What is the key characteristic of Monitor Mode?

Monitor Mode is a specific operational mode for access points (APs) in which they are configured primarily to monitor the wireless environment rather than to serve client traffic. In this mode, APs do not transmit any data to clients; instead, they passively listen to the radio spectrum to gather information about the wireless network and detect various metrics such as signal strength, interference, and the presence of rogue devices.

This characteristic allows the AP to perform functions like spectrum analysis, intrusion detection, and network monitoring, providing valuable insights into the wireless network's performance and security posture. By not transmitting at all, Monitor Mode is effectively utilized to ensure that the AP can gather as much information as possible about the wireless landscape without introducing any additional traffic or interference.

Other operational modes, such as those mentioned in the other options, involve the active participation of the APs in network transmission or client handling, which contradicts the fundamental principle of Monitor Mode.