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ManageEngine Network Configuration Manager VS Cisco DNA Center

Compare ManageEngine Network Configuration Manager VS Cisco DNA Center and see what are their differences

ManageEngine Network Configuration Manager logo ManageEngine Network Configuration Manager

Network Configuration Manager is a multi-vendor, network change, configuration and compliance management solution for switches and routers.

Cisco DNA Center logo 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.
  • ManageEngine Network Configuration Manager Landing page
    Landing page //
    2022-12-24

Network Configuration Manager is a multi-vendor, network change, configuration and compliance management (NCCM) solution for switches, routers, firewalls and other network devices. NCM helps automate and take total control of the entire life cycle of device configuration management.

  • Cisco DNA Center Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-08-17

ManageEngine Network Configuration Manager features and specs

  • Automated Configuration Management
    ManageEngine Network Configuration Manager automates the process of backing up, saving, and restoring network device configurations, reducing manual effort and minimizing configuration errors.
  • Compliance and Auditing
    The tool helps ensure network compliance by monitoring and auditing configurations against regulatory standards, allowing businesses to maintain compliance effortlessly.
  • Change Management
    Enables efficient tracking and management of configuration changes, including user-wise change traceability and approval-based workflow, which helps in mitigating unauthorized changes.
  • Multi-Vendor Support
    Offers support for a wide range of network device vendors, allowing it to manage configurations across diverse networks efficiently.
  • Configuration Comparison
    Provides features for easy comparison of configurations, facilitating quick identification of changes and easing troubleshooting efforts.

Possible disadvantages of ManageEngine Network Configuration Manager

  • Steep Learning Curve
    While feature-rich, the tool can have a steep learning curve for new users unfamiliar with network configuration management solutions.
  • UI Complexity
    Some users find the user interface to be cluttered and complex, potentially making it difficult to navigate without adequate training.
  • Performance Issues
    Users with extensive network infrastructures might encounter performance issues, particularly during heavy data processing tasks like bulk configuration updates.
  • Cost
    The licensing and subscription fees can be relatively high, which might not be suitable for smaller organizations with limited budgets.
  • Limited Integration Capabilities
    While it integrates with other ManageEngine products, integration with third-party solutions can be limited, potentially restricting its versatility in mixed software environments.

Cisco DNA Center features and specs

  • Centralized Network Management
    DNA Center offers a single pane of glass for managing the entire network, which simplifies operations and reduces administrative overhead.
  • Automation and AI-Driven Insights
    It uses AI and machine learning to provide predictive insights and automate routine tasks, improving efficiency and reducing human error.
  • Enhanced Security
    Integrates security features like Cisco ISE, providing network visibility and segmentation, which help in identifying and mitigating threats swiftly.
  • Scalability
    Designed to scale with your network, it supports a wide range of network sizes and can evolve as your network grows.
  • Integration Capabilities
    Offers extensive integration with third-party systems and other Cisco solutions, allowing for a more cohesive IT ecosystem.

Possible disadvantages of Cisco DNA Center

  • Cost
    The initial investment and ongoing licensing fees can be high, which may be a barrier for smaller organizations.
  • Complexity
    The wide array of features and capabilities can lead to a steep learning curve for IT staff who are not already familiar with Cisco products.
  • Hardware Dependence
    Some features and functionalities require specific Cisco hardware, which can limit flexibility and increase costs.
  • Vendor Lock-In
    Using Cisco-exclusive solutions may limit options for integrating non-Cisco hardware and software in the future.
  • Implementation Time
    Deploying Cisco DNA Center can be time-consuming and may require substantial planning and resources to implement effectively.

Analysis of Cisco DNA Center

Overall verdict

  • Cisco DNA Center is generally considered a robust and comprehensive network management solution designed for enterprise environments.

Why this product is good

  • It offers a wide range of features, including network automation, policy-based segmentation, assurance, and analytics. These capabilities help improve network performance, enhance security, and simplify management tasks. Additionally, its ability to provide deep insights and automate complex processes makes it a valuable tool for IT teams managing large and sophisticated networks.

Recommended for

    Cisco DNA Center is particularly recommended for large enterprises and organizations with complex network infrastructures that require automated solutions, centralized management, and advanced troubleshooting tools. It is also suitable for those looking to enhance network security and performance through segmentation and analytics.

ManageEngine Network Configuration Manager videos

Network Configuration Manager - Overview

Cisco DNA Center videos

Overview of Cisco DNA Center

More videos:

  • Tutorial - How to use Cisco DNA Center Appliance for Assurance and SD-Access
  • Review - Overview of Cisco DNA Center Assurance

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to ManageEngine Network Configuration Manager and Cisco DNA Center)
Monitoring Tools
17 17%
83% 83
Network Automation
100 100%
0% 0
Log Management
20 20%
80% 80
Security
0 0%
100% 100

User comments

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What are some alternatives?

When comparing ManageEngine Network Configuration Manager and Cisco DNA Center, you can also consider the following products

SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager - SolarWinds is a leading provider of powerful and affordable IT infrastructure management software. Make IT look easy.

Nmap - Nmap Free Security Scanner, Port Scanner, & Network Exploration Tool. Download open source software for Linux, Windows, UNIX, FreeBSD, etc.

Junos Space Security Director - Quickly understand threats & how to remediate them with Junos Space Security Director. This responsive network security management application empowers your security team to keep your company safe.

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.

Cisco Network Assistant - Cisco Network Assistant simplifies wired and wireless network management, and provides critical product information using Cisco Active Advisor.

Unimus - Unimus is a Network Automation and Configuration management (NCM) solution designed for fast deployment network-wide and ease of use. Unimus does not require learning any abstraction or templating languages, and does not require any coding skills.