Network configuration management: What is it and how does it work?

What is network configuration management?

Network configuration management is the process of overseeing and maintaining the configurations of network devices — like routers and switches — to keep them running smoothly and securely. It covers everything from network discovery and inventory maintenance to configuration backup, tracking default settings and changes, managing compliance, and troubleshooting.

A network configuration management tool, or network configuration manager, simplifies this complex work, making it easier to ensure every network device is set up consistently and securely. It tracks all device settings and flags unexpected configuration changes. It also allows you to update several network devices at once — in both on-premise and cloud computing environments.

Network configuration management software also saves time and stress by maintaining backups and giving you a clear view of network performance. It’s built to handle a lot of complexity, making your network infrastructure more efficient and reducing the workload for admins.

Network configuration management functions

Network configuration management goes way beyond documenting device settings. It’s a full-scale process with multiple functions that work together to keep your network healthy and reliable. Here’s a breakdown of the core functions.

1. Network device discovery

The first step in managing your network configuration is knowing what devices you have. A network configuration manager automates device discovery, identifying all network devices and bringing them into the configuration system. This process gives you a clear view of your assets and keeps everything accounted for.

2. Configuration backup

Backing up configuration files is essential for quick recovery during a crisis — like a network issue caused by a configuration change. Backups also come in handy when replacing a failed device — having the latest configuration copy lets you get the replacement device up and running fast. A network configuration manager automates this by regularly pulling device configuration settings and saving them.

3. Configuration change management

Network configuration management also plays an important role in tracking and managing changes. Every time someone makes a change in device configurations — whether intentional or accidental — NCM tools log that change. This feature provides an audit trail, improves accountability, and helps prevent unauthorized or accidental modifications from causing problems.

4. Executing complex network operations

Handling complex network operations may be overwhelming, but a network configuration management system makes it easier. It automates repetitive tasks like firmware updates, configuration deployments, and bulk changes across multiple devices. Instead of updating each device manually, you can push updates across the whole network, reducing manual effort and the potential for human error.

5. Network compliance with industry standards

Compliance with industry standards is another part of network configuration management. Many industries have strict network security requirements, and non-compliance may lead to costly fines. A network configuration manager lets you define standard practices and audit policies to ensure compliance. Let’s look at a few examples of compliance requirements.

CIS Cisco ASA policy

NCM tools can automatically check if your network devices meet the Center for Internet Security (CIS) benchmarks for Cisco ASA devices.

PCI compliance

If your organization deals with credit card data, compliance with the Payment Card Industry (PCI) is a must. NCM tools help ensure that configurations meet PCI standards to protect customer information.

SOX compliance

Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance requires strong controls over financial data. Network configuration management helps ensure that the necessary network controls are in place.

HIPAA compliance

Healthcare organizations must protect patient data. Network configuration management tools support Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) compliance by securing sensitive information and ensuring network integrity.

Progression of configuration management

Network configuration management has come a long way from its early days. Managing configurations used to be a manual process — network admins had to log in to each device to make changes. This work was time-consuming and often led to configuration errors.

As networks grew in size and complexity, network automation became necessary. Tools were created to help admins track device configurations and automate everyday tasks, and the first centralized network configuration management systems emerged. They simplified oversight, automated network backups, and made policy compliance easier to ensure.

Today’s network configuration management tools are even more sophisticated, with real-time monitoring, AI-driven insights, and integration with other network management systems.

Benefits of using network configuration management

The benefits of using network configuration management are clear, and they extend across many aspects of network operations:

• Reduced downtime. With regular configuration backups and automated rollback options, a network admin can quickly restore services if something goes wrong, minimizing downtime.
• Enhanced network security. By ensuring that network configurations comply with security policies and industry standards, NCM tools reduce vulnerabilities and help protect the network environment from cyber threats.
• Improved efficiency. Automating tasks like backups, change tracking, and compliance checks saves time and allows network admins to focus on more strategic initiatives.
• Better network change management. Keeping track of who made configuration changes and when provides improved visibility and control. It helps reduce the risk of configuration errors and unauthorized changes that could compromise the network.
• Simplified troubleshooting. When issues arise, having a complete history of device configuration changes makes it much easier to pinpoint the root cause and quickly take corrective action.

How to choose network configuration tools

To choose the right network configuration manager, you’ll have to take a close look at your organization’s needs. Keep the following factors in mind:

1. Functionality. Look for key features like backup, change management, compliance checks, and automation of complex tasks.
2. Ease of use. A user-friendly interface is important. You’ll want to be able to manage all the devices on your network with minimal hassle.
3. Compatibility. The NCM tool should support various devices and software from multiple vendors, ensuring compatibility.
4. Scalability. Your network may grow, so pick an NCM system that will scale with your organization without frequent upgrades.
5. Security. To keep your network configurations safe, prioritize security features like role-based access control, encryption, and compliance reporting.
6. Integration. Check if the system integrates well with other network monitoring tools. That will save time and give you a unified view of your network.
7. Cost. Finally, evaluate the pricing model. Some tools have a high upfront cost, while others charge based on the number of devices. Choose a solution that fits your budget and offers good value for your organization’s needs.