What does the term "configuration management" primarily entail?

The term "configuration management" primarily entails the establishment and maintenance of operational standards for networks and systems. This process involves identifying and documenting the configuration of the elements in a system, managing changes, and ensuring the integrity and consistency of those configurations over time. This discipline is critical in ensuring that systems perform optimally and remain secure by reducing the chances of unexpected changes that could lead to vulnerabilities or failures.

In the context of configuration management, operational standards are crucial because they provide a framework for how systems should be configured, monitored, and maintained. This includes specifying hardware and software configurations, defining roles and responsibilities for personnel involved in managing these systems, and establishing procedures for managing changes to the configuration.

Ultimately, effective configuration management helps organizations maintain a stable operational environment, facilitates auditing processes, and supports compliance with regulatory requirements.