Head-to-head · Network Automation Software
Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN vs SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager
Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN leads on 0 checks, SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager on 0, and 1 is even. Who comes out ahead on the 1 yes/no, price and count check where we have data for both products. The editor score weighs everything else too.
Our verdict
- Highest scoreCisco Catalyst SD-WAN · 9.2/10
- Free trialonly SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager
Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN scores higher on our rubric for network automation software: 9.2 against 8.9 out of 10; our editors rank them #2 and #5.
Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN is the better fit for enterprise SD-WAN automation. SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager is the better fit for configuration backup and compliance teams.
- Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN fits best
Enterprise SD-WAN automation
- SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager fits best
Configuration backup and compliance teams
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Side by side
| Feature | Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN 9.2/10 Visit ↗ | SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager 8.9/10 Visit ↗ |
|---|---|---|
| At a glance | ||
| Editor score | 9.2 | 8.9 |
| Ranking | #2 in Network Automation Software | #5 in Network Automation Software |
| Best for | Enterprise SD-WAN automation | Configuration backup and compliance teams |
| Pricing model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting price | Pricing on request | Pricing on request · 30-day trial |
| Free plan | — | — |
| Free trial | — | 30 days |
| Deployment | Cloud, Self-hosted | Self-hosted |
| Platforms | Web | Web |
| Features Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN 0/3 · SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager 0/3 | ||
| Configuration management | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Workflow orchestration | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Network testing | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Specs | ||
| Deployment | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Supported platforms | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Device limit | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Our review | ||
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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| Our verdict | Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN is an enterprise networking platform for connecting branch offices, campuses, data centers, and cloud environments. It is aimed at organizations that need centralized control over distributed WAN infrastructure,… Read the review → |
SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager is self-hosted software for managing configurations across multi-vendor network environments. It is designed for network engineering and IT operations teams responsible for routers, switches,… Read the review → |
Strengths and trade-offs
Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN — where it wins
- Centralizes provisioning, monitoring, upgrades, and troubleshooting
- Routes traffic using application policies and measured network conditions
- Combines zero-touch deployment, cloud on-ramps, and integrated security
Where it doesn't
- Pricing requires contacting sales rather than choosing a public plan
- Its scope centers on SD-WAN rather than general network automation
- Zero-touch provisioning applies to supported WAN edge routers
SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager — where it wins
- Automates backups, restoration, comparison, and change detection
- Supports bulk deployment, scripting, approvals, and real-time alerts
- Adds compliance checks, inventory scans, and firmware workflows
Where it doesn't
- Requires a contact-sales process for pricing
- Self-hosted deployment may require more operational ownership
- No permanent free plan is available
- Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN9.2/10 · Pricing on request
A mature SD-WAN platform for centralized enterprise connectivity, routing, and security.
Visit CiscoFull verdict → - SolarWinds Network Configuration Manager8.9/10 · Pricing on request · 30-day trial
A broad network configuration toolkit for backup, compliance, and controlled change.
Visit SolarWindsFull verdict →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Last updated · How we research and update