What role does a Network Monitoring Tool play in access control?

A Network Monitoring Tool primarily serves to oversee the flow of data across a network, identifying and analyzing network traffic patterns. Its role in access control centers around monitoring for inconsistencies or anomalies that may indicate unauthorized access attempts, potential security breaches, or other malicious activities. By providing insights into who is accessing network resources and how they are behaving, these tools assist administrators in maintaining security and ensuring that only authorized users are accessing specific data and systems.

For example, if a network monitoring tool detects unusual spikes in traffic from a specific user or IP address, it can raise alerts, allowing administrators to investigate further. This proactive monitoring is essential for maintaining a secure network environment and supports a robust access control framework by providing the necessary visibility into user behavior and network integrity.