SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager and Cisco DNA Center compete in network management. Cisco DNA Center has the upper hand in advanced features and large enterprise suitability, while SolarWinds is preferred for smaller networks due to its pricing and support.
Features: SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager is recognized for compliance, reliability, and security vulnerability detection. It also offers automation for configuration changes and centralized backup management. Cisco DNA Center excels with advanced analytics, wireless assurance, and zero-touch provisioning, providing strong integration with Cisco devices and network health insights.
Room for Improvement: SolarWinds could improve its reporting capabilities and third-party tool integration, along with automation features. Cisco DNA Center needs development in affordability, non-Cisco product integration, and user-friendly setup processes. Enhancements in task failure reporting and upgrade efficiency are also needed.
Ease of Deployment and Customer Service: Both products primarily offer on-premises deployment. SolarWinds gets good customer support feedback, though slower response times and report generation issues are noted. Cisco users report complex deployment and a steep learning curve, despite overall positive support experiences.
Pricing and ROI: SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager is cost-effective for smaller businesses, yielding ROI from reduced overheads within three years. Cisco DNA Center is expensive, suitable for large enterprises investing in comprehensive features for centralized management, offering good value in robust capabilities.
Although Cisco DNA Center is expensive, we have seen a return on investment in terms of time savings.
Overall, Cisco DNA Center rates eight out of ten as a complete solution.
SolarWinds tech support is a strong point.
Technical support is limited but generally acceptable as we possess skilled personnel, making us less dependent on SolarWinds.
The solution is designed for large enterprise companies.
The product is scalable as SolarWinds increased its licensing capacity from supporting 12,000 devices to 48,000 devices with stack licenses.
The AI-driven insights have contributed significantly to faster troubleshooting and predictive analytics.
Currently, there are limitations in performing tasks without logging into routers directly.
I would like to see more features in terms of wireless reporting and more historical information for client connectivity in SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager.
The licensing costs of SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager are expensive, but considering its reliability, feature enhancements, and support, it is worthwhile.
The most valuable features include AI-driven insights which make troubleshooting much easier.
The solution facilitates compliance reporting through an NCM module, effectively generating out-of-the-box reports on software vulnerabilities and outdated software versions.
Configuration pushing, upgrade capabilities, job backup, configuration backup, and real-time configuration change monitoring are highly beneficial features of SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager.
Cisco DNA Center offers a comprehensive platform for network automation and management, providing detailed analytics, enhanced security, and streamlined operations for both wired and wireless networks.
Cisco DNA Center integrates with Cisco infrastructure to deliver efficient network automation and management, helping organizations improve network visibility, security, and control. It supports AI-driven analytics and automated workflows to enhance operational efficiency and reduce errors. Challenges include compatibility with third-party systems, steep learning curve, and complex deployment. Its interface facilitates centralized control, vital for troubleshooting, policy management, and configuration management, with support for zero-touch provisioning and SD-Access.
What are the key features of Cisco DNA Center?In sectors such as healthcare, finance, and retail, Cisco DNA Center is utilized for its ability to enhance security and compliance, manage large-scale networks, and provide detailed analytics for better operational decision-making. Its support for location tracking and policy automation ensures efficient network management across diverse environments.
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