ProCurve Manager End of Life Alternatives: Aruba, Cisco & Migration Guide

HPE ProCurve Manager (PCM/PCM+) was once a trusted network management platform widely used by enterprises to configure, monitor, and optimize HPE switches and routers. However, ProCurve Manager has officially reached end of life (EoL), which means no more updates, patches, or technical support from HPE.

For IT managers and network administrators, this creates both risks and opportunities. Unsupported software exposes networks to security vulnerabilities, compliance issues, and compatibility problems with modern hardware. The question now is: What are the best ProCurve Manager end of life alternatives for your organization?

This article provides an in-depth guide to PCM EoL, official and third-party alternatives, migration considerations, and cost-effective procurement strategies.

Part 1: Why ProCurve Manager Reached End of Life and Why You Need Alternatives

• Lifecycle completion: HPE transitioned its ProCurve portfolio into Aruba, phasing out PCM in favor of newer platforms.
• Security risks: Without patches, PCM cannot meet modern enterprise security standards.
• Lack of support: No vendor assistance for troubleshooting or bug fixes.
• Compatibility issues: PCM struggles with newer ArubaOS devices, cloud-based management, and modern APIs.

Continuing to rely on PCM increases operational risks and may hinder digital transformation initiatives.

Part 2: Official HPE/Aruba ProCurve Manager End of Life Alternatives

HPE directs former ProCurve users toward its Aruba portfolio:

1. Aruba AirWave (On-Premises Alternative to ProCurve Manager)

• Deployment: On-premises solution.
• Strengths: Strong visibility, multi-vendor support, detailed monitoring.
• Limitations: Limited cloud integration; primarily suited for hybrid or legacy environments.

2. Aruba Central (Cloud-Based ProCurve Manager Replacement)

• Deployment: Cloud-based management platform.
• Strengths: Scalability, AI-driven insights, zero-touch provisioning, advanced analytics.
• Limitations: Subscription-based, which may increase long-term costs.

Part 3: Cisco ProCurve Manager Alternatives and Third-Party Network Management Solutions

Some enterprises prefer to use multi-vendor or Cisco-centric solutions as a replacement for PCM:

Cisco DNA Center

• Strengths: Intent-based networking, automation, AI analytics.
• Best for: Organizations standardizing on Cisco hardware.
• Limitation: Higher cost and licensing complexity.

Cisco Prime Infrastructure

• Strengths: Mature, widely used, integrates with Cisco wireless and switching.
• Limitations: Gradual transition toward DNA Center.

Third-Party Network Management Systems

• SolarWinds NPM: Comprehensive monitoring and alerting.
• Paessler PRTG: Flexible, cost-effective for SMBs.
• ManageEngine OpManager: User-friendly with strong reporting.

Tip: When evaluating alternatives, consider scalability, vendor lock-in, integration with existing equipment, and total cost of ownership.

Part 4: Comparison of ProCurve Manager End of Life Alternatives

Choosing the right ProCurve Manager end of life alternative depends on your infrastructure, budget, and long-term IT strategy. Below is a side-by-side comparison:

Looking for the best deal on Aruba Central, Cisco DNA Center, or other ProCurve Manager alternatives? Check global prices on it-price.com or purchase directly from router-switch.com, a trusted global supplier of Cisco, HPE, and Aruba networking equipment.

Part 5: Migration Considerations

Transitioning from ProCurve Manager requires careful planning:

1. Assess Current Environment
   • Inventory all devices currently managed by PCM.
   • Check firmware versions and compatibility.
2. Define Objectives
   • Do you need multi-vendor support or a single-vendor solution?
   • On-premises or cloud-based management?
3. Pilot Migration
   • Run test deployments with Aruba Central, Cisco DNA Center, or chosen third-party tools.
   • Validate performance and security policies.
4. Mitigate Risks
   • Schedule migrations during low-traffic periods.
   • Maintain rollback plans.

Part 6: Procurement and Cost Optimization

Replacing ProCurve Manager often means investing in new management platforms and potentially new hardware. Key considerations:

• Licensing Models: Understand perpetual vs subscription pricing.
• Hardware Refresh: Some alternatives (like Aruba Central or Cisco DNA Center) may require newer switches or controllers.
• Vendor Selection: Choose reliable partners for genuine equipment and ongoing support.

Part 7: Best Practices and Case Scenarios

• Small and Medium Businesses (SMBs): Often benefit from cloud-based Aruba Central or cost-effective tools like PRTG.
• Large Enterprises: Prefer Cisco DNA Center or Aruba AirWave for scalability, AI features, and enterprise-grade automation.
• Hybrid Environments: Multi-vendor networks may integrate better with third-party platforms like SolarWinds.

Part 8: FAQ on ProCurve Manager End of Life and Alternatives

Q1: Is ProCurve Manager still supported?

No, PCM has reached end of life. HPE no longer provides updates or technical support.

Q2: What’s the difference between Aruba AirWave and Aruba Central?

AirWave is an on-premises solution, while Aruba Central is cloud-based with advanced AI features and scalability.

Q3: Can I keep using PCM after EoL?

Yes, but it poses security, compliance, and compatibility risks. Migration is strongly recommended.

Q4: Which alternative is most cost-effective for SMBs?

PRTG or Aruba Central entry plans typically offer the best balance of cost and functionality.

Q5: Where can I buy genuine Aruba or Cisco hardware after PCM EoL?

You can purchase from authorized suppliers like router-switch.com, which provides global shipping, or check worldwide pricing trends with it-price.com.

Q6: How can I compare prices before migrating from ProCurve Manager?

Use it-price.com to request quotes, analyze price trends, and download reports to support procurement decisions.

Conclusion

HPE ProCurve Manager’s end of life marks the end of an era in network management. Organizations that continue using PCM risk security vulnerabilities and operational inefficiencies. Fortunately, there are robust alternatives—Aruba AirWave, Aruba Central, Cisco DNA Center, Cisco Prime, and third-party platforms—that can meet modern enterprise needs.

For a smooth transition, IT teams should evaluate their current infrastructure, define migration goals, and choose a solution that balances cost, scalability, and functionality. By leveraging trusted suppliers like Router-Switch and free tools like it-price, enterprises can streamline procurement, reduce costs, and ensure a future-proof network management strategy.