Configuration Drift
Definition
Configuration drift is the condition in which the current state of a system no longer matches the desired or documented baseline.
Key Points
- Happens through manual changes, software updates, or uncontrolled automation.
- Weakens reproducibility and complicates incident response.
- Creates security and compliance risk when state is no longer known.
- Must be detected and corrected through configuration management.
Concept
It describes state divergence over time, especially where changes are made outside controlled processes.
Explainer
Configuration drift is not the same as a planned change. Drift is unmanaged divergence; legitimate change management should update the baseline instead of leaving the system out of sync.
Cite this entry
Configuration Drift. ConnectedEarth Knowledge Base. https://connectedearth.space/knowledge-base/configuration-drift/ (updated 13 September 2026).