SNMP vs Streaming Telemetry: Modern Network Monitoring
Most network monitoring still relies on SNMP polling every few minutes. Modern devices also support streaming telemetry, which pushes data continuously. Both have a place.
SNMP polling
- Supported by almost every network device, old and new.
- The monitoring server asks each device for counters at an interval — typically one to five minutes.
- Short spikes between polls are invisible.
- Polling many counters on large devices can load the device CPU.
Streaming telemetry
- The device pushes data to collectors at intervals of seconds, or when values change.
- Uses structured data models (YANG) over protocols such as gNMI.
- Reveals micro-bursts, fast-changing queues and short outages.
- Needs newer devices and a collection pipeline that can store high-volume data.
A practical mix
- Use SNMP for broad coverage — every device, basic health and interfaces.
- Add streaming telemetry for core, data-centre and high-value links.
- Add flow data for who-talks-to-whom.
- Bring it all into one view with consistent naming and alerting.
We design monitoring stacks that combine all three. Learn about our NMS service or request a monitoring review.
