Which protocol is commonly used for server management and monitoring?

The correct answer is SNMP, which stands for Simple Network Management Protocol. This protocol is specifically designed for network management and monitoring. It enables administrators to monitor network devices such as routers, switches, servers, and printers. By using SNMP, network management systems can collect data regarding device performance and health, such as CPU load, memory usage, and network traffic statistics. It uses a model based on a client-server (or agent-manager) architecture, allowing for real-time monitoring and alerts of network conditions.

In a server management context, SNMP is particularly valuable because it allows for the centralized management of devices across a network, making it easier for IT professionals to ensure that all systems are operating optimally and to quickly respond to issues as they arise. This capability is essential for maintaining uptime and performance in a server environment.

Other protocols like HTTP, FTP, and SSH serve different purposes; while HTTP is primarily used for transferring web pages, FTP is meant for file transfers, and SSH is for secure remote administration. These protocols do not provide the specialized functionalities necessary for monitoring and managing server health and performance in the same way that SNMP does.