The Evolution of Network Management: From Manual Configurations to Intelligent Automation

ABSTRACT Automated and intelligent systems now manage networks, unlike in the past when static protocols and manual configuration dominated the field. This review looks at the transformations network management has undergone, starting from manual methods to evolving to Policy‐Based Network Management (PBNM), Software‐Defined Networking (SDN), and eventually Intent‐Based Networking (IBN). It also analyzes the key enabling technologies, foundational architectures, and representative implementations of each network management system. By presenting the operational strategies, technological shifts, and motivations for each network management phase, the article articulates the reasons change happens in the approach taken to manage a network. This review also focuses on the advantages of SDN and IBN, especially concerning automation, threat management, policy enforcement, and scalability. Furthermore, the review explores emerging trends like AI‐powered networks, Zero Trust security, integration of 5G–6G, blockchain uses, and the possibilities offered by quantum networking. By synthesizing technological insights and real‐world adoption scenarios, the paper offers a comprehensive perspective on the future trajectory of intelligent and autonomous network management systems.