ABSTRACT
A packet sniffer is a tool used to monitor and capture data traveling over a network. The packet sniffer is
similar to a telephone wiretap; but instead of listening to phone conversations, it listens to network
packets and conversations between hosts on the network. The word sniffer is generically used to describe
packet capture tools, similar to the way crescent wrench is used to describe an adjustable wrench. The
original sniffer was a product created by Network General (now a division of Network Associates called
Sniffer Technologies).
