What role does a packet analyzer play in network troubleshooting?

A packet analyzer is a vital tool in network troubleshooting because it captures and inspects network packets as they traverse the network. This process allows network administrators to observe the data being transmitted and received, providing insights into the performance and health of the network. By analyzing packet data, any abnormal patterns, errors, or potential bottlenecks can be identified, thereby facilitating the diagnosis of issues such as latency, packet loss, or misconfigurations.

This capability is essential for maintaining reliable network performance and ensuring that data flows correctly between devices. The detailed information collected by a packet analyzer can help in pinpointing specific problems, making it an indispensable resource in a network troubleshooting toolkit.