SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager Reviews

Users report that SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager offers a decent return on investment, typically paying for itself within three years by reducing the need for onsite Cisco certified engineers. Despite being more expensive, its benefits such as heightened fault visibility and necessary features like compliance and vulnerability assessment provide value. While moderate in ROI, automation and maturity of use can accelerate breakeven, making its adoption advantageous in environments focused on security needs.

Enterprise buyers report that SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager pricing can be perceived as costly, with a base license for 50 devices starting at $1,000 annually. Additional licenses can be added depending on the number of devices, with costs scaling accordingly. Some users pay an annual fee covering upgrades, while others experience additional costs for certain functionalities. Pricing opinions are mixed, with some finding it reasonable and others considering it high compared to cheaper alternatives.

• "The pricing is good."
• "Available at a moderate price"
• "Pricing is reasonable and competitive."

Organizations use SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager for managing network configurations, handling backups, ensuring compliance, and performing security assessments. It supports Cisco, Juniper, and other vendor devices, automates backup routines, facilitates configuration changes, enables monitoring, and enhances network visibility. Additionally, it is employed for vulnerability management, firmware upgrades, and troubleshooting, and offers automation by allowing mass configuration updates across multiple devices. Users appreciate its capabilities in aiding disaster recovery and maintaining standard configurations.

SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager customer support receives mixed feedback. While many appreciate tier three assistance and general helpfulness, response times are often criticized, with some experiencing delays up to a week. Requests for technical clarity and fast prioritization remain. Ratings vary, though usually fall between seven to nine out of ten, indicating satisfactory but improvable service. Some report smooth operations without much need for assistance, yet desire enhancements in speed and issue resolution.

Many found SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager's initial setup to be straightforward, especially in smaller environments. Deployment often takes a few hours, requiring minimal personnel. Some faced challenges in larger networks or when lacking familiarity with the tool. Configuring devices posed difficulties due to organizational policies and necessary knowledge. Preparation of devices and ensuring network communication was key for a smooth setup. Documentation is clear, aiding in understanding and completing the process efficiently.

SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager is considered highly scalable by multiple users, managing extensive numbers of devices from hundreds to thousands efficiently. Its ability to expand with additional licenses and cover multiple clients is noted. Users find it suitable for various enterprise sizes and appreciate its ease of use. Although some encountered midrange scalability, many rate it between seven and nine out of ten, mentioning capacity up to 48,000 devices with stack licenses.

SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager exhibits strong stability. Many users report consistent stability, giving ratings between six to ten out of ten. Some encountered minor issues like NCM job handling or network health evaluations, suggesting areas for improvement. Users cite external influences and system configuration as factors affecting performance. Proper management with an external SQL server enhances stability. Comparisons with competitors show mixed stability assessments, yet users largely express satisfaction with operational reliability.