The Message Authentication Code (MAC) is a widely used technique for performing message authentication, and one MAC algorithm has emerged as the Internet standard for a wide variety of applications: Hash-Based Message Authentication Code (HMAC).

Based on your reading and understanding of the topic, answer the following:

• Discuss the difference between HMAC and MAC and why it is deemed as the most secure method for the Internet usage.

SNMP has evolved over time into the SNMPv2 and then lastly with the SNMPv3. SNMP provided a minimal but powerful set of facilities for monitoring and control of network elements using a straightforward Structure of Management Information (SMI), MIB, and protocol. But as there are more requirements for monitoring and as networks became more complex, new versions of the SNMP are released.

• Compare and contrast the three versions of SNMP, explaining the deficiencies which the preceding version had, which paved the way for the newer version to be created.
• Explain in detail two or more strengths of each new version and what it has been brought to today's marketplace.
• Discuss in detail two or more advances of SNMPv3 in its security engine and any new MIBs.