10 Best B2B Multi-Cloud Platform Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 22 tools reviewed.
Navigating multiple cloud providers can often feel like a juggling act, especially when unifying distinct cloud environments. Enter the B2B multi-cloud platform: a solution that bridges these environments, making your multi-cloud strategy more effective and efficient. This tool simplifies the orchestration and management of diverse cloud resources.
Its primary benefit? It addresses the complexities and fragmented workflows of dealing with multiple cloud providers. By considering this platform, you're taking a proactive step towards streamlined cloud operations, and I genuinely believe it could be the game-changer you've been looking for.
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Best B2B Multi-Cloud Platforms Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top B2B multicloud platform selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for multi-cloud orchestration. | Not available | Pricing upon request. | Website | |
| 2 | Best for application modernization efforts | 90-day free trial | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 3 | Best for network and security integration | Not available | Pricing upon request. | Website | |
| 4 | Best for SDDC architecture consistency | Not available | Pricing upon request. | Website | |
| 5 | Best for data-centric cloud strategies | Free trial with up to 500GB of storage available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 6 | Best for simplifying cloud migration projects | Not available | Pricing upon request. | Website | |
| 7 | Best for cloud security posture management | Not available | From $60/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 8 | Best for software license management | Not available | Pricing upon request. | Website | |
| 9 | Best for hybrid cloud automation | Not available | Pricing upon request. | Website | |
| 10 | Best for managing servers across environments | Not available | Pricing upon request. | Website |
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Best B2B Multi-Cloud Platforms Reviews
Below are my detailed summaries of the best B2B multicloud platform that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a detailed look at the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
IBM Multicloud Manager empowers businesses to deploy, run, and manage applications across on-premises, private, and public clouds. With a unique emphasis on multi-cloud orchestration, it ensures coordinated operations across various cloud platforms.
Why I Picked IBM Multicloud Manager: In evaluating tools, IBM Multicloud Manager came to the forefront due to its comprehensive capabilities for multi-cloud orchestration. I determined that its distinctive orchestration features set it apart from many other tools on the market.
I chose IBM Multicloud Manager as it aligns with businesses looking for effective multi-cloud orchestration solutions.
Standout Features & Integrations:
IBM Multicloud Manager stands out for its ability to ensure security and compliance in multi-cloud environments. It also offers a consolidated view of various cloud environments, allowing centralized management.
The tool integrates smoothly with IBM's cloud ecosystem, including IBM Cloud Private, IBM Cloud Kubernetes Service, and Red Hat OpenShift.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Smooth integration with the IBM cloud ecosystem.
- Centralized view of diverse cloud environments.
- Offers strong security and compliance measures for multi-cloud.
Cons:
- Could have a steeper learning curve for those new to multi-cloud orchestration.
- Limited transparency in pricing.
- Might be more suitable for businesses familiar with IBM cloud products.
Google Anthos is a comprehensive platform that aids businesses in building and managing applications both in the cloud and on-premises. This tool prioritizes application modernization, providing a consistent experience across cloud environments.
Why I Picked Google Anthos: While determining which tool to feature, Google Anthos emerged as a frontrunner due to its unique approach to application management and deployment. When comparing different platforms, Google Anthos resonated with my judgment because of its emphasis on modernizing applications across multiple environments.
I chose Anthos for its ability to tackle application modernization challenges, which is essential in today's evolving tech landscape.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Anthos offers a hybrid and multi-cloud platform, allowing for the deployment of applications anywhere. Its config management enables a consistent and unified way to manage resources in hybrid and multi-cloud environments.
In terms of integrations, Anthos integrates well with Google Cloud’s suite of services, such as BigQuery, Dataflow, and AI Platform, enhancing its capabilities for application management.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Emphasis on hybrid and multi-cloud deployment.
- Strong integration with Google Cloud services.
- Enables a consistent application experience across different environments.
Cons:
- May require additional training for optimal utilization.
- Pricing details are not readily transparent.
- Might be complex for those unfamiliar with Google Cloud.
Cisco Multi-Cloud is designed to streamline implementations across various cloud environments while embedding robust network and security measures. Its specialization in network and security integration ensures businesses achieve a fortified and interconnected cloud infrastructure.
Why I Picked Cisco Multi-Cloud: After comparing various cloud management platforms and judging their capabilities, I determined Cisco Multi-Cloud to be a standout, particularly regarding network and security integration.
Through my analysis, I discerned that while many platforms offer cloud management, Cisco Multi-Cloud's commitment to integrating these crucial aspects sets it apart. This rationale is precisely why I believe it's "Best for network and security integration."
Standout Features & Integrations:
Cisco Multi-Cloud excels in offering a unified infrastructure as a service (IaaS) and platform as a service (PaaS) experience, ensuring businesses have an absolute approach to deploying and managing applications. Its emphasis on scalability ensures that as businesses grow, the platform can adapt to increasing demands.
Integrations-wise, Cisco Multi-Cloud ties in well with major cloud service providers and security solutions, ensuring businesses have the flexibility to maintain a diverse cloud strategy.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Scalability that matches business growth.
- Unified IaaS and PaaS offerings.
- Strong emphasis on network and security integrations.
Cons:
- Some features may require additional training or support.
- May be complex for small businesses or beginners.
- Pricing information is not transparent.
VMware Cloud Foundation offers a holistic solution for businesses to run an integrated cloud infrastructure that merges computing, storage, and networking on a single platform. Focusing on Software-Defined Data Center (SDDC) consistency ensures that the infrastructure is uniformly manageable across various settings.
Why I Picked VMware Cloud Foundation: When selecting tools for inclusion, VMware Cloud Foundation made a distinct impression due to its robust approach to maintaining SDDC architecture consistency. Through my analysis, I judged it to be a prime solution, especially when comparing its ability to offer consistent management across different infrastructure settings. I chose VMware Cloud Foundation because of its specialization in ensuring SDDC architecture remains coherent across deployments.
Standout Features & Integrations:
VMware Cloud Foundation is designed with an integrated software set that provides full-stack infrastructure for both VM-based and containerized applications. It facilitates lifecycle management for ease of upgrades and patching.
For integrations, it integrates with the broader VMware ecosystem, including tools like vSAN, NSX, and vRealize Suite, promoting a unified experience.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong integration with VMware's range of products.
- Comprehensive lifecycle management features.
- Ensures consistency across SDDC architecture.
Cons:
- The learning curve for businesses new to SDDC concepts.
- Pricing transparency is limited.
- May require VMware-centric knowledge for best utilization.
NetApp specializes in providing organizations with cloud data services to manage and store their vast amounts of data efficiently. By centering on a data-centric approach, NetApp ensures that businesses can harness the full potential of their data in the cloud.
Why I Picked NetApp: While selecting cloud tools for various uses, it became evident that NetApp's particular emphasis on data-centric strategies set it apart from the rest. I compared its offerings and judged its capabilities, and I believe it offers a unique perspective in the cloud management space.
I chose it specifically for the list due to its unparalleled focus on data, making it the best for businesses prioritizing data-centric cloud strategies.
Standout Features & Integrations:
NetApp boasts features that offer a holistic approach to data management, ensuring that businesses can efficiently store, access, and analyze their data. Their integrative data protection solutions and automated data tiering are among the features that organizations find invaluable.
Integration-wise, NetApp collaborates with various cloud providers, data visualization tools, and analytics platforms to offer a comprehensive data management ecosystem.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Emphasis on data-centric cloud strategies.
- Integrations with leading cloud providers and analytics tools.
- Robust data management and storage capabilities.
Cons:
- Requires familiarity with data-centric strategies for optimal use.
- Might be complex for businesses with minimal data management needs.
- Pricing details are not readily available.
SkyKick Cloud Manager is a dedicated platform constructed to streamline the intricacies of cloud migration projects. Its prowess in transforming convoluted migration tasks into straightforward processes makes it an invaluable tool for businesses, particularly when simplification is paramount.
Why I Picked SkyKick Cloud Manager: In my quest to select the prime tool for cloud migration projects, I meticulously compared various platforms, and SkyKick Cloud Manager indisputably shone the brightest. One significant distinction that captured my attention is its adept use of machine learning to tackle challenges posed by migration.
My opinion, after judging its capabilities, is that it's unequivocally best for those who want to uncomplicate their migration journey.
Standout Features & Integrations:
SkyKick Cloud Manager is embedded with powerful machine-learning algorithms that enhance its migration capabilities. Its multi-cloud approach ensures businesses can effortlessly transition between different cloud environments or even shift back to on-premises setups when required.
Integration-wise, it offers compatibility with various open-source tools, enabling a fluid migration experience.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integrations with open-source tools.
- Enables a multi-cloud approach for versatile migration paths.
- Incorporates machine learning for better migration decisions.
Cons:
- Requires a learning curve for those unfamiliar with migration processes.
- Might have features that are excessive for small-scale migrations.
- Absence of direct pricing information.
InsightCloudSec by Rapid7 provides comprehensive solutions for businesses seeking to fortify their cloud security posture. With the increasing intricacies of cloud computing and the vulnerabilities it can introduce InsightCloudSec's capabilities ensure businesses remain ahead of security challenges.
Its prowess in cloud security posture management validates its reputation as the optimal solution in this niche.
Why I Picked InsightCloudSec: Through my process of evaluating, comparing, and determining the best tools in the market, InsightCloudSec caught my attention with its robust capabilities. In my opinion, it's the differentiator in a saturated market due to its advanced features and the emphasis on security posture.
With the surging complexity of cloud infrastructure, both in the private cloud and public domains, I judged InsightCloudSec as the best for businesses that need heightened security measures.
Standout Features & Integrations:
InsightCloudSec has a remarkable ability to offer insights powered by artificial intelligence, helping businesses identify and rectify security flaws. Their extensive API integrations further allow for broad compatibility across various cloud platforms.
Integration-wise, it smoothly links up with numerous cloud providers, making it versatile in safeguarding various cloud infrastructures.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Dedicated to cloud security posture management.
- Vast API integrations for varied cloud platforms.
- Comprehensive AI-driven security insights.
Cons:
- The lack of transparent pricing can be a deterrent for some.
- The API-centric approach may not suit all businesses.
- Might have a learning curve for those new to cloud security.
Flexera Cloud Management Platform offers businesses a comprehensive solution for managing and optimizing their software licenses across various platforms. With a focus on catering to diverse business needs, the tool stands out as a quintessential solution when the primary concern is software license management.
Why I Picked Flexera Cloud Management Platform: Navigating through many cloud management tools, my task was to select one that shines in managing software licenses. Flexera grabbed my attention not merely due to its core functionalities but because it uniquely addressed specific use cases that many enterprises grapple with.
Based on my judgment and comparison with other contenders, I am convinced that Flexera is best tailored for organizations that prioritize software license management.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Flexera's strong suit is its capability to manage software licenses for various SaaS products, ensuring businesses remain compliant and evade unforeseen costs. The platform also caters to service providers, ensuring they, too, can meet their client requirements efficiently.
Integration-wise, Flexera boasts compatibility with a broad range of enterprise tools, amplifying its utility for diverse organizational structures.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Broad integration capabilities catering to various business needs.
- Caters to both enterprises and service providers.
- Robust software license management for numerous SaaS products.
Cons:
- Certain features might be overkill for small businesses.
- Might present a learning curve for newcomers.
- Lack of direct pricing transparency.
CloudBolt Cloud Management Platform empowers businesses with a cloud solution that automates their hybrid environments. This tool is adept at orchestrating workloads between on-prem and cloud-native infrastructures, aligning perfectly with its claim of excelling in hybrid cloud automation.
Why I Picked CloudBolt Cloud Management Platform: In my journey to determine the crème de la crème of cloud management tools, CloudBolt emerged as a contender not just for its comprehensive features but for its particular expertise in hybrid cloud automation. Having judged, compared, and analyzed various platforms, I gravitated towards CloudBolt because of its unique proposition of addressing specific DevOps requirements, especially for hybrid setups.
Standout Features & Integrations:
CloudBolt stands out with its generative capabilities, allowing businesses to deploy and manage both traditional and cloud-native resources with ease. Moreover, its inherent design facilitates the incorporation of DevOps methodologies into its workflow.
As for integrations, CloudBolt maintains a commendable roster, ensuring that diverse enterprise tools can cohesively function within its ecosystem.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Robust integration suite accommodating varied enterprise tools.
- Generative approach facilitating easy deployment.
- Comprehensive automation capabilities for hybrid clouds.
Cons:
- Certain features may require advanced technical know-how.
- Might be overwhelming for businesses new to cloud management.
- Absence of direct pricing information.
Microsoft Azure Arc extends Azure's management capabilities to infrastructure across environments, including on-premises, multi-cloud, and edge. This flexibility ensures that businesses can run Azure data services anywhere, efficiently managing servers regardless of location.
Why I Picked Microsoft Azure Arc: In my journey of selecting tools, Microsoft Azure Arc stood out due to its capability to unify server management across diverse environments. I compared it to various tools, judged its functionalities, and formed the opinion that its cross-environment features are unparalleled.
I chose Microsoft Azure Arc for this list because it distinctively addresses the challenge of server management across multiple environments, making it best for such use cases.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Azure Arc offers consistent management, governance, and enhanced security across environments, making infrastructure management less complex. It also facilitates the deployment of Azure SQL and Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS) anywhere.
As for integrations, Azure Arc integrates with Azure services such as Azure Monitor, Azure Security Center, and Azure Policy, ensuring that all services are under a unified management domain.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Enhanced security features.
- Integration with other Azure services.
- Unified management across on-premises, multi-cloud, and edge.
Cons:
- Potential over-complexity for smaller infrastructure needs.
- Learning curve for businesses new to Azure ecosystem.
- Pricing details are not transparently available.
Other B2B Multi-Cloud Platforms
Below is a list of additional B2B multi-cloud platforms I shortlisted but did not make it to the top 10. These are also worth checking out.
- CloudHealth by VMware
For cost and resource management
- BMC Helix Multi-Cloud Service Management
For integrated ITSM processes
- Nutanix Xi Cloud Services
Good for hyper-converged cloud infrastructure
- Morpheus Data
Good for multi-cloud provisioning and orchestration
- Embotics
Good for virtual machine provisioning and automation
- Platform9 Managed Kubernetes (PMK)
Good for scalable Kubernetes deployments
- Nerdio
Good for virtual desktop infrastructure in Azure
- Red Hat OpenShift
Good for container orchestration and automation
- Mirantis Flow
Good for end-to-end container management
- Vnomic Intelligent Automation for Multi-Cloud
Good for policy-driven cloud automation
- CloudCheckr Cloud Management Platform
Good for cloud cost optimization
- Dell Technologies Cloud
Good for hybrid cloud operations
B2B Multi-Cloud Platform Selection Criteria
When selecting the best B2B multi-cloud platform to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like managing complex deployments and ensuring data security. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Manage multiple cloud environments
- Provide centralized monitoring and management
- Ensure data security and compliance
- Facilitate workload automation
- Offer cost management and optimization
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- Advanced data analytics capabilities
- AI-driven automation tools
- Customizable dashboards and reports
- Cross-cloud compatibility
- Real-time threat detection
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive user interface
- Easy navigation and layout
- Minimal learning curve
- Customization options
- Speed and performance
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos and tutorials
- Interactive product tours
- Access to templates and guides
- Supportive chatbots and live chat
- Regular webinars and workshops
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- 24/7 support availability
- Multiple support channels
- Access to a dedicated support team
- Comprehensive knowledge base
- Responsive ticketing system
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Pricing compared to features offered
- Flexible pricing plans
- Transparency in pricing structure
- Discounts for long-term commitments
- Free trials or demos
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Overall satisfaction rating
- Commonly praised features
- Reported issues or limitations
- Feedback on customer support
- User testimonials and case studies
How to Choose a B2B Multi-Cloud Platform
It's easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. Many businesses find that SaaS management platforms help simplify this evaluation process. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here's a checklist of factors to keep in mind:
| Factor | What to Consider |
|---|---|
| Scalability | Will the platform grow with your business? Consider future needs and whether the tool can handle increased workloads without losing performance. |
| Integrations | Does it connect with your existing tools? Check for compatibility with your current systems to avoid integration headaches later. |
| Customizability | Can you tailor it to your workflows? Look for flexibility in settings and features to ensure it fits your unique processes. |
| Ease of use | Is it user-friendly for your team? Consider the learning curve and whether your team can start using it effectively without extensive training. |
| Implementation and onboarding | How quickly can you get started? Evaluate the setup time and resources needed for a smooth transition. Look for available support during onboarding. |
| Cost | Does the pricing fit your budget? Be wary of hidden fees and ensure you understand the pricing structure, including any additional costs for support or upgrades. |
| Security safeguards | Are your data and operations secure? Assess the security measures in place to protect against breaches and comply with industry standards. |
| Compliance requirements | Does it meet your industry’s regulations? Ensure the platform can support compliance with necessary legal and regulatory requirements specific to your field. |
What Are B2B Multi-Cloud Platforms?
B2B multi-cloud platforms are software solutions that help businesses manage and optimize their use of multiple cloud services. IT professionals and cloud managers typically use these tools to increase efficiency and ensure data security across different cloud environments. Features like centralized monitoring, automated compliance, and cost management help with managing complex deployments and maintaining security. Overall, these cloud integration platforms provide businesses with the flexibility and control needed to maximize their cloud investments.
Features
When selecting B2B multi-cloud platform, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- Centralized monitoring: Provides a single dashboard to view and manage all cloud services, helping teams maintain control and efficiency.
- Automated compliance: Ensures cloud environments adhere to industry regulations, reducing the risk of non-compliance.
- Cost management: Offers tools to track and optimize cloud spending, helping businesses stay within budget.
- Security safeguards: Protects data and applications from breaches with built-in security measures.
- Integration capabilities: Connects seamlessly with existing tools and systems, ensuring smooth operations across platforms.
- Workload automation: Automates routine tasks and processes, freeing up time for more strategic activities.
- Customizability: Allows for tailoring of features and settings to match unique business needs and workflows.
- Scalability: Supports growth by accommodating increased workloads and expanding business needs without losing performance.
- Data analytics: Provides insights into cloud usage and performance, helping teams make informed decisions.
- Hybrid cloud support: Manages resources across both private and public clouds, offering flexibility in deployment options.
Benefits
Implementing B2B multi-cloud platform provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Enhanced control: Centralized monitoring gives you a complete view of all cloud services, making it easier to manage and optimize resources.
- Improved compliance: Automated compliance features ensure your operations meet industry standards, reducing the risk of penalties.
- Cost efficiency: Cost management tools help track and reduce unnecessary spending, allowing you to stay within budget.
- Increased security: Built-in security safeguards protect your data and applications from potential threats.
- Operational flexibility: Integration capabilities enable smooth connectivity with existing tools, supporting varied workflows and processes.
- Scalability: The platform grows with your business, handling increased workloads without compromising performance.
- Data-driven insights: Analytics features provide valuable insights into cloud usage, helping you make informed decisions.
Costs & Pricing
Selecting B2B multi-cloud platform requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in B2B multi-cloud platform solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for B2B Multi-Cloud Platform
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic monitoring, limited support, and restricted integrations. |
| Personal Plan | $10-$30/user/month | Centralized monitoring, basic automation, and standard security features. |
| Business Plan | $50-$100/user/month | Advanced automation, enhanced security, and full integration capabilities. |
| Enterprise Plan | $150-$300/user/month | Customizable dashboards, premium support, and comprehensive compliance tools. |
B2B Multicloud Platform FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about B2B multicloud platform:
How does a multicloud strategy help with vendor lock-in?
A multicloud strategy prevents vendor lock-in by allowing you to use multiple cloud providers. This flexibility means you’re not tied to one provider’s services, enabling you to switch or integrate services based on your needs. It helps minimize risk and ensures better negotiation leverage with providers.
What are the security challenges of using a multicloud platform?
Using a multicloud platform can increase security complexity due to multiple environments. You’ll need consistent security policies across clouds, and it’s crucial to manage access controls and data protection. Consider using centralized security tools to maintain oversight and reduce risks.
How can multicloud platforms optimize costs?
Multicloud platforms enable cost optimization by allowing you to choose the most cost-effective services from each provider. You can analyze usage patterns and shift workloads to providers offering better pricing. This flexibility helps you avoid overspending and manage resources efficiently.
What is the difference between multicloud and hybrid cloud?
Multicloud involves using multiple cloud services from different providers for various functions, while hybrid cloud combines private and public clouds to improve flexibility and data deployment. Understanding your business needs will help determine which strategy best fits your operations and goals.
How do multicloud platforms handle data integration?
Data integration in multicloud platforms requires robust APIs and middleware solutions to ensure seamless data flow between clouds. Evaluate platforms for their integration capabilities and support for data consistency. Effective integration helps maintain data accuracy and supports business intelligence.
What’s Next:
If you're in the process of researching B2B multi-cloud platforms, connect with a SoftwareSelect advisor for free recommendations.
You fill out a form and have a quick chat where they get into the specifics of your needs. Then you'll get a shortlist of software to review. They'll even support you through the entire buying process, including price negotiations.
