5 best configuration change management tools in 2025

The 5 best configuration change management tools in 2025

1. ManageEngine Network Configuration Manager (NCM)

ManageEngine Network Configuration Manager offers the most comprehensive approach to configuration change management. It captures, tracks, and validates every configuration change in real time, ensuring that no unauthorized or accidental edits go unnoticed.

With programmable configlets, administrators can apply bulk changes or instantly roll back faulty configurations, reducing downtime and manual intervention. Scheduled change tasks, automated backups, and detailed change comparison reports ensure every modification is auditable, predictable, and fully under control, making Network Configuration Manager the most reliable choice for enterprises seeking complete configuration change governance.

2. SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager

SolarWinds NCM provides solid configuration tracking and versioning capabilities, with the ability to deploy bulk changes and restore previous versions when needed. It performs well for organizations already invested in the SolarWinds ecosystem.

However, its CCM functionality is often tightly coupled with network monitoring tools, meaning that teams may need multiple modules for complete visibility and control. For organizations seeking a fully focused CCM solution, this can add complexity.

3. Cisco Prime Infrastructure

Cisco Prime Infrastructure is effective for legacy Cisco networks, providing configuration templates, version tracking, and automated change deployment.

Its main limitation is that it is being phased out, and it primarily supports Cisco devices, offering limited flexibility for mixed-vendor networks. Enterprises relying on modern, multi-vendor environments may find its capabilities restrictive.

4. Net LineDancer (NetLD)

Net LineDancer offers essential CCM functions, including configuration capture, version comparison, and rollback. Its lightweight design makes it suitable for smaller environments or MSPs.

However, NetLD lacks some of the automation depth and multi-vendor scale, making it less suitable for large enterprises with complex networks that require centralised, end-to-end configuration control.

5. rConfig

rConfig is an open-source solution that provides automated backups, scheduled command execution, and configuration version tracking. It is flexible and customizable for teams willing to manage it themselves.

The trade-off is that rConfig requires more manual effort and technical setup, and it lacks some of the enterprise-ready automation and reporting features found in commercial CCM tools like ManageEngine Network Configuration Manager.

How to choose the right configuration change management tool

Choosing the right CCM tool isn't just about features, it's about how well it fits your network and supports your long-term goals. Before making a decision, consider your environment, scale, and operational needs:

• Device diversity: Ensure the tool supports all major vendors and firmware types across your network for consistent configuration control.
• Audit readiness: If your organization faces strict audits, choose a solution that tracks every change and provides clear, actionable reports.
• Automation capabilities: Look for features that enable scheduled backups, bulk configuration updates, and rollback of faulty changes.
• Scalability: Confirm the tool can handle large deployments and simultaneous updates without compromising stability.
• Future-proofing: Select solutions with ongoing development and clear roadmaps to ensure continued support as older tools, like Cisco Prime, are phased out.

Why network admins prefer ManageEngine Network Configuration Management for configuration change management

Network admins choose ManageEngine Network Configuration Manager because it makes configuration change management effortless, predictable, and transparent. Instead of reacting to configuration errors after they cause downtime, admins can see, control, and automate every change before it impacts the network.

The platform continuously monitors device configurations and highlights exactly what changed, who made the change, and when it happened. This real-time visibility helps teams prevent configuration drift and maintain network stability without guesswork.

Its configlets (predefined, reusable scripts) allow admins to push consistent updates across hundreds of devices in seconds. And if something goes wrong, instant rollback restores the previous version immediately, eliminating long troubleshooting cycles.

Network Configuration Manager also supports a wide range of vendors, making it a single console for multi-device environments. Whether it’s a small change on a switch or a major update across routers and firewalls, admins can execute, review, and verify every configuration operation with full control.

In short, admins prefer ManageEngine Network Configuration Manager because it turns configuration change management from a risky, manual process into a streamlined, reliable, and easily automated workflow, keeping networks stable and teams confident.

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