CompTIA Network+ Practice Test

What is the primary use of protocol analyzers?

1. To display website traffic

2. To capture and analyze signals and data traffic

3. To enhance network security without monitoring traffic

4. To filter unnecessary data packets

The correct answer is: To capture and analyze signals and data traffic

Protocol analyzers are primarily used to capture and analyze signals and data traffic within a network. They function by intercepting and logging traffic that passes over the network, allowing network administrators or engineers to examine the data packets at various layers of the OSI model. This capability is crucial for troubleshooting network issues, optimizing performance, and ensuring correct data transmission. By analyzing the captured packets, users can identify bottlenecks, detect anomalies, and troubleshoot communication problems between devices. For instance, if a network is experiencing slow performance or dropped connections, a protocol analyzer can help pinpoint the source of the problem—whether it's a misconfigured device, high traffic volume, or a potential security issue—by providing detailed insights into the communication between the devices. While the other options mention aspects related to network monitoring, they either narrow the functionality of protocol analyzers or misrepresent their primary purpose. Displaying website traffic refers to a specific type of analysis rather than the broader capabilities of traffic capture and examination. Enhancing network security without monitoring traffic contradicts the very nature of protocol analysis, as it inherently involves monitoring. Filtering unnecessary data packets is a function typically associated with firewalls or other traffic management tools, rather than the primary role of a protocol analyzer, which is more about capturing