Network management protocols help define the policies and procedures used to monitor, manage and maintain your computer network, and help communicate these needs across the network to ensure stable communication and optimal performance across the board.
Generally, network managers can use a management protocol to troubleshoot connections between host and client devices. Management protocols provide network managers with the host connection's status, availability, packet or data loss, and other related information about the health of the network connection.
The policies managed by management protocols can be applied to all devices on the network, including computers, switches, routers and even servers.
Two of the most common types of network management protocols includeSimple Network Management Protocol (SNMP)andInternet Control Message Protocol (ICMP).
- SNMP–Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP)is used to monitor and manage network devices. This TCP-based protocol allows administrators to view and modify endpoint information to alter behavior of devices across the network. SNMP relies on the use of agents to collect and send data to an overarching SMNP manager, which in turn queries agents and gets their responses.
- ICMP–Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP)is primarily used for diagnostic purposes. Managed devices on the network can use this protocol to send error messages, providing information regarding network connectivity issues between devices.
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Network management protocols play a crucial role in defining the policies and procedures used to ensure the smooth operation of a computer network. These protocols facilitate communication across the network, enabling stable and efficient performance.
One of the key functions of network management protocols is troubleshooting connections between host and client devices. By using these protocols, network managers can obtain valuable information about the status, availability, packet or data loss, and overall health of the network connection.
These management protocols allow administrators to apply policies to all devices on the network, including computers, switches, routers, and servers. This ensures consistent management and control over the entire network infrastructure.
Among the numerous network management protocols available, two of the most commonly used are Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) and Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP).
SNMP, also known as Simple Network Management Protocol, serves as a powerful tool for monitoring and managing network devices. It operates on the TCP/IP protocol suite, allowing administrators to view and modify endpoint information. Through SNMP, administrators can alter the behavior of devices across the network. The protocol relies on the use of agents that collect and send data to a central SNMP manager. The manager queries the agents and retrieves their responses, providing valuable insights into the network's overall performance.
On the other hand, ICMP, or Internet Control Message Protocol, is primarily used for diagnostic purposes. Managed devices on the network utilize ICMP to send error messages, which contain essential information regarding network connectivity issues between devices. These error messages assist network administrators in identifying and resolving network problems promptly.
In conclusion, network management protocols are essential tools for ensuring the effective operation and maintenance of computer networks. By utilizing protocols such as SNMP and ICMP, network administrators can monitor, troubleshoot, and manage network devices, resulting in stable communication and optimal performance across the network.
