What protocol uses agents to collect and store information about managed devices and their operation?

The correct choice is SNMP, which stands for Simple Network Management Protocol. SNMP is designed to manage devices on IP networks by allowing administrators to monitor and control network devices such as servers, routers, switches, and printers.

SNMP employs a client/server architecture that includes agents and a network management system (NMS). The agents run on the managed devices and are responsible for collecting and storing information about the device's operational state and performance metrics. This information is typically stored in a Management Information Base (MIB), and the NMS can query the agents to retrieve data, set configuration parameters, and receive alerts for specific events or traps.

Due to its versatility and widespread support, SNMP has become the standard for network management. It allows for efficient monitoring and management of complex network environments, making it easier for network administrators to ensure devices are functioning correctly and to troubleshoot issues as they arise.

LLDP (Link Layer Discovery Protocol) is primarily used for discovering neighboring devices on a local network. RIP (Routing Information Protocol) and OSPF (Open Shortest Path First) are routing protocols focused on the exchange of routing information between routers but do not provide capabilities for monitoring and managing network devices in the way that SNMP does.