A method and apparatus for modifying the configuration of a network device, such as a router, using a two-stage configuration model is provided. A first request from a user for a change in configuration of a network device is received. Configuration data associated with the first request is stored. A second request to modify the configuration of the network device to reflect the configuration data is received. An exclusive lock on the network device is assigned to the user preventing other users from modifying the configuration of the network device. The current operational state of the network device is modified to reflect the configuration data, which is then stored in a device configuration database. Users can view configuration history data to view prior configurations of the network device. Multiple users may modify the network device without interfering with one another because conflicts are avoided through use of an exclusive lock.