Bandwidth monitoring is the process of tracking the amount of data transmitted over a network during a specific period. It helps network administrators understand how much bandwidth is being used and identify any potential issues, such as congestion or unauthorized usage. By monitoring bandwidth, organizations can ensure that their network operates efficiently and meets the needs of users. Effective bandwidth monitoring tools can provide real-time data and historical reports, allowing for better decision-making regarding network upgrades or adjustments. These tools can also help in optimizing network performance by identifying peak usage times and the applications consuming the most bandwidth.