Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) is a protocol used for monitoring and managing devices on IP networks. It enables network administrators to collect and organize information about managed devices and modify device behavior to improve performance.
SNMP operates at the application layer and uses a client-server model, where the managed devices (agents) communicate with the management system (manager).
SNMP consists of three key components: the SNMP manager, SNMP agents, and Management Information Base (MIB). The manager queries agents for data using GET requests, while agents respond with requested information or send unsolicited alerts (traps) to report issues.
SNMP supports three versions: SNMPv1, SNMPv2, and SNMPv3, with SNMPv3 offering enhanced security features, such as authentication and encryption. Commonly used in network management systems (NMS), SNMP helps ensure network reliability and efficiency by enabling real-time monitoring and proactive management of network resources.