Mangled packet

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A mangled or invalid packet is a packet of computer network data, based on ethernet and TCP/IP. Instead of having sound order or content, the packet is mangled or mis-ordered to confuse computers, firewalls, routers or any service present on the network or Internet.

Notable software tools such as nmap or Nessus can generate these types of mis-ordered / mangled packets to confuse and even shut down these devices.

This is commonly associated with a type of network attack called a denial-of-service attack. Inadequate networks can be flooded with these types of network packets to confuse routers and computers.

Sometimes, a mangled packet is used to open the network ajar and to see what other services are available when operators need to restart disabled devices.