Which statement best describes the function of a protocol analyzer?

Which statement best describes the function of a protocol analyzer?

• A. It blocks network traffic.
• B. It analyzes the value and contents of captured packets to detect network problems.
• C. It routes packets.
• D. It encrypts captured data.

Answer: (B)

A protocol analyzer is used to observe and interpret network traffic. It captures packets and decodes their headers and payload, letting you inspect the actual data being transmitted, the protocol fields, and timing information. This enables identifying problems such as corrupted or malformed packets, protocol errors, unusual patterns, or performance bottlenecks. It does not block traffic, route packets, or encrypt data—that would be functions of a firewall, router, or encryption tool. So it analyzes the value and contents of captured packets to detect network problems.

A protocol analyzer is used to observe and interpret network traffic. It captures packets and decodes their headers and payload, letting you inspect the actual data being transmitted, the protocol fields, and timing information. This enables identifying problems such as corrupted or malformed packets, protocol errors, unusual patterns, or performance bottlenecks. It does not block traffic, route packets, or encrypt data—that would be functions of a firewall, router, or encryption tool. So it analyzes the value and contents of captured packets to detect network problems.