In network security what is a honey pot and why is it used?

A honeypot is a security resource that is intentionally designed to be vulnerable and attract cyber attackers, simulating a legitimate target. It is used to study attack methods, gather intelligence on threats, and distract attackers from more valuable assets within a network. By analyzing the interactions with the honeypot, security teams can enhance their defenses and better understand potential vulnerabilities. Additionally, honeypots serve as an early warning system for detecting unauthorized access attempts.