Introduction to SNMP & SYSLOG
Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) is an application–layer protocol defined by the Internet Architecture Board (IAB) for exchanging management information between network devices. It is a part of Transmission Control Protocol⁄Internet Protocol (TCP⁄IP) protocol suite.
SNMP is one of the widely accepted protocols to manage and monitor network elements. And agents have to be enabled and configured to communicate with the network management system.
Syslog is a widely used standard for message logging. It permits separation of the software that generates messages, the system that stores them, and the software that reports and analyzes them.
Comparison Table: SNMP vs Syslog
The difference between Syslog and SNMP is enlisted below :
S.No. | SNMP | SYSLOG |
| 1 | SNMP allows for remote monitoring of SNMP-Allowable device on network. | SYSLOG is a different protocol that can be used for exchanging log messages of varying degrees of severity to network device capable of receiving syslog messages. |
| 2 | SNMP is used to alert on critical actions, like the mentioned HSRP state changes. | SYSLOG is also collected, which allows me to dig deeper to figure out why the HSRP state change occurred. |
| 3 | SNMP works on Poll – Resource mechanism with SNMP Server polling the device for response on interface/ health /process. | SYSLOG works on PUSH mechanism on end device to send logging information. |
| 4 | SNMP is referred to get real time information. | SYSLOG is generally referred to acquire historical data. |
| 5 | End device configuration can be performed via SNMP set. E.g.: Reboot system | End device configuration cannot be performed via syslog set. |
| 6 | SNMP traps are shared in binary format. | Syslog events are shared in plain text. |
| 7 | Secure | Insecure |
| 8 | Active | Passive |
| 9 | Uses UDP port numbers 161 and 162. | Uses TCP/UDP port number 514 |
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Download the difference table here.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
I am here to share my knowledge and experience in the field of networking with the goal being – “The more you share, the more you learn.”
I am a biotechnologist by qualification and a Network Enthusiast by interest. I developed interest in networking being in the company of a passionate Network Professional, my husband.
I am a strong believer of the fact that “learning is a constant process of discovering yourself.”
– Rashmi Bhardwaj (Author/Editor)
