Snort is a powerful open-source tool designed for network administrators to monitor and analyze IP network traffic in real-time, detecting intruders and logging incoming packets. By examining protocols and identifying unusual behaviors linked to various attacks such as buffer overflows, port scanning, and OS fingerprinting, Snort ensures robust network security. It employs a flexible, rule-based language to specify data capture criteria, and its modular scanning engine can be enhanced with plugins. Snort provides real-time alerts to administrators about suspicious activities. Compatible with IPv6, Snort integrates with databases like MySQL, ODBC, Microsoft SQL Server, and Oracle. Note that Snort operates via command line, and configuration requires manual editing of the snort.conf file.
Snort brings a lot to the table! I love the group chat feature and how easy it is to use. That said, I find some glitches that pop up now and then, which is frustrating. Worth trying though!