3 Sept 2024

Why It’s Time to Retire Rancid: Future-Proofing Network Tools with rConfig

Why It’s Time to Retire Rancid: Future-Proofing Network Tools with rConfig

Rancid had its moment—but your network deserves better. Discover why modern IT teams are ditching legacy tools and turning to rConfig for scalable, future-ready network management.

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rconfig logo

rConfig

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Hello there, tech aficionados and network gurus! I'm your friendly neighborhood CTO at rConfig, and I've seen things in network management that are scarier than my nana's unannounced Sunday visits. Today, let’s talk about a beast that's been lurking in the shadows of our server rooms for too long: Rancid.

Rancid has been the backbone of many network management strategies since the days when dial-up tones were the soundtrack of our online lives. But just like those unforgettable symphonies of screeching modems, it’s time to bid Rancid adieu. Why? Because future-proofing your network tools is not just about avoiding obsolescence; it's about embracing the shiny new toys of the trade that actually make life easier.

Why Rancid Isn't Ripening with Age

Rancid, bless its digital heart, is like that one actor who peaked in the '90s and has been playing the same role ever since. In network management, that's not just a faux pas; it's a full-blown fashion disaster. We're in an era where flexibility and scalability are the names of the game, and Rancid is still trying to fit into its high school jeans.

Don't get me wrong, Rancid did its job back when we were all excited about the new millennium. But now, as we're hurtling toward a future filled with AI, IoT, and acronyms galore, sticking with Rancid is like using a flip phone to tweet; it's not the tool, it's a cry for help.

Related article: Why It's Time to Say Goodbye to Rancid and Embrace rConfig for Network Management

The Future-Proofing Frenzy

Now, future-proofing your network tools doesn't mean you need to have a crystal ball. It means choosing tools that adapt faster than a chameleon at a rave. It's about ensuring that your network management system is more resilient than a cockroach in a nuclear fallout.

At rConfig, we don't just read the tea leaves; we plant the tea bushes. We're all about building tools that not only stand the test of time but also evolve with it. Think of rConfig as your network management's personal fitness trainer, getting it into shape to run the marathon that is the ever-changing landscape of technology.

Building a Toolbox for the 22nd Century

When I say toolbox, I'm not talking about a rusty old box with a wrench from the Cold War era. I'm talking about a sleek, Swiss Army knife of a toolbox that's got more gadgets than a Bond car. rConfig is this toolbox, and it's not just ready for the 22nd century; it's ready to build it.

With rConfig, you're not just keeping up with the times; you're setting the pace. You're not just responding to trends; you're creating them. Why? Because our tools are designed to be as adaptable as a politician's promises but, you know, actually reliable.

Conclusion: A Toast to the Future

To wrap this up before I get too misty-eyed about the future, let's raise a virtual glass to moving beyond Rancid. To the days when our network tools are as advanced as the plot of a sci-fi movie and as sturdy as an old oak table.

So here's to evolving, to adapting, and to making sure that the only thing Rancid about our networks is the name of the software we used to use. Cheers, and may your packets always find the shortest route!

Why rConfig is Going All-In at Zabbix Summit 2025 — and What We’re Launching There

We’re thrilled to share that rConfig is going Platinum at the Zabbix Summit 2025, taking place this October 8–10 in Riga. This isn’t just a sponsorship — it’s a statement. We're bringing the full power of our new rConfig V8 release to the global stage, including two major new features: a next-gen Zabbix integration and a soon-to-be-revealed AI-powered capability that’s going to change the game for network teams. If you’re in the business of automating, scaling, or securing network operations — you’ll want to see what’s coming.

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Cisco Critical CVE Image
Cisco Critical CVE Image
🚨 URGENT: Critical Cisco Vulnerability Allows Remote Command Execution with Root Privileges (CVE-2025-20188)

Network security teams are racing to address a new critical vulnerability in Cisco IOS XE Wireless Controller Software. With a maximum CVSS score of 10.0, CVE-2025-20188 allows unauthenticated attackers to remotely execute commands with root privileges across enterprise networks. This post explains the vulnerability details and demonstrates how rConfig's automation tools can detect, mitigate, and verify fixes across your entire infrastructure within minutes instead of days. Protect your Catalyst 9800 devices now with these step-by-step remediation techniques.

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rconfig vector poster
rconfig vector poster
Introducing rConfig Vector: Scalable, Distributed Network Configuration Management for Modern Teams

Discover rConfig Vector—the next-gen distributed NCM solution designed for scale, speed, and security. Built for modern IT teams, Vector offers high availability, encryption by default, lightning-fast backups, and seamless tool integration. Future-proof your network management today.

Stephen Stack

CTO, rConfig

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Trusted by Leading Enterprises

Want to see how rConfig can transform your network management?

Contact us today to discuss your specific use case and get expert guidance on securing and optimizing your infrastructure.

An isometric illustration of a person standing on a digital platform beside a staircase, interacting with floating holographic screens, symbolizing technological advancement and data analysis.

+5

Trusted by Leading Enterprises

Want to see how rConfig can transform your network management?

Contact us today to discuss your specific use case and get expert guidance on securing and optimizing your infrastructure.

An isometric illustration of a person standing on a digital platform beside a staircase, interacting with floating holographic screens, symbolizing technological advancement and data analysis.

+5

Trusted by Leading Enterprises

Want to see how rConfig can transform your network management?

Contact us today to discuss your specific use case and get expert guidance on securing and optimizing your infrastructure.

An isometric illustration of a person standing on a digital platform beside a staircase, interacting with floating holographic screens, symbolizing technological advancement and data analysis.