Active and Passive Network Monitoring: Tools and Techniques
Network monitoring is an essential practice for maintaining the security and performance of computer networks. Active and passive monitoring are two common approaches used to observe and analyze network traffic. Active monitoring involves injecting test traffic into the network, while passive monitoring focuses on observing existing network traffic. This article explores the concepts of active and passive network monitoring, discusses popular tools like Wireshark, Active Network Monitor (ANM), DNS tools, and Nmap, and highlights their functionalities in network analysis and troubleshooting. By leveraging these network monitoring tools, organizations can proactively detect issues, identify potential threats, and ensure the smooth operation of their networks.