What is the primary function of a keylogger?

A keylogger's primary function is to record keystrokes made on a keyboard. This means it captures every key that a user presses, which can include sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, and personal messages. Keyloggers can operate in various forms, ranging from software applications installed on a computer to physical devices attached to keyboards. Their usage can be legitimate, such as for monitoring children's online activities or for troubleshooting, but they are often associated with malicious activities like stealing private information.

The other functions described in the other choices do not align with the fundamental purpose of a keylogger. Monitoring network traffic pertains to analyzing data packets traveling over a network, which is unrelated to the action of logging keystrokes. Encrypting files involves securing data by converting it into a coded format, which protects information rather than recording user input. Updating software pertains to keeping applications and systems current but does not involve user interaction at the level of capturing keystrokes.