snmptd probe reliability

[Anupama Purayannur]

Hi, 

We have a few questions regarding snmptd probe-

What happens if the snmptd probe hangs or becomes unresponsive? Will trap messages still be queued and processed once the probe is restored? As far as I know, the answer is no.  Are there any recommended best practices to ensure reliability of SNMP trap processing in such scenarios?

Thanks

Anu

[Derek Child]

Hi Anu,
SNMP traps are sent via UDP.  With all protocols that use UDP, there is a change for packet loss, whether caused by network issues, software issues, or whatever.  For the snmptd probe, if it is not responsive, it won't queue up trap messages for later processing.  They will be lost, just like other UDP messages.

As for best practices to ensure reliability, this falls into the realm of UIM Self-Monitoring.  I'd point you to the article that we have on this:
Best Practices for monitoring DX UIM - self-health monitoring

In this case, it may be best to monitor the snmptd log file with logmon or dirscan.  If the probe is hanging or throwing errors, you'd likely be able to receive notification with these probes.

Regards,
Derek

[Anupama Purayannur]

Thanks Derek.