Hardware
The exercises illustrated in this paper can be performed in three different
environments, requiring varying amounts of hardware support. First, supply the student
with a capture file created by the instructor. The student runs Wireshark for viewing and
no actual packet sniffing is done by the student. No special hardware is required other
than a personal computer for each student. Second, the student generates network traffic
on the same machine that is running Wireshark. The computer must be connected to a
network. Third, have the student capture live traffic from other computers, not just the
one running Wireshark. In order to capture packets from other computers a hub, or
special configuration of a switch will be needed. It is important to get permission from
the Director of IT at your school prior to the sniffing session. Some institutions prohibit
such activities