Final answer:
A NIC can be set up to retrieve any data packet on an Ethernet network in Capture Mode, which allows it to operate in a promiscuous state to monitor and analyze all network traffic.
Step-by-step explanation:
A NIC (Network Interface Card) can be set up to retrieve any data packet being transferred throughout the Ethernet network segment in a mode known as Capture Mode. In this mode, the NIC operates in a promiscuous state, allowing it to intercept and analyze all network traffic, regardless of its destination. This is especially useful for network administrators and security professionals for monitoring network activity, diagnosing network issues, and ensuring network security.
A NIC provides a computer with a dedicated, full-time connection to a network. It implements the physical layer circuitry necessary for communicating with a data link layer standard, such as Ethernet or Wi-Fi. Each card represents a device and can prepare, transmit and control the flow of data on the network.
The NIC uses the OSI model to send signals at the physical layer, transmit data packets at the network layer and operate as an interface at the TCP/IP layer.