Wireshark

Wireshark

Welcome to your comprehensive journey into network analysis using Wireshark, the world’s foremost network protocol analyzer. This course equips you with the skills to perform deep network analysis, troubleshoot, secure, and optimize network operations. Wireshark is an open-source tool essential in IT environments for its powerful capabilities in capturing and analyzing network traffic. This tool is invaluable for both professionals and beginners, offering critical insights into network issues. You will learn to capture real-time data, examine packets, and effectively use Wireshark’s features through hands-on labs. Additionally, you will identify network performance and security issues, enhancing your technical skills. Whether a student, professional, or enthusiast, this course provides a solid foundation in network analysis using Wireshark.

Course Outline

Module 1: Introduction to Wireshark

1.1 Overview of Network Analysis
Introduction to network analysis concepts, the importance of network monitoring, and how Wireshark fits into the analysis toolkit.

1.2 Installing Wireshark
Guidance on downloading and installing Wireshark on different operating systems, including necessary configuration and setup.

1.3 First Capture and Basic Navigation
Steps to perform your first packet capture and basic navigation through the Wireshark interface to become familiar with its layout and features.

Module 2: Getting Started with Wireshark

2.1 Wireshark Interface Overview
Familiarization with the Wireshark graphical user interface (GUI); understanding the main window, menus, toolbars, and status bars.

2.2 Basic Packet Capturing Techniques
How to capture packets, understand and use capture filters, and manage capture options.

2.3 Saving and Exporting Captures
Methods for saving capture files and exporting packet data in various formats for further analysis.

Module 3: Deep Dive into Packet Analysis

3.1 Understanding Packet Details
Analyzing packet components such as headers and protocols; interpreting the information presented in the packet detail pane.

3.2 Filters and Their Usage
Creating and applying display filters to isolate relevant data for deeper analysis.

3.3 Reassembling Streams
Techniques for reassembling and analyzing data streams to understand complete conversations in the network traffic.

Module 4: Advanced Features and Techniques

4.1 Color Coding and Packet Marking
Configuring color rules for easier packet analysis and using packet marking to highlight important packets.

4.2 Using Graphs and Statistics
Employing Wireshark’s statistical tools to analyze traffic patterns and network problems.

4.3 Customizing Wireshark
Customizing Wireshark’s layout and preferences to enhance usability and efficiency.

Module 5: Practical Network Troubleshooting

5.1 Common Protocols Analysis
Hands-on exercises focusing on HTTP, DNS, FTP, and other common protocols; identifying and resolving typical issues.

5.2 Network Performance and Security Issues
Techniques to detect and analyze network performance bottlenecks and security threats such as DoS attacks and malware.

5.3 Using Wireshark for Forensics
Applying Wireshark in network forensics to trace security breaches and gather evidence.

Module 6: Capturing and Analyzing Encrypted Traffic

6.1 TLS and SSL Traffic
Methods to capture and analyze encrypted traffic, understanding the limitations and legal implications.

6.2 Decrypting SSL/TLS Traffic
Approaches to decrypt SSL/TLS traffic for analysis, including required keys and certificates.

Module 7: Automation and Customization

7.1 Creating Custom Wireshark Profiles
Tailoring Wireshark environments to specific tasks or projects; sharing profiles among team members.

7.2 Automating Tasks with Tshark
Introduction to Tshark for command-line packet analysis and automation scripts.

7.3 Scripting with Wireshark
Writing scripts to extend Wireshark’s functionality and automate repetitive tasks.

Module 8: Capstone Project

8.1 Capstone Project
A comprehensive project that requires students to apply all the skills learned to solve a real-world network issue using Wireshark.

8.2 Further Resources and Continuing Education
Guidance on further learning resources, communities, and certifications in network analysis.