What is typically a consequence of ineffective configuration management?

Ineffective configuration management often leads to configuration drift, which is the phenomenon where systems become inconsistent due to unauthorized changes, overlooked updates, or various adjustments made outside of the established configuration management processes. Over time, this drift can result in different systems or components having conflicting configurations, which can create a variety of operational issues. For instance, when configurations are not managed or tracked properly, it becomes difficult to ensure that all systems are aligned and function as intended, leading to variability in performance and reliability.

Configuration drift can impede the ability to troubleshoot issues, as discrepancies may not be readily apparent. Furthermore, it can complicate compliance efforts, increase security vulnerabilities, and hinder the deployment of updates or patches, making it harder for organizations to maintain a secure and stable environment. Addressing configuration drift is critical for ensuring consistent operational performance and achieving the desired outcomes from an IT infrastructure.