How is Snooping different from Eavesdropping?
Snooping refers to the secret capture and analysis of network traffic. In this process, network traffic can be stored for later analysis. For example, it is similar to making a copy of a letter to read later while sending the original to the intended address. It is also known as Sniffing.
Eavesdropping is the unauthorized real-time interception or monitoring of private communication between two entities over a network. Unlike snooping, it happens in real time. An example includes listening to a private conversation using a hidden microphone.
The key difference is that eavesdropping occurs in real-time, whereas snooping does not happen in real-time and allows for data to be stored for later analysis.
Explanation
The textbook distinguishes the two concepts primarily based on the timing of the interception. Section 12.9.3 defines Snooping as the analysis of network traffic that can be stored for later, whereas Section 12.9.4 defines Eavesdropping as real-time monitoring. The text explicitly states, 'While the former happens in real time, the latter does not,' using the analogy of a hidden microphone for eavesdropping versus copying a letter for snooping.