No matter how information and communications technology evolves, data in motion will remain unchanged. Hackers will invariably target major arteries and data traffic lanes. Network traffic monitoring is therefore crucial for organizations of all shapes and sizes. It’s monitoring helps maintain network performance and speed, and also functions as a protection for potential problems.

This is the process of analysing network usage issues that layout the security and performance of applications running on the network.

Here we will talk both the benefits of network traffic monitoring and the weightier way to apply.

also discuss the best traffic monitoring tools, methods and practices.

• Use Cases and Benefits
• How to Monitor Network Traffic
• The Three Best Network Monitoring tools
• Three Sysadmin practices for Traffic Monitorin

Overview: Use Cases and Benefits 

When errors are detected in real time, problems can be resolved in real time and network services can continue to run efficiently without disturbance.

By considering network traffic, you can:

Troubleshoot bandwidth overload

Bandwidth is the amount of information that can be sent over a connection. By monitoring network traffic, you can analyse and resolve bandwidth issues that may be slowing you down.

Track audit trail of user activity across the network

The audit trail shows all changes made to a database or file. By tracking audit trails, you can see how users are using your network and receive alerts about suspicious malware.

Enhance user experience

By having a good understanding of network usage, your services will be delivered. without errors and run at high speeds to ensure users are satisfied with the quality of your network.

This is crucial to advancing network performance for users and preventing security incidents. To do this, you need to know exactly how to monitor your network traffic. We’ll dive into that next.

How to Monitor Traffic 

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Here are some tips to learn how to Monitor Traffic on any device.

Step 1 – Choose the most suitable data source

To start exploring the depths of your network, you need to gain insight into the data. There are 3 key data sources to choose from to best meet your network traffic monitoring goals.

• Flow data – The most common data source, also known as network flow monitoring, allows you to track bandwidth and packets.
• packets Data – Extracted from network packets, packet data allows you to monitor how users use your services and receive alerts on any suspected malware.
• Wi-Fi Data Using high-speed 802.11ac Wi-Fi to monitor networks, this data source allows you to analyse Wi-Fi traffic.

Step 2: Discover the top applications running on your network

After identifying the most appropriate data source, discovering how users are accessing your network will allow you to trace usage back to the user’s origin. A network topology mapper is a specific tool used to map real-time data usage from devices, interfaces, applications, VPNs, and users in a visual context. This will allow you to describe the flow of traffic on your network and monitor any unwanted usage.

Step 3: Apply network tools

In addition to a network topology mapper, there are several network monitoring tools you’ll want to consider using in order to have full control over your network traffic and security. familiarizing yourself with the terrain before deciding which tools are best for your budget and technology.

The Three Best Traffic Monitoring Tools

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1. Wireshark

Wireshark, one of the most widely used network monitoring and wringer tools, is known to be a powerful tool for system administrators and IT professionals at all levels. In fact it quickly detects network problems and enables system administrators to troubleshoot network errors in real time. Thus It detects suspicious worriedness on the network and allows administrators to drill lanugo into the traffic and find the root rationalization of the problem.

2. SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor

Part of SolarWinds comprehensive suite of network performance tools, Network Performance Monitor is one of the most effective and easy-to-use network monitoring tools on the market. However the platform also enables availability monitoring, critical path visualization, and advanced alerts.

3. Data Dog

A newer player in the network monitoring game, It has created a network monitoring tool that is quite stunning from a data visualization outlook. Additionally this allows administrators to visualize network traffic flows across a cloud or hybrid network. For users who are visually likely and looking for a proven undertaking network traffic monitoring tool, It’s network performance monitoring feature is a solid choice.

Three Sysadmin Best Practices for Monitoring

selecting the right monitoring tool is first piece of the question. below are some tips for system administrators on how they can make the most of what they have and monitor their networks much more successfully.

1.Monitor as much as you can

Don’t be convince to monitor only specific network components or channels that you think are most vulnerable or a priority. Because inevitably, problems will arise where you least expect it. Hence monitoring only a few ports on a switch, for example, creates potential blind spots. In the same way you can and cover as much ground as possible.

2.Interpret the correct data sources

You will need to have a good understanding of the difference between Flow and Packet data, so that you can interpret what is happening through your traffic monitoring tool, Flow data, for example, is ideal for detecting unauthorized WAN traffic. Data packets, on the other hand, can alert administrators to things like doubtful malware or Trojan horse attacks. Know your data sources and what they can tell you.

3. Inspect Data Packets Carefully

Data packets are often the place where malware or malicious software is transmitted on their networks. This is where a robust network monitoring tool comes into play, in combination with some form of violation detection system (IDS). Also, make sure your firewalls are properly configured to add the chances of doubtful data packets being stopped and inspected.

Ending Thoughts

Network traffic monitoring will help ensure a strong cybersecurity position and alert system administrators to doubtful or malicious activity before significant damage occurs. Monitoring network traffic is only one part of an overall effective business network security strategy.

For example, you might consider implementing a NAC solution to complement traffic monitoring efforts. Finally apply the right monitoring tools and working with an experienced partner like Varonis, you will be able to stop and remove malware immediately.