Abstract: A system and apparatus for the management of elements (devices) in a broadband communications network which implement features of the DOCSIS and SCTE HMS specifications through an interface consisting of physical, electrical and logical protocol. As part of the system, a communications module (transponder) is used to enable the elements of the network to monitor, control, provision, alarm and communicate. Communication occurs over the broadband network media using DOCSIS protocol. The initiator of network management messages targeted at transponders, and the recipient of response messages from transponders, is a distantly located computer system running a network management software system. The network management system software uses standard SNMP and or HMS protocol for communication of messages to the managed device's transponder. The transponder also uses SNMP and HMS protocol to communicate messages to the network management software system.