What is meant by the term "network sniffer"?

The term "network sniffer" refers to a tool that captures and analyzes packets of data on a network. This is a fundamental aspect of network monitoring and security. A network sniffer operates at a low level within the network stack and can be used to observe and log all the traffic that passes through the network interface it is monitoring.

By analyzing this data, network administrators can troubleshoot issues, detect unauthorized access attempts, and ensure that the network is functioning efficiently. Network sniffers can provide valuable insights into traffic patterns and help identify any irregularities that may indicate security threats or performance issues.

In contrast, encrypting network data pertains to securing information to prevent unauthorized access, which is unrelated to the monitoring function of a sniffer. A device that prevents unauthorized network access focuses on security measures rather than data capture. Lastly, while creating network traffic reports may be a function of some advanced tools, it does not define a network sniffer, which is primarily concerned with the interception and analysis of data packets.