that is flowing between computers within a network. This allows an administrator or a malicious actor to view the content of the packets, which could include sensitive information such as passwords, emails, or any other type of data being transmitted.

The role of packet sniffing is pivotal in network management and security analysis, as it can help diagnose network issues, uncover unauthorized activity, or monitor network performance. However, it can also present risks, especially if used for malicious purposes, as it may lead to data breaches or unauthorized access to sensitive information. Understanding packet sniffing is essential for both network administrators looking to secure their environments and for ethical hacking practices that aim to strengthen security measures.