Packet Sniffer and Analyzer using Python - Technical & Engineering Guide
1. Introduction
1.1 Purpose
This guide provides comprehensive instructions for designing and implementing a Packet Sniffer and Analyzer using Python. The tool captures network packets in real-time and analyzes their contents for monitoring, debugging, and forensic purposes.
1.2 Scope
The project is intended for network administrators, cybersecurity professionals, and developers seeking a customizable solution for network monitoring and traffic analysis.
1.3 Definitions & Acronyms
|
Acronym |
Definition |
|
IP |
Internet Protocol |
|
TCP |
Transmission Control Protocol |
|
UDP |
User Datagram Protocol |
|
MAC |
Media Access Control |
|
HTTP |
Hypertext Transfer Protocol |
|
DNS |
Domain Name System |
2. System Architecture
The Packet Sniffer and Analyzer consists of the following
components:
- **Packet Capturing Module**: Intercepts network packets in real-time.
- **Packet Parsing Module**: Extracts and decodes packet headers and payloads.
- **Analysis Module**: Identifies protocols, flags suspicious traffic, and
extracts metadata.
- **Visualization Module**: Displays traffic statistics and detailed packet
information.
3. Key Features
3.1 Real-Time Packet Capture
Intercept network traffic on specified interfaces and log details for analysis.
3.2 Protocol Parsing
Decode various protocols such as TCP, UDP, HTTP, DNS, and ICMP for detailed inspection.
3.3 Traffic Analysis
Analyze traffic patterns, detect anomalies, and identify potential threats.
4. Implementation Steps
1. **Environment Setup**: Install Python and required
libraries (e.g., Scapy, pyshark).
2. **Packet Capturing**: Use Scapy or socket library to intercept network
packets.
3. **Packet Decoding**: Parse packet headers and payloads to extract key
fields.
4. **Traffic Analysis**: Implement algorithms to analyze traffic patterns and
identify anomalies.
5. **Visualization**: Display results using libraries like Matplotlib or Dash.
5. Security Considerations
1. Run the tool with administrative privileges to access
network interfaces.
2. Use secure storage for captured data to prevent unauthorized access.
3. Avoid deploying sniffers in production environments without proper
authorization.
6. Testing and Validation
1. Test the sniffer on various network configurations to
ensure compatibility.
2. Validate packet decoding accuracy using sample traffic.
3. Simulate attacks like port scans or DoS to evaluate detection capabilities.
7. Tools and Technologies
- **Programming Language**: Python
- **Libraries**: Scapy, pyshark, socket
- **Testing Tools**: Wireshark, nmap, hping3
- **Visualization**: Matplotlib, Plotly