What’s a management info base?

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Management information bases (MIBs) are collections of network objects managed with SNMP. MIBs can be related to specific network functions and extensions can be added. MIBs allow for logical use of network objects in executing commands and can be extended by major technology suppliers.

Management information bases are collections of various network objects that are managed with the use of a simple network management protocol or SNMP. The exact structure of the objects included in the management information base will depend on the configuration of the particular SNMP. However, additional extensions can allow new objects to be added outside the initial structure.

Both the initial management information base and any extensions can be related to specific functions within a network. Some MIBs may be related to the domain name system definition, while other extensions may be associated with network objects such as the Fiber Distributed Data Interface. Product developers use the management information foundations model when designing a new product or preparing an improved version of an existing product.

While the initial management information foundation is usually defined as a part of SNMP, extensions are generally set up as part of the basic management information foundation. Among technical people, the initial management information base is usually referred to as MIB-1, while MIB-II refers to the first extension. The numbering process helps not only to quickly identify the initial management information base, but also helps to identify the home connection of the network objects involved.

The underlying purpose of creating and using a management information base is to allow logical use of network objects in the execution of various commands. By using the MIB as the environment where specific objects reside, it is easier for the system to locate and use the objects. The end result is transparent execution of commands for the user and without delays.

It’s a fairly straightforward process to create and register new MIB extensions. Many major suppliers of communications technology and equipment regularly create extensions to their management information foundations that are unique to some of their signature products. Some of the companies that have created unique MIB extensions include IBM, Cisco, and Novell.




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