SNMP Transport Requirements

SNMP can be implemented over two different transport layers: TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) and UDP (User Datagram Protocol). Each transport protocol has its own advantages and disadvantages.

UDP
SNMP was originally designed for UDP transport only. UDP is a connectionless protocol that does not support the robust error-recovery services of TCP. Delivery is not guaranteed, and messages are not necessarily delivered in the order they were sent.

Because UDP doesn't have the data recovery features of TCP, it consumes fewer network resources. UDP is well suited for repetitive, low-priority functions like alarm monitoring.

TCP
SNMP can also be transported via TCP, which has become increasingly popular. TCP offers robust error-recovery; delivery is guaranteed and messages are delivered in sequence.

Some modern SNMP managers only support SNMP over TCP.

So, which transport protocol should you choose? Quality SNMP equipment will support both protocols, giving you the greatest compatibility with other equipment and the greatest flexibility in designing your network management.