The Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) is a network management standard widely used in TCP/IP networks.

SNMP provides a method of managing network hosts such as workstation or server computers, routers, bridges, and hubs from a centrally-located computer running network management software. SNMP performs management services by using a distributed architecture of management systems and agents.

Because network management is critical for both auditing and resource management, SNMP can be used to:

  • Configure remote devices. Configuration information can be sent to each networked host from the management system.

  • Monitor network performance. You can track the speed of processing and network throughput and collect information about the success of data transmissions.

  • Detect network faults or inappropriate access. You can configure trigger alarms on network devices when certain events occur. When an alarm is triggered, the device forwards an event message to the management system. Common types of alarms include a device being shut down and restarted, a link failure being detected on a router, and inappropriate access.

  • Audit network usage. You can monitor both overall network usage to identify user or group access and types of usage for network devices and services.

SNMP Service

The Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) service is an optional feature that can be installed after the TCP/IP protocol has been successfully configured.

The SNMP service provides an SNMP agent that allows remote, centralized management of computers running:

  • Windows Vista®

  • Windows Server® 2008

  • Microsoft® Windows® XP

  • Microsoft Windows 2000

  • Windows Server 2003 operating systems

The SNMP agent also allows management of the following services:

  • Windows XP or the Windows Server 2003 operating systems and Microsoft Windows 2000-based WINS

  • Windows XP or the Windows Server 2003 operating systems and Windows 2000-based DHCP

  • Windows XP or the Windows Server 2003 operating systems and Windows 2000-based Internet Information Services (IIS)

  • LAN Manager

To access the information that the SNMP agent service provides, you need at least one SNMP management system software application. The SNMP service supports, but does not currently include, SNMP management software. SNMP management software must be running on the host, which acts as the management system.


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