12 Best Cloud Governance Tools Shortlist
After careful review, I've rounded up the top 12 cloud governance tools that are known to address your cloud security challenges. Use this guide to choose one that fits your needs.
- InsightCloudSec - Best for unified cloud security and compliance
- CloudBolt - Best for rapid deployment in hybrid environments
- CloudCheckr - Best for comprehensive cost and security management
- BMC Helix Cloud Cost - Best for cost efficiency and budget control
- Tenable - Best for vulnerability management in the cloud
- Kyndryl - Best for multi-cloud management and consulting services
- eG Innovations - Best for performance monitoring across cloud platforms
- Flexera Cloud Management - Best for resource optimization and automation
- Cloudability - Best for visibility into cloud spending and usage
- CloudKeeper - Best for simplifying cloud cost management
- VMware Aria Cost - Best for managing hybrid and multi-cloud costs
- IBM Turbonomic - Best for workload automation and real-time analytics
As a dedicated professional in the tech industry, I understand that managing a cloud ecosystem can feel like juggling a dozen balls at once. This is where cloud governance tools, or cloud management software, play a pivotal role. These tools are essentially your all-in solutions, helping you manage various aspects of your cloud operations, from overseeing your public and private clouds to handling SaaS applications, monitoring virtual machines, and managing APIs.
They offer robust application management, smooth cloud migration, and precise metrics to assess your cloud applications' performance. Let's dive into the world of cloud management solutions, and explore the options that could be your game-changer.
What Is a Cloud Governance Tool?
Cloud governance tools are software applications leveraged by organizations to manage, control, and oversee their cloud computing services. These tools are utilized by IT administrators, business leaders, and decision-makers who strive to align their cloud usage with business policies and regulatory requirements.
These tools take a holistic approach to service management, featuring monitoring tools that keep an eye on every aspect of your cloud operations. They facilitate essential functions such as cost management, resource optimization, security, compliance, performance monitoring, and automation. These tools are indispensable for organizations seeking effective management of their cloud environments, ensuring that cloud resources are used efficiently, costs are controlled, and security is maintained.
Overviews of the 12 Best Cloud Governance Tools
1. InsightCloudSec - Best for unified cloud security and compliance
InsightCloudSec operates as a robust cloud security posture management tool, aimed at unifying security and compliance across multiple cloud platforms. It streamlines the task of ensuring your cloud environments align with your security and compliance needs.
Why I Picked InsightCloudSec:
The reason I picked InsightCloudSec lies in its commitment to providing comprehensive cloud security and compliance management. Among the various tools I reviewed, InsightCloudSec stands out due to its unique ability to unify these aspects across disparate cloud environments. This functionality validates it as the best for maintaining consistent security and compliance standards.
Standout Features & Integrations:
InsightCloudSec boasts a diverse range of features, including asset discovery, multi-factor risk identification, and automated remediation capabilities. Additionally, it offers extensive integrations with numerous cloud service providers such as AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure, enabling users to easily maintain their security and compliance standards across various platforms.
Pricing:
Pricing for InsightCloudSec begins at $60/user/month (billed annually). This price includes access to all standard features, with premium features available for additional costs.
Pros:
- Comprehensive cloud security and compliance capabilities
- Extensive integrations with various cloud service providers
- Automated remediation features
Cons:
- High starting price point
- Premium features require additional costs
- Limited accessibility for small businesses with a limited budget
2. CloudBolt - Best for rapid deployment in hybrid environments
CloudBolt is a leading cloud management platform that supports hybrid and multi-cloud deployments. It facilitates rapid provisioning and resource management, making it particularly suitable for organizations in need of swift deployment in hybrid environments.
Why I Picked CloudBolt:
I chose CloudBolt for this list primarily due to its effective deployment capabilities in hybrid environments. In comparing the different tools, CloudBolt's speed and efficiency in managing resources and automating provisioning processes stood out. This makes it a standout choice for organizations that require quick deployment in hybrid cloud settings.
Standout Features & Integrations:
CloudBolt excels with features such as self-service IT, automated provisioning, and resource management. Its service catalog offers predefined templates and blueprints that accelerate the deployment process. CloudBolt supports integrations with a multitude of platforms including AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, and VMware, offering versatility for diverse cloud environments.
Pricing:
Pricing for CloudBolt starts from $75/user/month (billed annually). This pricing includes all standard features with options for additional services and support at higher tiers.
Pros:
- Rapid deployment in hybrid and multi-cloud environments
- Strong integrations with numerous cloud service platforms
- Automated provisioning and resource management capabilities
Cons:
- Higher starting price points may deter small businesses
- Complex features might have a learning curve for new users
- Some advanced features are only available at higher pricing tiers
3. CloudCheckr - Best for comprehensive cost and security management
CloudCheckr is a multi-faceted cloud management platform designed to optimize costs and bolster security. It delivers in-depth visibility into your cloud infrastructure, making it the tool of choice for comprehensive cost and security management.
Why I Picked CloudCheckr:
I selected CloudCheckr based on its dual approach to cost optimization and security management. Its ability to provide a detailed view of cloud expenditure, coupled with robust security protocols, distinguishes it from the rest. The tool's expansive features support the claim of it is the best choice for comprehensive cost and security management.
Standout Features & Integrations:
CloudCheckr is loaded with features like cost allocation, spend optimization, invoicing, and robust security checks. Its capabilities extend to integrations with AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud, facilitating a cohesive cloud governance experience across various platforms.
Pricing:
CloudCheckr's pricing begins from $99/user/month, billed annually. This fee covers basic functionalities, with more advanced features available at higher cost tiers.
Pros:
- Robust cost and security management features
- Comprehensive visibility into cloud expenditure
- Strong integrations with leading cloud platforms
Cons:
- The pricing might be high for smaller organizations
- Some features require a learning curve
- Advanced features are at an additional cost
4. BMC Helix Cloud Cost - Best for cost efficiency and budget control
BMC Helix Cloud Cost is a comprehensive solution that provides efficient cost management across cloud platforms. With its rich capabilities, it's particularly useful for maintaining budget control and improving cost efficiency in the cloud.
Why I Picked BMC Helix Cloud Cost:
I chose BMC Helix Cloud Cost because of its robust features that enable budget control and improve cost efficiency. It stands out with its capacity to integrate with different cloud providers and generate precise analytics, correlating cloud cost with usage.
This characteristic makes it the best fit for organizations aiming to enhance cost efficiency and tighten budget control in their cloud environment.
Standout Features & Integrations:
BMC Helix Cloud Cost comes with features like cloud cost forecasting, budget management, and usage analytics. It offers crucial integrations with popular cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud, allowing users to centralize their cloud cost management.
Pricing:
Pricing for BMC Helix Cloud Cost starts from $25/user/month. The base plan includes access to cost management features and integrations, with additional services at higher price points.
Pros:
- Robust cost management features
- Excellent integration capabilities
- Efficient cloud cost forecasting and budget management
Cons:
- Could be overkill for small organizations
- Some complex features may require time to master
- Higher price tiers for additional services
5. Tenable - Best for vulnerability management in the cloud
Tenable is a robust cybersecurity solution that excels in identifying and managing vulnerabilities in the cloud. Its suite of services is ideal for organizations that require proactive vulnerability detection and threat mitigation strategies, especially in cloud-based environments.
Why I Picked Tenable:
Tenable made it to my selection primarily due to its extensive and industry-leading vulnerability management capabilities. Its prowess in continuous network monitoring, vulnerability assessment, and proactive threat detection sets it apart. Moreover, its ability to manage vulnerabilities effectively in the cloud makes it a top choice for organizations prioritizing cloud security.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Tenable provides a multitude of essential features, including active network scanning, web application scanning, and container security. It integrates easily with a variety of platforms and tools such as ServiceNow, Splunk, and CyberArk, contributing to its robustness as a comprehensive cybersecurity solution.
Pricing:
Tenable's pricing begins at $28/user/month (billed annually), providing access to core vulnerability management features. For more advanced capabilities, higher-priced tiers are available.
Pros:
- Exceptional vulnerability management
- Extensive integrations with other platforms and tools
- Comprehensive network and application scanning features
Cons:
- Pricing could be steep for smaller organizations
- Can be complex to navigate for less tech-savvy users
- Limited functionality at lower price points
6. Kyndryl - Best for multi-cloud management and consulting services
Kyndryl is a distinguished provider of multi-cloud management services, offering comprehensive solutions for cloud infrastructures. It also excels in offering consulting services, assisting organizations in their journey of digital transformation while efficiently managing multiple cloud environments.
Why I Picked Kyndryl:
I chose Kyndryl for this list due to its robust multi-cloud management capabilities and outstanding consulting services. The balance it strikes between technical acuity and personalized guidance is what sets it apart.
It's particularly suitable for businesses that manage complex multi-cloud environments and need expert advice on optimizing their cloud strategies.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Kyndryl offers robust cloud management features, such as automated cloud orchestration, performance optimization, and workload management across multiple cloud platforms. It integrates well with leading cloud platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure, enabling businesses to streamline their operations.
Pricing:
Pricing for Kyndryl's services is not readily available online. It's advised to contact their sales team for a customized quote. Thus, it's a case of "Pricing upon request".
Pros:
- Efficient multi-cloud management capabilities
- Expert consulting services available
- Integrates with multiple leading cloud platforms
Cons:
- Pricing is not transparent
- Might be over-complex for businesses with simpler cloud environments
- Lack of a visible user community for peer support
7. eG Innovations - Best for performance monitoring across cloud platforms
eG Innovations specializes in comprehensive and effective performance monitoring across various cloud platforms. It provides a unified view of the performance of all deployed applications and servers, irrespective of whether they're based on public, private, or hybrid clouds. Its effectiveness in providing actionable insights on performance makes it ideal for this function.
Why I Picked eG Innovations:
I selected eG Innovations because it offers a full-fledged solution for performance monitoring across multiple cloud platforms. Its capability to identify, diagnose, and resolve performance issues quickly differentiates it from other tools.
Given its comprehensive monitoring capabilities, I believe it stands out as the best for managing performance across diverse cloud environments.
Standout Features & Integrations:
eG Innovations has key features like automated and intelligent performance analysis, cross-stack performance visibility, and predictive alerts. It integrates with a wide range of platforms including AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, and many other apps and servers, contributing to its comprehensive coverage of monitoring capabilities.
Pricing:
The pricing for eG Innovations' cloud monitoring solutions isn't publicly available. Therefore, it falls into the "Pricing upon request" category.
Pros:
- Comprehensive performance monitoring across various cloud platforms
- Predictive alerts for proactive problem resolution
- Robust integrations with various applications and servers
Cons:
- Pricing information is not readily available
- Can be complex to configure initially
- Might be too extensive for businesses with less complicated cloud setups
8. Flexera Cloud Management - Best for resource optimization and automation
Flexera Cloud Management offers a powerful suite of tools to optimize resources and automate workflows across various cloud platforms. By enabling organizations to manage and control their cloud resources efficiently, it proves to be an excellent choice for optimizing resources and automating tasks.
Why I Picked Flexera Cloud Management:
I picked Flexera Cloud Management for its robust optimization and automation capabilities. It stands out due to its ability to provide comprehensive visibility into cloud usage and costs, helping organizations streamline their cloud infrastructure.
Therefore, I found it to be the best for resource optimization and automation among cloud management tools.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Flexera Cloud Management offers features like cloud cost management, cloud governance, and cloud automation. It also provides resource optimization insights that can lead to significant cost savings. The tool integrates well with many popular cloud platforms, including AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud, ensuring broad applicability.
Pricing:
Flexera Cloud Management operates under the "Pricing upon request" category as the cost is not publicly disclosed.
Pros:
- Robust resource optimization capabilities
- Effective automation features
- Extensive integrations with popular cloud platforms
Cons:
- Lack of transparent pricing information
- May be complex to set up initially
- Some users may find the interface not as intuitive as competitors
9. Cloudability - Best for visibility into cloud spending and usage
Cloudability is a comprehensive cloud cost management platform that provides a clear view of your cloud spending and usage. It excels in providing organizations with the needed insights to manage and optimize their cloud expenditure effectively, aligning it as the ideal choice for visibility into cloud spending and usage.
Why I Picked Cloudability:
I chose Cloudability for its robust capacity to provide granular visibility into cloud spending. It differentiates itself with its advanced analytics capabilities, which provide in-depth insights into cloud spending patterns.
This, in my opinion, makes it the best tool for tracking and managing cloud costs and usage effectively.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Cloudability comes with powerful features like cost analytics, rightsizing recommendations, and budget alerting. These provide organizations with the necessary tools to keep a close eye on their cloud spending. It integrates with a multitude of cloud platforms like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud, ensuring that you can track spending across different cloud environments.
Pricing:
Pricing for Cloudability is not directly listed on their website, making it fall into the "Pricing upon request" category.
Pros:
- Granular visibility into cloud spending
- Powerful analytics capabilities
- Broad integrations with popular cloud platforms
Cons:
- Pricing information is not transparent
- May have a learning curve for new users
- Some users may find the interface less intuitive than other tools
10. CloudKeeper - Best for simplifying cloud cost management
CloudKeeper is a cloud cost optimization and management platform designed to simplify the process of controlling and reducing cloud expenses. Its user-friendly approach to cost tracking, coupled with insightful recommendations, positions it as the ideal choice for simplifying cloud cost management.
Why I Picked CloudKeeper:
CloudKeeper caught my attention due to its simplicity and efficiency in dealing with the complexities of cloud cost management. I selected it for its comprehensive cost monitoring and optimization features which stood out compared to other tools. Therefore, I determined it to be the best tool for those wanting to simplify their cloud cost management process.
Standout Features & Integrations:
CloudKeeper offers standout features such as cost anomaly detection, budget control, and RI utilization reports. It also provides rightsizing recommendations which are critical in controlling costs. Its integrations are robust and include popular cloud platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure, enabling cost tracking across different platforms.
Pricing:
The pricing for CloudKeeper starts from $150/user/month, making it a premium option in the realm of cloud cost management tools.
Pros:
- Simplified approach to cost management
- Comprehensive cost-tracking features
- Wide range of integrations with cloud platforms
Cons:
- Higher pricing compared to some competitors
- The interface might be overwhelming for beginners
- Customization options could be limited for some users
11. VMware Aria Cost - Best for managing hybrid and multi-cloud costs
VMware Aria Cost is a cloud management tool that offers comprehensive insights into cloud spending across hybrid and multi-cloud environments. Its capabilities in managing cost complexity across various cloud platforms make it an ideal tool for handling hybrid and multi-cloud costs.
Why I Picked VMware Aria Cost:
In the process of selection, I was drawn to VMware Aria Cost due to its prowess in cost management across hybrid and multi-cloud environments. Its distinguishing feature is its ability to manage costs across diverse cloud infrastructures easily, a capability that's not common among many cloud management tools.
Hence, I judged it as the best fit for managing hybrid and multi-cloud costs.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Key features of VMware Aria Cost include cost analysis, budget forecasting, and anomaly detection. It also offers resource optimization recommendations which are essential for cost control.
The tool integrates with major cloud platforms such as AWS, Google Cloud, Microsoft Azure, and VMware's own vSphere platform, ensuring broad coverage.
Pricing:
The pricing details for VMware Aria Cost are not publicly available. Therefore, it would be "Pricing upon request".
Pros:
- Ability to manage costs across diverse cloud infrastructures
- Comprehensive features like cost analysis and budget forecasting
- Broad integrations with major cloud platforms
Cons:
- Pricing details are not transparent
- Might be complex for beginners
- It could take time to fully leverage all features
12. IBM Turbonomic - Best for workload automation and real-time analytics
IBM Turbonomic is a tool that delivers real-time insights and facilitates workload automation in cloud environments. Its capacity to provide continuous performance automation and deliver real-time data analytics, particularly for workloads, makes it an ideal choice for the stated use case.
Why I Picked IBM Turbonomic:
In my selection process, IBM Turbonomic stood out due to its robust workload automation capabilities and real-time data analytics. I picked this tool because of its unique ability to automate workloads and deliver performance insights in real time.
These attributes differentiate it from other cloud management tools, thus making it best suited for workload automation and real-time analytics.
Standout Features & Integrations:
IBM Turbonomic offers features like continuous performance automation, AI-powered decision-making, and real-time analytics. Additionally, it can provide actionable insights to aid capacity planning and demand forecasting. Key integrations include IBM Cloud, AWS, Google Cloud, Microsoft Azure, and on-premises data centers, providing a unified view across hybrid environments.
Pricing:
As of now, IBM Turbonomic doesn't openly disclose its pricing model. Thus, "Pricing upon request" would apply in this context.
Pros:
- Advanced workload automation features
- Real-time data analytics and insights
- Integrations with major cloud platforms and on-premises data centers
Cons:
- Pricing information isn't transparent
- The interface may be complex for beginners
- High-end features might require a steep learning curve
Other Noteworthy Cloud Governance Tools
Below is a list of additional cloud governance tools that I shortlisted but did not make it to the top 12. Definitely worth checking them out.
- Terraform Enterprise - Good for infrastructure as code and multi-cloud provisioning
- Morpheus Data - Good for DevOps teams seeking integrated application lifecycle management
- ServiceNow Enterprise IT Operations Management - Good for large organizations needing broad IT operations management
- Nutanix Cloud Manager - Good for managing hybrid clouds with a single platform
- Exponential-e - Good for businesses seeking a comprehensive cloud services platform
- Platform9 - Good for deploying and managing Kubernetes at scale
- Cisco Workload Optimization Manager (CWOM) - Good for real-time workload optimization across hybrid IT
- Tanzu Application Service Observability - Good for visibility into application performance in multi-cloud environments
- Centilytics - Good for granular cloud cost allocation and optimization
- Oomnitza - Good for IT asset tracking and lifecycle management
Selection Criteria for Choosing Cloud Governance Tools
After researching and trying out numerous cloud management tools, I've narrowed down the selection based on specific criteria that are essential when choosing such software. Throughout this process, I tested each of these tools to understand their core functionality, key features, and usability.
I was particularly looking for effective cloud cost management and streamlined multi-cloud management functionalities.
Core Functionality
- Efficient Cloud Cost Management: The tool should provide clear visibility into cloud expenses and aid in forecasting and optimizing future costs.
- Support for Multi-cloud Environments: The tool must handle multiple cloud platforms easily, enabling users to manage resources across all their clouds from one place.
- Real-time Monitoring and Alerting: To ensure optimal performance and availability, the tool should offer real-time monitoring with alerting capabilities.
- Automation: The tool should enable automation of routine tasks to increase productivity and efficiency.
Key Features
- Comprehensive Analytics: In-depth analytics to aid decision-making and provide actionable insights into resource utilization and cloud spending.
- Integration Capabilities: The tool should easily integrate with other business tools, enhancing the value they deliver.
- Security Features: As cloud management can entail sensitive data, robust security features are a must-have.
- Customization: The ability to customize dashboards, reports, and alerts to suit your organization's specific needs.
Usability
- User-friendly Interface: Given the complexity of managing cloud resources, the tool should feature a clear, intuitive interface that simplifies tasks.
- Robust Onboarding and Support: The platform should provide comprehensive onboarding resources, including training videos, tutorials, and documentation. Responsive customer support is crucial for resolving technical issues.
- Accessibility: Tools should be accessible from various devices, and it should be easy to grant and manage user permissions.
- Scalability: The tool needs to be able to grow with your business, handling increased workloads and additional users without compromising performance.
Most Common Questions Regarding Cloud Governance Tools (FAQs)
What are the benefits of using cloud governance tools?
Using cloud governance tools provides several benefits, including:
- Cost management: They help businesses monitor and control their cloud spend, leading to significant cost savings.
- Enhanced security: These tools offer robust security features, helping to protect your data and maintain compliance with regulatory standards.
- Improved efficiency: Cloud governance tools enable the automation of routine tasks, reducing manual effort and the likelihood of human error.
- Better resource utilization: They provide insights into resource usage, helping you optimize resource allocation and avoid wastage.
- Multi-cloud management: If your organization uses multiple cloud platforms, these tools can manage resources across all of them from a single dashboard.
How much do cloud governance tools typically cost?
The pricing for cloud governance tools varies greatly based on their features, capabilities, and the size of your organization. Some tools offer pricing on a per-user basis, while others may charge based on the number of cloud resources managed.
Can you explain the pricing models of cloud governance tools?
Most cloud governance tools follow either a subscription-based or usage-based pricing model. Subscription-based models charge a fixed monthly or yearly fee, providing access to a set of features. On the other hand, usage-based models charge according to the amount of resources managed or transactions performed in the tool.
What is the typical range of pricing for cloud governance tools?
While pricing can vary, most cloud governance tools cost anywhere from $20 to $100 per user per month for basic to intermediate features. Enterprise-level tools with advanced features and customizations can cost several hundred dollars per user per month.
Which are some of the cheapest and most expensive cloud governance tools?
On the lower end of the scale, Cloud Custodian offers an open-source solution for managing AWS, Azure, and GCP. Nutanix Beam, starting from around $20/user/month, is another affordable option.
On the expensive side, tools like VMware CloudHealth and Flexera Cloud Management offer advanced capabilities and hence have higher pricing, often going up to hundreds of dollars per user per month.
Are there any free cloud governance tools?
Yes, some cloud governance tools offer a free tier or a free trial. For example, Cloud Custodian is a completely free, open-source tool. Others like CloudCheckr and Cloudability offer free trials, giving you a chance to test the tool before committing to a paid plan.
Can cloud governance tools help with compliance?
Absolutely. One key feature of many cloud governance tools is their ability to help businesses maintain compliance with various regulations such as GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI-DSS. They can track compliance across multiple cloud platforms and alert you to any potential issues.
What is multi-cloud management in cloud governance tools?
Multi-cloud management refers to the ability of a cloud governance tool to manage multiple cloud environments — like AWS, Google Cloud, Azure, etc. — from a single interface. This feature is essential for businesses using services from multiple cloud providers, as it helps centralize governance and simplify cloud management.
Other Cloud Management Software Reviews
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Summary
In this guide, I've delved into the world of cloud governance tools, offering insights into their importance, functionality, and how to choose the right one for your specific needs. It's clear that these tools play a pivotal role in helping organizations manage and optimize their cloud environments, control costs, improve security, and ensure compliance.
Key takeaways:
- Understand your Specific Needs: Before settling on a tool, evaluate your business needs. Are you primarily looking to control costs, enhance security, manage multiple cloud platforms, or all of these? The answer will guide your selection process.
- Consider Usability and Support: The user interface and ease of use are vital. A tool might have the best features but if it’s not intuitive, it could lead to more problems than it solves. Also, look for robust customer support to assist you in addressing any issues.
- Keep an Eye on the Cost: While many cloud governance tools offer similar features, their pricing can vary significantly. Opt for a tool that offers the features you need at a price your organization can afford. Free trials can be a great way to test out a tool's features before committing to a purchase.
What Do You Think?
I hope this guide provides useful insights to aid in your quest for the perfect cloud governance tool. However, it's also essential to remember that the technology landscape is continuously evolving, with new tools and features being introduced regularly.
So, what do you think? Are there any tools that you believe should be on this list? If so, please don't hesitate to share your recommendations and experiences in the comments below. Your input could be invaluable to others in their search for the best cloud governance tools.