SNMP is an acronym that stands for “Simple Network Management Protocol”, which is one of the most widely-used online communication protocols. Created in the 1980’s, SNMP allows network admins to send messages to the various devices that are connected to their systems and gather valuable data.
What is an SNMP Trap?
A simple network management protocol (SNMP) trap is a form of alert message, which is sent by any SNMP-enabled device to a central terminal, called the SNMP manager.
These alert messages are unique, since they can be initiated by the SNMP device itself, without a request being made by a human being, or an event being triggered by the SNMP manager.
SNMP devices are used to gather information about the performance of communication systems, including routers, modems, bluetooth devices, smartphones, and more.
What are the advantages of using SNMP traps?
The greatest advantage associated with using SNMP in networking is that it is a completely open protocol, meaning the language isn’t limited to a specific brand or device. As long as the user understands SNMP, they can access and obtain the information needed.
With SNMP protocol, businesses, IT companies, and any interested individuals can gain crucial information about their systems that isn’t always available via other means.
Additionally, an SNMP trap makes it easier to monitor key information, making it possible for business owners and others to identify trends and make better-informed decisions regarding their systems.
What are the disadvantages of using SNMP traps?
Like any technological solution, SNMP protocol isn’t flawless. It does come with its own drawbacks, which have become a pressing point of concern for IT professionals and business owners who depend on the accurate, timely, and comprehensive collection of data.
Some of the most common hindrances associated with SNMP traps include:
Scalability is a major concern when it comes to investing in SNMP network management. Because SNMP devices are limited in the amount of data they can collect and transmit, they aren’t ideal for handling high volumes of information.
For this reason, SNMP protocol is best used to gain a broad understanding of how an entire system is operating, as opposed to gathering in-depth information about a particular performance issue.
Unfortunately, the fact that SNMP protocol is an open language is both a blessing and a curse. While it is helpful in the sense that anyone can learn and use it on a range of devices, its open nature also means that hackers can use the protocol to gain entry into your systems.
Of course, these efforts can be thwarted with proper firewall software. But the concern exists nonetheless. And since SNMP devices can be used to not only monitor system performance, but also control it, there is also a potential for hackers to alter or interrupt functions, as well as steal or manipulate data.
While SNMP protocol is an open form of language, the way in which this language is supported can sometimes still be limiting. This is because depending on which type of SNMP devices you invest in, they may not work cohesively with third party systems or SNMP devices provided by other vendors, making it more difficult to connect SNMP devices to analytic tools and other vital systems.
What makes Indeni different?
Indeni is a network automation software that integrates with existing tools for network monitoring, configuration management, email and ticketing systems.
Unlike SNMP network management, Indeni gathers in-depth, device specific information about a performance and configuration issues, making it easier and less time consuming to identify errors and address concerns.
Furthermore, Indeni can be used with SNMP protocol to compliment the management processes a business already has in place. There’s no need to replace your current systems or reinvent the wheel. Simply add Indeni to your current strategy to enhance efficiency and visibility.
Indeni also helps businesses overcome the issue of human error, configuring your systems in a way that is consistent and accurate across all devices. This is a major factor, especially when you consider that 40 percent of network failures are the result of user mistakes.
Lastly, businesses and other organizations are required by law to ensure that their network systems are compliant with government policies. If proper procedures aren’t followed, it can result in extremely detrimental legal penalties. Not to mention that when networks aren’t meeting security policies, the data contained within them becomes vulnerable, putting businesses at an increased risk for data leaks and cyber attacks.
With an automated network software like Indeni, however, your networks can be consistently and meticulously monitored to ensure they are meeting all expectations, without the need for human interaction.
Plus, did we mention that the total cost savings associated with network automation range from 26 percent to 66 percent overall?
When you combine these benefits, it becomes clear that an automated network management system like Indeni is the best-fitting option for companies that want to reduce the amount of manual work and decision making they must participate in as part of maintaining their network systems.
Are you ready to improve your network performance with Indeni?
Download our software today and enjoy a free 14-day trial.
You can also take the free Indeni Knowledge Language Training course here to become more familiar with our software and its various functions.