Monitoring Printer Hardware

IPNetwork Monitor enables you to test and track the performance metrics of network printers. You can choose which parameter to monitor using the integrated MIB browser, which presents all printer-supported variables, their current readings, and descriptions from the MIBs. Modern printers come in various sizes and connect with computer systems through numerous protocols, including wireless technologies. Network printers are deployed as independent, network-attached devices (unlike traditional printers which interface with a single computer, though access to their functionality can be shared over a network). The majority of network printers use SNMP, both to query device status and manage some of its features remotely. While 3D printers are not yet widespread (having not attained the status of readily available, consumer-friendly devices), they are capable of producing objects of diverse kinds, ranging from food items to artificial body parts and organ replacements. Originally, the most prevalent use of printers was generating hard copies of documents for mailing. With the rise of email and other methods of electronic communication, this application has significantly diminished and is now infrequent. Producing backup copies of documents remains a primary function of printers; they also serve as copiers, facilitating the efficient reproduction of documents, books, and other printed materials quickly and in limited quantities.

Common Printer Monitoring Scenarios

In addition to collecting standard system health information and performing fundamental availability checks, monitoring printers can be utilized for:
  • monitoring supply levels (e.g., paper, toner) and notifying responsible personnel to replenish them
  • verifying firmware status (such as identifying outdated versions) and alerting administrators to perform updates
  • identifying unusual printer activity and notifying relevant security staff

List of MIBs Employed for Monitoring Printer Hardware

Below is a list of some MIBs used for monitoring printer devices:
  • PARALLEL-MIB MIB module for parallel-printer-like devices.
  • PRINTER-MIB MIB module for printer administration.
  • IANA-PRINTER-MIB IANA core SNMP definitions for printers.
  • HP-LASERJET-COMMON-MIB Hewlett-Packard definitions for LaserJet series hardware.
Start monitoring your printers via SNMP with a free 30-day trial of IPNetwork Monitor today. IPNetwork’s SNMP monitor allows you to track network performance, analyze network activity, identify network problems, and detect unauthorized access. IPNetwork’s SNMP monitor can connect and interact with any SNMP-capable device. [interfaces_screenshot]

IPNetwork Monitor 1.0 build 141 of March 11, 2024. File size: 112MB