Which of the following best describes the purpose of SNMP? (Select the best answer.)
A.
to manage network devices
B.
to send email
C.
to create VPNs
D.
to transfer files
Explanation:
Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) is used to manage network devices. SNMP can be used to
remotely monitor and configure a wide variety of network devices, such as routers, switches, and network
printers. SNMP version 1 (SNMPv1) and SNMPv2 use community strings to provide authentication. However,
neither SNMPv1 nor SNMPv2 uses encryption? all data and community strings are sent in clear text. A
malicious user can sniff an SNMP community string and use it to access and modify network devices. SNMPv3
is an enhancement to the SNMP protocol that uses encryption to provide confidentiality, integrity, and
authentication.
SNMP is not used to send email. Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP) is used to send email. Post Office
Protocol 3 (POP3) and Internet Message Access Protocol 4 (IMAP4) are used to receive email.
SNMP is not used to create virtual private networks (VPNs). To create a VPN, you would typically use a
protocol that can encrypt the data on the virtual network, such as IP Security (IPSec). A VPN is often used
when it is necessary to connect two locations that are separated by a public network, such as the Internet.
SNMP is not used to transfer files. To transfer files between computers, you should use File Transfer Protocol
(FTP), Trivial FTP (TFTP), or Secure FTP (SFTP).Cisco: Simple Network Management Protocol: Versions of SNMP