Network sniffing is a technique that uses hardware and software to intercept and analyze data packets on a network. It can be used for legitimate purposes like troubleshooting, but is often associated with hackers. Sniffing can be done internally or externally, and can reveal information about network hardware and security vulnerabilities.
Network sniffing is a method of using specialized hardware and software to gain access to information that is not being sent to anyone, or to analyze networks that individuals do not have legitimate access to. Most sniffers work by analyzing data packets. Depending on the type of network sniffing used, the sniffer can read these packets both inside and outside a network. While network sniffing has several legitimate uses, it is generally associated with the hacker community.
After information is sent over a network, it is split into packets. These packets contain a small amount of information, recipient and sender addresses, and some technical data. Specialized hardware or software can intercept and copy these packets. Once he has a copy, a user is able to open the package and read the information and addresses.
When done from within a network, this is usually an internal security and troubleshooting method. System administrators will randomly monitor packets to make sure the intended recipient isn’t trying to circumvent Internet security protocols or access blocked locations. With this form of network sniffing, only addresses are typically read.
When used as an internal network troubleshooting method, packets are analyzed in streams, often originating from an entire network switch. Packets are checked for data degradation or missing sequences. If you’re having trouble, it’s likely that your network has a faulty piece of hardware. Further locations are tested using similar methods until the faulty piece is found.
External network sniffing has two key areas; wireless and wired. Wireless sniffing involves physically moving around and searching for wireless hotspots. Packet analyzers are used on the information going out through the wireless system to find the types of hardware used for the transmission. You can then find the default login information and access the security features and vulnerabilities of that specific piece of hardware.
Wired sniffing is usually done for one of two reasons. The most common reason is to try to find information about the network the packets are coming from or destined for. By analyzing the addresses and packet information, a person can learn about internal network hardware and specific addresses. This could highlight a security vulnerability or a previously unknown network access method.
The other main reason for eavesdropping on wired packets is information theft. The packets contain a small amount of information. While this information is lightly encrypted, it is far from secure. People can open packages and search the data for important information. Some systems have enhanced internal security, such as online credit card systems, that prevent data theft in this way.
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