What functionality does ARP Watch provide?

ARP Watch is a network monitoring tool that plays a crucial role in identifying and preventing ARP poisoning attacks. ARP poisoning involves sending forged ARP messages over a local area network to link an attacker's MAC address with the IP address of a legitimate computer or server. This enables the attacker to intercept, modify, or disrupt communications between network devices.

ARP Watch enhances network security by keeping track of all ARP traffic on the network and maintaining a database of IP-to-MAC address mappings. It monitors these mappings for any changes, alerting administrators to unauthorized alterations that may indicate a potential ARP spoofing attack. By quickly identifying these suspicious activities, ARP Watch effectively helps to prevent ARP poisoning and maintain the integrity of the network.

While monitoring bandwidth usage, filtering unwanted traffic, and optimizing network performance are essential components of network management and security, they do not specifically address the problems associated with ARP attacks the way ARP Watch does. Thus, the functionality of ARP Watch is centered around its ability to prevent ARP poisoning, making it a vital tool for maintaining network security.