What is the difference between Network and protocol analyzers??

[Molondo]

 

[ch33zw1z]

You pretty much answered your own question already.

A "Network" analyzer will return data concerning the overall network. such as: bandwidth usage, speed, collisions, etc..

A "protocol" analyzer will return data specific to the protocol you choose to analyze.

 

[Molondo]

Thank you for the Input. I have been searching the internet on these. Many if not all websites classify these as same things "Network analyzer aka protocol analyzer" or the other way around. Maybe you would know of a website that would go into more detail?

Thank you very much.

EDIT: I think i need to learn what a protocol is. That will probably shed some light. thanks for the direction 🙂

 

[ch33zw1z]

Protocol is a set of rules to perform a task. They're what actually make your network operate 🙂

What exactly are you trying to analyze?

 

[nweaver]

Network analyzer is a BROAD term...everything from NTOP to Wireshark to even MRTG.

 

[Molondo]

Originally posted by: ch33zw1z
Protocol is a set of rules to perform a task. They're what actually make your network operate 🙂

What exactly are you trying to analyze?

Well, nothing actually. I have a course in Networks Introduction... its kind of a self thought deal :| I have a presentation in a couple days regarding these things. Im pretty stumped 🙁

 

[ch33zw1z]

Guess you'll be pulling all nighters, recommend you pick up a Networks+ manual and read. it will give you all the basic info about how networks operate. What you are asking about is centered around the OSI 7 Layer model, google that and you should come up with enough info to get you by.

 

[Molondo]

Will do that, thanks!