Network management involves using network and protocol analysis tools to
establish a network system baseline and to monitor and optimize performance.

Protocol
analyzers are almost always software-based. They are used to gather information
about traffic flows and are useful for establishing a network baseline.
Although they do not decode the contents of frames, protocol analyzers are
often used for solving Layer 2 and higher problems.
They can be used to
assist in locating traffic overloads, planning for network expansion, detecting
intruders, establishing baseline performance, and distributing traffic more
efficiently.
Examples of protocol analyzers include Fluke’s Protocol
Inspector and Sniffer Pro Protocol Analyzer.
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NOTE:
Some devices may come equipped with traffic monitoring capabilities.
For example, the Cisco Catalyst® 6500 Series switch can be equipped with a
Network Analysis Module (NAM). The NAM is an integrated and powerful traffic
monitoring system. It comes with an embedded web-based Traffic Analyzer, which
provides full scale remote monitoring and troubleshooting capabilities
accessible through a web browser.
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