Network monitoring is the continuous process of observing and analyzing data traffic across computer networks. Its main goal is to detect unusual activity, performance issues, or potential security threats in real time. By using specialized software and tools, network administrators can identify problems like unauthorized access, malware, or bottlenecks, helping to ensure the network remains secure, efficient, and reliable. Effective network monitoring enables organizations to respond quickly to incidents, minimize downtime, and maintain the overall health of their IT infrastructure.