Monitoring systems are the standard way to make sure your infrastructure is running. A monitoring system queries the servers, routers, switches and other devices, asks them how they are doing, and generates alerts (which you can receive via email, text, or voice call.) This is the computer equivalent to a successful game of telephone.

SNMP provides a standard message protocol that the monitoring system, routers, switches, servers, storage arrays, UPS devices, etc., can all speak.

It was developed as a one-size-fits-all solution to the very challenging problem of remote network monitoring and management. SNMP was first conceived over 25 years ago and has changed over time with several versions, the most current being SNMPv3. 

As a protocol, SNMP mainly collects data about devices, such as CPU load, memory usage, status, and interface statistics. SNMP is supported on practically all network equipment like switches, routers, and load balancers, but also on most server operating systems, some storage devices, and even some server application software.

Of course, there are different versions of SNMP, different security constraints, and not every manufacturer implements the protocol in the same way.

As widespread as the protocol may be, complexity can get in the way for modern system monitoring. Tracking SNMP version and manufacturer-specific differences can become overwhelming for those trying to roll their own solution.