What is the function of Packet Mirroring?

Packet mirroring serves the critical function of capturing and sending a copy of network packets to another interface or a remote firewall for analysis and monitoring purposes. This technique is widely used in network security and management, allowing administrators to observe traffic patterns, detect anomalies, and assess the performance of applications and services running on the network.

By mirroring packets, network professionals can conduct thorough traffic analysis without interrupting the original data flow. This can be invaluable for troubleshooting, conducting security assessments, or complying with various monitoring regulations and standards. The ability to analyze these mirrored packets in a secure or separate environment helps ensure that even sensitive data can be studied without risking exposure during the process.

In practical terms, this functionality allows for better visibility into the network's operations, enabling proactive identification of potential issues before they impact users or the overall infrastructure.