What are the most common network traffic analysis mistakes and how to avoid them?

1 Mistake 1: Not filtering the traffic

One of the most common network traffic analysis mistakes is not filtering the traffic before analyzing it. This can result in a lot of noise, irrelevant data, and wasted time and resources. Filtering the traffic allows you to focus on the most important and relevant information, such as specific protocols, ports, hosts, applications, or events. You can use various tools and techniques to filter the traffic, such as capture filters, display filters, packet slicing, or protocol decoders.

2 Mistake 2: Not baselining the traffic

Another common network traffic analysis mistake is not baselining the traffic, which means not having a clear understanding of what is normal and expected on your network. Without a baseline, you can't easily detect anomalies, deviations, or signs of compromise on your network. Baselining the traffic involves collecting and analyzing data over a period of time, and establishing metrics and thresholds for different aspects of the network, such as volume, throughput, latency, errors, or protocols.

3 Mistake 3: Not correlating the traffic

A third common network traffic analysis mistake is not correlating the traffic, which means not looking at the bigger picture and the context of the network activity. Correlating the traffic helps you identify patterns, trends, relationships, and causes and effects of the network behavior. For example, you can correlate the traffic with other sources of data, such as logs, alerts, or events, to gain more insight and visibility into your network. You can also correlate the traffic across different layers, segments, or devices of your network, to understand how they interact and affect each other.

4 Mistake 4: Not securing the traffic

A fourth common network traffic analysis mistake is not securing the traffic, which means not protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the network data. Securing the traffic involves using encryption, authentication, and authorization to prevent unauthorized access, modification, or disruption of the network communication. For example, you can use protocols such as SSL/TLS, SSH, or VPN to encrypt the traffic, and tools such as certificates, keys, or passwords to authenticate and authorize the traffic.

5 Mistake 5: Not documenting the traffic

A fifth common network traffic analysis mistake is not documenting the traffic, which means not recording, organizing, and reporting the results and findings of your analysis. Documenting the traffic helps you communicate and share your analysis with others, such as your team, management, or clients. It also helps you keep track of your progress, challenges, and solutions, and improve your skills and knowledge. Documenting the traffic involves using tools such as screenshots, annotations, comments, or reports to capture and present your analysis.

6 Mistake 6: Not updating the traffic

A sixth common network traffic analysis mistake is not updating the traffic, which means not keeping up with the changes and developments in your network and the network environment. Updating the traffic involves monitoring and adjusting your analysis according to the new or modified network conditions, requirements, or threats. For example, you can update your traffic by applying new filters, rules, or policies, or by using new tools, techniques, or standards.

7 Here’s what else to consider

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