An operator node is configured to generate a visualization of the configurations of nodes communicatively coupled to the operator node via a network. The operator node scans target nodes in a network and identifies a set of attributes describing various configuration properties of each node. The operator node compares corresponding attributes across nodes and determines for each attribute a measure of variance. The variance for each attribute is displayed in a grid view, allowing a user to observe the level of similarity or dissimilarity of each attribute across the target nodes of the network. The operator node also defines and implements a policy describing a set of configuration properties with which target nodes must comply. The operator node determines if one or more target nodes is in violation of the policy, displays a differential visualization associated with each policy failure event, and enables an operator to re-configure target nodes accordingly.