SNMP Query to Windows NT Returns Same Value for NTS and NTW (163837)



The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Windows NT Workstation 3.51
  • Microsoft Windows NT Workstation 4.0
  • Microsoft Windows NT Server 3.51
  • Microsoft Windows NT Server 4.0

This article was previously published under Q163837

SYMPTOMS

When you use an SNMP utility to obtain the system type from a computer running Windows NT, the value returned is the same for both Windows NT Server and Windows NT Workstation. The system types appear to be identical.

Because Windows NT workstations and servers have different capabilities, it is necessary to differentiate between these versions of Windows NT, especially when managing a large network. In addition, it is necessary to differentiate between Windows NT Servers and Domain Controllers, since they also have different roles in the domain model.

CAUSE

The SysObjectID field (1.3.6.1.4.1.311.1.1.3.1) returned by the computer running Windows NT is the same if the computer is running Windows NT Server or Windows NT Workstation.

RESOLUTION

A change was made in Windows NT 4.0 Service Pack 2 (SP2) and Windows NT 3.51 post-SP5 to the SNMP components so that the different system types are now reported as follows:

1.3.6.1.4.1.311.1.1.3.1.1 for Windows NT Workstation
1.3.6.1.4.1.311.1.1.3.1.2 for Windows NT Servers
1.3.6.1.4.1.311.1.1.3.1.3 for Windows NT Domain Controllers

This enables the user of the SNMP utility to more precisely identify the type of Windows NT system.

STATUS

Microsoft has confirmed this to be a problem in Microsoft Windows NT version 4.0. This problem was corrected in the latest Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 U.S. Service Pack. For information on obtaining the service pack, query on the following word in the Microsoft Knowledge Base (without the spaces):

S E R V P A C K

Microsoft has confirmed this to be a problem in Windows NT version 3.51. A supported fix is now available, but is not fully regression-tested and should be applied only to systems experiencing this specific problem. Unless you are severely impacted by this specific problem, Microsoft recommends that you wait for the next Service Pack that contains this fix. Contact Microsoft Product Support Services for more information.

Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:8/9/2001
Keywords:kbbug kbnetwork kbSNMP KB163837