Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

Forward Networks VS SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager

Compare Forward Networks VS SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager and see what are their differences

Forward Networks logo Forward Networks

Network Automation

SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager logo SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager

SolarWinds is a leading provider of powerful and affordable IT infrastructure management software. Make IT look easy.
  • Forward Networks Landing page
    Landing page //
    2022-11-28
  • SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager Landing page
    Landing page //
    2022-10-23

Forward Networks features and specs

  • Network Visibility
    Forward Networks provides comprehensive visibility into network behavior and configurations, helping organizations understand their network's current state and identify any potential issues.
  • Automated Network Verification
    The platform automates the process of network verification, ensuring that configurations comply with policies and that the network behaves as expected, reducing manual effort and error.
  • Troubleshooting Efficiency
    With detailed path analysis and device information, Forward Networks enhances troubleshooting processes, allowing for faster identification and resolution of network problems.
  • Scalability
    Forward Networks is designed to scale with the needs of large, complex networks, making it suitable for enterprise-level implementations.

Possible disadvantages of Forward Networks

  • Cost
    The solution might be considered expensive for smaller organizations or those with limited IT budgets.
  • Complexity
    Deploying and fully utilizing Forward Networks may require a significant investment of time and expertise in understanding its features and capabilities.
  • Integration
    Integrating Forward Networks with existing network management and monitoring tools can be challenging, potentially requiring custom development.
  • Resource Intensive
    Running detailed network analyses can require significant computational resources, which might impact performance or necessitate additional infrastructure.

SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager features and specs

  • Automated Configuration Backup
    SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager (NCM) automatically backs up device configurations, reducing the risk of data loss and ensuring easy recovery in case of misconfigurations or device failures.
  • Compliance Management
    NCM includes compliance management tools that help organizations adhere to industry standards and internal policies by monitoring and reporting on configuration compliance across the network infrastructure.
  • Change Management
    The software provides a robust change management system that logs all changes made to network device configurations. It helps in auditing and verifying that changes are authorized and properly implemented.
  • Multi-Vendor Support
    NCM supports a wide range of network device vendors, making it versatile and useful in heterogeneous network environments.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    The intuitive user interface makes it easy for network administrators to manage configurations, set up compliance rules, and monitor network health.

Possible disadvantages of SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager

  • High Cost
    SolarWinds NCM can be expensive, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises. The licensing and maintenance costs can add up over time.
  • Complex Initial Setup
    The initial setup and configuration of NCM can be complex and time-consuming, requiring a good understanding of the network environment and the software itself.
  • Resource Intensive
    Running SolarWinds NCM can be resource-intensive, requiring substantial server resources, which may necessitate hardware upgrades for optimal performance.
  • Learning Curve
    While the interface is user-friendly, there is still a learning curve for users who are not familiar with network configuration management systems. Training may be required to fully utilize all features.
  • Occasional Performance Issues
    Some users report occasional performance issues, such as slow load times and glitches, particularly in large, complex network environments.

Forward Networks videos

Forward Networks Overview

More videos:

  • Review - Forward Networks Feature Overview
  • Demo - Forward Networks Verify and Predict Demo

SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager videos

SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager Overview

More videos:

  • Review - What is SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Forward Networks and SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager)
Monitoring Tools
22 22%
78% 78
Log Management
45 45%
55% 55
Security
0 0%
100% 100
Auditing And Compliance
100 100%
0% 0

User comments

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What are some alternatives?

When comparing Forward Networks and SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager, you can also consider the following products

NetBrain Enterprise Suite - NetBrain Enterprise Suite free download. Get the latest version now. Automation solution for documentation, troubleshooting and change assurance

Cisco DNA Center - Find and resolve network issues with Cisco DNA Center. Provides software-based network automation and assurance. Control and manage intent-based networks.

SolarWinds IP Address Manager - Tired of spreadsheet-based address management? Save time, boost ROI, and improve network reliability with SolarWinds® IP Address Manager.

Palo Alto Networks Panorama - Greater visibility, tighter control, less effort. Panorama™ network security management simplifies management tasks while delivering comprehensive controls and deep visibility into network-wide traffic and security threats.

Cisco ACI - Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI) simplifies, optimizes, and accelerates the application deployment lifecycle in next-generation data centers and clouds.

F5 Advanced Firewall Manager - Stop even the most massive and complex DDoS attacks with BIG-IP Advanced Firewall Manager: advanced data center protection against layer 3–4 threats.