HP StorageWorks 2/64 HP StorageWorks Fabric OS 5.x MIB Reference Guide (AA-RVH - Page 29

1 Understanding HP SNMP The Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) is an industry-standard method for monitoring and managing network devices. This protocol promotes interoperability, as SNMP-capable systems must adhere to a common set of framework and language rules. Understanding the components of SNMP makes it possible to use third-party tools to view, browse, and manipulate HP switch variables (MIBs) remotely, as well as to set up an enterprise-level management process. Every HP StorageWorks switch or director supports SNMP. This chapter discusses the following: • Understanding SNMP basics next • Loading HP MIBs, page 32 Understanding SNMP basics Every HP StorageWorks switch carries an agent and management information base (MIB), as illustrated in Figure 1. The agent accesses information about a device and makes it available to an SNMP network management station. Management SNMP Agent MIB Station Figure 1 SNMP structure When active, the management station can get information or set information when it queries an agent. SNMP commands, such as get, set, getnext, setnext, and getresponse are sent from the management station, and the agent replies once the value is obtained or modified (see Figure 2). Agents use variables to report such data as the number of bytes and packets in and out of the device, or the number of broadcast messages sent and received. These variables are also known as managed objects. All managed objects are contained in the MIB. Management Station get, getnext, set reply Agent Figure 2 SNMP query The management station can also receive traps (unsolicited messages from the switch agent) if an unusual event occurs. See Figure 3 and "Understanding SNMP traps" on page 31 for more information. Management trap Station Agent Figure 3 SNMP trap The agent can receive queries from one or more management stations and can send traps to up to six management stations. Fabric OS 5.x MIB reference guide 29