About WBEM

Web-Based Enterprise Management (WBEM) is an industry-wide initiative that includes standards for web-based management of systems, networks, and devices on multiple platforms. This standardization enables system administrators to manage desktops, devices, and networks.

WBEM is designed to be compatible with all major existing management protocols, including Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP), Distributed Management Interface (DMI), and Common Management Information Protocol (CMIP).

WBEM encompasses the following standards:

• Common Information Model (CIM) - Information model for describing managed resources.

• Managed Object Format (MOF) - Language for defining CIM classes and instances.

• eXtensible Markup Language (XML) - Markup language for describing managed resources on the web.

The Distributed Management Task Force (DMTF), a group representing corporations in the computer and telecommunications industries, is leading the effort to develop management standards. The goal of the DMTF is to develop an integrated approach to managing networks across platforms and protocols, resulting in cost-effective products that interoperate as flawlessly as possible. For information about DMTF initiatives and outcomes, see the DMTF web site at www.dmtf.org.