What is a primary use of traceroute?

Traceroute is primarily used to determine the path taken by packets to reach a destination. This diagnostic tool sends a series of packets to the target address and measures the time it takes for each packet to travel to the target and back. As the packets traverse the network, each router they pass through adds its own time delay, which traceroute records. This allows network administrators and engineers to see the series of hops and the corresponding round-trip times for each hop, providing valuable insight into the network's structure and performance.

The primary function of traceroute is to identify the route data takes across various networks and to help troubleshoot network issues. Understanding the path that packets take can assist in locating bottlenecks, delays, or failures in the network. By visualizing the route, users can make informed decisions regarding network optimization or issues that may be affecting connectivity.