Network configuration management is the process of organizing and maintaining information about all of the components in a computer network. When a network needs repair, modification, expansion or upgrading, the administrator refers to the network configuration management database to determine the best course of action. Database usually contains the locations and IP address or network address of all hardware devices, as well as information about the default settings, programs, versions and updates installed in network computers.
The primary feature of network configuration management is its ability to replace the functions of a network device in the event of failure. Different network devices save configurations in different formats, and finding configuration information can be difficult when a particular device has to be replaced. With a network configuration management system in place, configuration information will be stored in a centrally located server, where device configurations can be easily downloaded.
Network admins need to account for every network configuration change, approved or not. Network Configuration Management alerts on any changes it detects each time it scans its configuration database. Your scans can be scheduled to run automatically to shorten the window between when a change is made and when an alert is issued.
Network configuration can reduce downtime by allowing system administrators to rapidly identify changes being made in the network. It also helps ensure that software versions and hardware components are up to date and comply with licensing agreements. Visibility and accountability is also improved, as system personnel have an easy way to determine the identity of components and software operating on the network.