Configuration Drift occurs when the actual configuration of systems or infrastructure deviates from their intended or documented state over time. This can happen due to manual changes, ad-hoc fixes, or inconsistent update processes. Configuration drift can lead to security vulnerabilities, compliance issues, and operational inconsistencies. In cloud and DevOps environments, where infrastructure is often defined as code, configuration drift can undermine the benefits of automated, repeatable deployments. Detecting and managing configuration drift typically involves using configuration management tools, implementing infrastructure as code practices, and regularly auditing systems against their defined configurations. Addressing configuration drift is crucial for maintaining a secure, compliant, and efficient IT environment.
