The library manages a buffer that stores packets copied from the kernel. Applications call pcap_dispatch or pcap_loop to retrieve these packets via callback functions. Conversely, pcap_sendpacket allows applications to inject raw packets onto the wire, a capability often used for network stress testing and attack simulation.
As of 2013, the original WinPcap project ceased active development. This stagnation led to compatibility issues with newer Windows versions (Windows 8, 10, and 11) and the discontinuation of support for NDIS 6.x drivers.
Utilizing a programmable engine to filter packets based on specific user-defined rules.