What device interprets traffic passing over a network, captures signals without altering the traffic segment, and is used to monitor network usage?

What device interprets traffic passing over a network, captures signals without altering the traffic segment, and is used to monitor network usage?

• A. Router
• B. Firewall
• C. Hardware protocol analyzer
• D. Switch

Answer: (C)

To monitor network usage you want something that can read traffic without affecting it. A hardware protocol analyzer is designed to listen passively to signals on the network, often via a tap or mirrored port, and decode the protocols in use. It interprets the traffic as it travels but does not forward or modify packets, providing an accurate view of what’s happening on the network. Routers, firewalls, and switches are in-line devices that forward, filter, or alter traffic, which can change the traffic flow or introduce delays. So the tool that best fits the description—interpreting traffic, capturing signals without altering the segment, and used to monitor usage—is the hardware protocol analyzer.

To monitor network usage you want something that can read traffic without affecting it. A hardware protocol analyzer is designed to listen passively to signals on the network, often via a tap or mirrored port, and decode the protocols in use. It interprets the traffic as it travels but does not forward or modify packets, providing an accurate view of what’s happening on the network. Routers, firewalls, and switches are in-line devices that forward, filter, or alter traffic, which can change the traffic flow or introduce delays. So the tool that best fits the description—interpreting traffic, capturing signals without altering the segment, and used to monitor usage—is the hardware protocol analyzer.