In recent years, some of the biggest names in networking—Cisco, VMware, Broadcom, EMC, and others—have signaled a shift in direction, focusing on AI-driven solutions and advanced analytics over traditional Network Configuration Management (NCM). At first glance, this pivot toward AI may seem exciting, but it comes at a cost: the resources that once supported NCM solutions are dwindling, leaving existing NCM customers feeling stranded.
For those managing complex networks in the real world, this isn’t just a minor inconvenience—it’s a critical gap that puts essential infrastructure at risk. NCM solutions are the bedrock of consistent, compliant, and secure network management. However, as vendors chase trendy tech initiatives, NCM no longer seems to fit their vision. Customers are left to fend for themselves, managing networks with tools that are becoming increasingly outdated, unsupported, and, frankly, abandoned.
So, why are these vendors pivoting away from NCM, and what does this mean for your network's future?
The AI Hype Cycle: Distracting from the Realities of NCM
Big tech companies are pouring enormous resources into AI. While AI and machine learning hold tremendous potential for automating tasks and enhancing data analytics, they’re not a cure-all. This pivot toward AI-driven “self-healing” networks may sound futuristic, but it glosses over the gritty reality that networks still need robust, reliable configuration management. Network configuration issues don’t just disappear with AI; they require hands-on tools that maintain device settings, compliance, and security.
The irony? As companies chase AI, they’re leaving NCM—which keeps the wheels turning in the here and now—behind. AI might make headlines, but for most businesses, it’s not a viable replacement for configuration management. If your network infrastructure can’t rely on up-to-date, well-managed configurations, no amount of AI can compensate.
The Risks of Neglecting NCM
With this shift in focus, there’s a significant risk to organizations that depend on NCM for day-to-day operations and long-term compliance. Here’s what happens when traditional NCM is deprioritized:
Increased Downtime: Without reliable NCM, routine errors can lead to extended downtime. Network issues that could have been prevented with proper configuration oversight instead spiral out of control, costing time, money, and reputation.
Compliance Gaps: Many industries require strict adherence to network compliance standards. Abandoned NCM products make it hard to ensure compliance, increasing the risk of non-compliance fines and regulatory breaches.
Security Vulnerabilities: Unsupported NCM tools are more likely to have unpatched vulnerabilities. A neglected NCM tool can become a backdoor for cybercriminals, posing a threat to your entire network.
Higher Operational Costs: As NCM tools become obsolete, organizations are forced to allocate more resources to manually maintain network configurations—resources that could be used for growth or innovation instead.
Why Big Vendors Are Abandoning NCM
It’s not that Cisco or VMware don’t understand the importance of NCM; rather, they’re shifting their focus to higher-margin products and services. AI, IoT, and advanced analytics align more closely with their growth strategies. NCM, in comparison, doesn’t bring the same glitzy opportunities for revenue and brand recognition. But while these tech giants chase the next big thing, they’re leaving behind the essential day-to-day tools that customers rely on.
This leaves businesses in a bind. NCM may not be the flashiest part of network management, but it’s foundational. Without it, network infrastructure becomes fragile, making it harder to deliver reliable services to customers.
rConfig: Filling the Void with a Pragmatic, Vendor-Agnostic Approach
At rConfig, we’re taking a different approach. Instead of chasing trends, we’re doubling down on the fundamentals of NCM, making sure our solutions stay relevant to your real-world needs. We understand that dependable NCM is crucial for organizations that need reliable network infrastructure day in and day out. Unlike the big players, we’re not distracted by shifting corporate priorities. Our focus is singular: delivering high-quality, agile NCM solutions that work across vendors.
Here’s how rConfig is making a difference:
Vendor-Agnostic Solutions: Our NCM tools work with any network infrastructure, ensuring compatibility and ease of use regardless of your setup. You’re not locked into a single ecosystem; instead, you’re free to manage your network on your terms.
Ongoing Support and Updates: We’re committed to keeping our NCM tools current, agile, and responsive to the evolving needs of our customers. That means regular updates, new features, and support when you need it.
Security and Compliance: rConfig’s solutions are built with security and compliance in mind. Our platform helps you manage network configurations while staying on top of compliance requirements, keeping your network secure and your organization out of regulatory trouble.
Scalability and Flexibility: Whether you’re managing a small network or a sprawling infrastructure, rConfig scales with you. We provide the flexibility to grow without being tied down by rigid vendor constraints.
Real-World Solutions for Real-World Problems: We’re not interested in following fads or selling dreams. Instead, we’re focused on providing the tools you need to keep your network running smoothly, day after day.
The Future of NCM: Is Vendor Agnosticism the Way Forward?
As larger vendors continue to pursue AI-centric strategies, businesses are left to wonder: who will look after their essential network tools? That’s where vendor-agnostic solutions like rConfig come in. We believe that no organization should be left vulnerable simply because they aren’t “big” enough to make it onto a vendor’s radar. Our platform’s vendor-agnostic nature ensures that your network management remains independent, adaptable, and resilient.
Vendor agnosticism is not just about avoiding vendor lock-in; it’s about empowering customers to choose the best tools for their unique environments. The goal of network management should be to enable seamless, secure, and compliant networks, regardless of vendor allegiance. This is the philosophy that guides rConfig as we continue to evolve and support our customers.
Conclusion: NCM Isn’t Going Anywhere—And Neither Are We
Despite the shift toward AI and other emerging technologies, NCM remains an indispensable part of network management. In fact, as networks grow more complex, the need for effective, agile NCM tools becomes even more critical.
At rConfig, we’re committed to standing by our customers as big vendors turn away from NCM. We’ll continue to fill this void, offering solutions that are robust, secure, and vendor-agnostic—designed for today’s challenges and tomorrow’s needs. Because no matter what the tech landscape looks like, dependable NCM will always be essential.