What is the primary function of a protocol analyzer?

The primary function of a protocol analyzer is to monitor and record network information from packets. By capturing data packets as they traverse the network, a protocol analyzer enables administrators to observe network traffic in real-time or during analysis sessions. This allows for the inspection and decoding of different protocols and the detection of anomalies or performance issues within the network.

Using a protocol analyzer is crucial for troubleshooting, network management, and ensuring efficient operation. It helps in identifying bottlenecks, detecting unauthorized devices, and ensuring that the network is performing as expected. This capability is essential for network administrators as it provides insights into data flows, aiding in proactive maintenance and optimization of network resources.

In contrast, managing network infrastructure involves configuration and maintenance tasks, which is not the primary function of a protocol analyzer. Preventing unauthorized access to the network relates more to security measures and firewalls, while providing network security updates is generally associated with patch management processes rather than the role of a protocol analyzer.