Software Foundations for Cybersecurity: Wireshark Lab Analysis Report

This assignment is a practical lab report that focuses on using Wireshark, a powerful network traffic analyzer, to understand network protocols and identify potential security vulnerabilities. The report begins with an introduction to Wireshark and its capabilities, including its use in both monitoring network attacks and sniffing sensitive information. The lab involves capturing network traffic, analyzing individual packets, and applying filters to isolate specific types of data. The student explores the Wireshark GUI, captures live network traffic, and examines various protocols like TCP, UDP, and ICMP. The assignment addresses questions about Wireshark's functionalities, including its ability to capture traffic, detect unsecured applications, and the impact of network configurations. The student reflects on the implications of network traffic analysis on privacy and the importance of security measures. The report highlights the significance of staying updated with security patches and using antivirus software to enhance system security. The conclusion emphasizes Wireshark's role as a crucial tool for network protocol analysis worldwide.