What is packet sniffing used for in networking?

Packet sniffing is primarily used to capture and analyze data packets traveling over a network. This process involves using a packet sniffer, which is a specialized software or hardware tool that intercepts and logs traffic that passes over a digital network or part of a network. By examining the captured packets, network administrators can gain insights into various aspects of network performance, troubleshoot issues, and monitor for anomalies or potential security threats.

Through packet sniffing, one can access information about the flow of data within the network, including source and destination IP addresses, protocols used, and the nature of the data being transmitted. This capability is essential for diagnosing problems, ensuring efficient network operation, and maintaining overall performance.

While packet sniffing can be a valuable tool for enhancing network security by identifying unauthorized access or potential vulnerabilities, its primary function remains the analysis of data packets traveling through the network. The other options involve concepts that are either secondary uses of packet sniffing or are not directly related to its primary purpose.