NETWORK MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE LIBRARY ALLOWING A SENDING AND RETRIEVAL OF MULTIPLE SNMP OBJECTS

A method is provided for providing multiple variable retrievals and setting within one SnmpRequest. The method forms packet data units with object identifiers (OIDs). The OIDs are packet specific for a particular request in an object management system using SNMP (simple network management protocol) attributes, the object management system including a plurality of objects and procedures for accessing the objects. The object management system is accessible over a network and associated with a network-attached device. The method includes providing the object management system with a plurality of classes providing descriptions of things that can be accessed. A SnmpSessions class establishing connection between the object management system and connected devices is also provided. Call back arguments are received at the network management station from the device. A SNMP application programmer interface (API) provides elements needed for connection. A SnmpRequest class is extended for extending the API to allow a plurality of objects to be sent or requested in a single packet data unit (PDU). The SNMP packet data unit (PDU) is formed comprised of one or more object identifiers (OIDs), the OIDs being packet specific for a particular request.A software JAVA based SNMP library system is also provided for use with a manager and connected devices. The system includes a plurality of classes providing descriptions of things that can be accessed. A SNMP application programmer interface (API) providing elements needed for connection is also provided. The system provides call-back arguments to be received at the manager from the devices. A SNMP packet data unit (PDU) comprised of one or more object identifiers (OIDs) is provided. The OIDs are packet specific for a particular request. The SnmpRequest class is provided for extending the API to allow a plurality of objects to be sent or requested in a PDU.