Managing a network is more than just keeping devices running—it’s about ensuring configurations are secure and optimized while tracking every network asset efficiently. Configuration management and asset management serve different but complementary roles in network administration. Without a solution that unifies both, IT teams may struggle with inefficiencies, security risks, and compliance issues.
Configuration management: The backbone of a stable network
Configuration management is the process of tracking and managing configuration changes across all network devices. ManageEngine Network Configuration Manager simplifies this process by automating backups, tracking changes in real time, ensuring network compliance, and managing firmware vulnerabilities. It ensures that routers, switches, firewalls, and other network components maintain optimal settings to prevent security risks and outages.
Why configuration management is critical?
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Prevents configuration drift: Unauthorized or accidental changes can cause inconsistencies, leading to security vulnerabilities.
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Ensures compliance: Industry regulations like the PCI DSS, HIPAA, and SOX require strict configuration policies. A lack of compliance can result in fines or breaches.
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Enables quick disaster recovery: Automated configuration backups allow for rapid restoration or rollbacks in case of failures.
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Improves network visibility and accountability: Real-time change detection and audits help mark every configuration change that was made to the network devices by the admins and non-admins.
Microsoft reported that over 80% of ransomware attacks stem from common misconfigurations in software and devices. This highlights the critical need for effective configuration management—not just as a best practice, but as a necessity.
Asset management: Knowing what’s in your network
Asset management is the process of tracking and maintaining all the network devices and assets in your enterprise throughout their life cycles. ManageEngine Network Configuration Manager also streamlines asset management, keeping track of every network device, its life cycle, and ownership.
Why is asset management so critical?
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Avoids redundant purchases: IT budgets often get wasted on unnecessary network hardware.
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Improves network security: Unauthorized devices can create vulnerabilities if left untracked.
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Optimizes resource utilization: Visibility into device usage helps IT teams allocate resources effectively.
According to Flexera’s State of ITAM Report, 30% of IT budgets are wasted on unused or unnecessary assets. Without asset management, businesses risk overspending while increasing the risk of vulnerabilities.
Key differences of configuration management and asset management
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Configuration management |
Asset management |
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Focus |
Device configurations and settings |
Hardware inventory |
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Purpose |
Ensures operational stability and security |
Tracks asset life cycles and reduces costs |
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Data managed |
Configurations, changes, and compliance |
Ownership, purchase details, and usage |
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Primary benefit |
Prevents misconfigurations and enhances your network security posture |
Optimizes cost and prevents asset wastage |
How ManageEngine Network Configuration Manager bridges the gap
With networks becoming more complex, businesses need a centralized tool that can handle both configuration and asset management. ManageEngine Network Configuration Manager provides exactly that.
Key benefits of using Network Configuration Manager:
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Automated configuration backups: Ensure configurations are always recoverable in case of failures.
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Real-time change tracking: Detect and alert IT teams about unauthorized changes.
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Compliance auditing: Enforce configuration policies to meet industry regulations.
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Device inventory management: Maintain an up-to-date list of all network assets for better tracking and reporting.
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EOS and EOL reports: Identify EOS and EOL devices, and prevent device asset wastage.
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Multi-vendor support: Works across devices from Cisco, Juniper, Palo Alto, Fortinet, and more.
The need for a unified approach
Both configuration management and asset management are essential for maintaining a secure and efficient network. While configuration management ensures devices operate correctly, asset management prevents asset wastage and security blind spots.
With ManageEngine Network Configuration Manager, businesses can gain full control over their network configurations and assets, ensuring reliability, compliance, and security—all from a single interface.
Interested in learning more about this? Schedule a personalized demo with our product experts, or get started now by downloading our 30-day, free trial.
