Network configuration management: an innovative, additional layer of network security - Storage Networking

With the increased number of cyber attacks and the overall complexity of enterprise networks today, IT professionals are challenged with the daunting task of protecting networks from known and unknown malicious activity. To combat network security issues, many organizations are deploying a layered security architecture that spans from the Internet to the desktop. The typical network security solutions companies deploy include firewalls, intrusion detection systems, anti-virus software, etc. Many organizations also utilize vulnerability assessments, penetration tests and other means to identify network vulnerabilities.

While traditional security solutions and services are being deployed to protect the network, devices continue to fall victim to attacks. As a result, many organizations are looking outside the "security application box" to other solutions that can more effectively secure, manage and maintain critical devices throughout the network. One particular application category IT professionals are turning to is Network Configuration Management.

Network configuration management solutions are specifically designed to automate the process of changing, securing and managing devices throughout the enterprise. Companies are turning to network configuration management solutions because there is a direct correlation between properly configured devices and network security. Whether configuration changes are introduced through malicious attacks, manual update errors, or network product defects, devices can become vulnerable and place your business at risk.

By leveraging a configuration management solution as part of your security strategy, organizations can arm IT professionals with device security and intrusion response functionality that is not found in traditional security solutions. Additionally, network configuration management solutions provide organizations with a disciplined, change management methodology that ensure IT professionals can only make changes that comply with the enterprise security policies.