RFC 1445 (rfc1445) - Page 2 of 47
Administrative Model for version 2 of the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMPv2)
Alternative Format: Original Text Document
RFC 1445 Administrative Model for SNMPv2 April 1993
1. Introduction
A network management system contains: several (potentially
many) nodes, each with a processing entity, termed an agent,
which has access to management instrumentation; at least one
management station; and, a management protocol, used to convey
management information between the agents and management
stations. Operations of the protocol are carried out under an
administrative framework which defines both authentication and
authorization policies.
Network management stations execute management applications
which monitor and control network elements. Network elements
are devices such as hosts, routers, terminal servers, etc.,
which are monitored and controlled through access to their
management information.
It is the purpose of this document, the Administrative Model
for SNMPv2, to define how the administrative framework is
applied to realize effective network management in a variety
of configurations and environments.
The model described here entails the use of distinct
identities for peers that exchange SNMPv2 messages. Thus, it
represents a departure from the community-based administrative
model of the original SNMP [1]. By unambiguously identifying
the source and intended recipient of each SNMPv2 message, this
new strategy improves upon the historical community scheme
both by supporting a more convenient access control model and
allowing for effective use of asymmetric (public key) security
protocols in the future.
1.1. A Note on Terminology
For the purpose of exposition, the original Internet-standard
Network Management Framework, as described in RFCs 1155, 1157,
and 1212, is termed the SNMP version 1 framework (SNMPv1).
The current framework is termed the SNMP version 2 framework
(SNMPv2).
Galvin & McCloghrie