The 19 Best Cloud Management Tool Of 2025
Best Cloud Management Tool Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 19 tools reviewed.
Navigating cloud technologies, especially in public cloud environments, can be complex. Cloud management tools are your allies, acting as a cloud orchestrator to streamline workflows, interface with APIs, and manage the infrastructure of your data centers. I understand the need for robust tools, particularly when you're all-in on cloud deployments.
The following list of tools will simplify allocation, ensure authentication, and provide observability in your systems. From my perspective, the best cloud management software even tackles the intricacies of managing hypervisors, cloud-native applications, and lifecycle management. They give you a clear line of sight into your infrastructure management, easing the critical pain points. So, let's dive into these options and find a management service that best aligns with your needs.
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Best Cloud Management Tool Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top cloud management tools selections to help you find the best one for your budget and business needs.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for hardware and software integration | Not available | From $50/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 2 | Best for enterprise-scale operations | Free plan available | From $10/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 3 | Best for robust database management | Not available | From $25/user/month | Website | |
| 4 | Best for simplified hybrid cloud automation | Free plan available | From $708.33/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 5 | Best for customizable open-source cloud infrastructure | Free plan available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 6 | Best for software asset management | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 7 | Best for multi-cloud and hybrid IT environments | Not available | From $15/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 8 | Best for license compliance management | Not available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 9 | Best for multi-factor cloud security | Not available | From $16/user/month | Website | |
| 10 | Best for comprehensive cost optimization | Free trial available | From $99/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
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Best Cloud Management Tool Reviews
Below are my detailed summaries of the best cloud management tools 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.
Cisco Intersight is a cloud-based systems management platform that offers hardware and software integration in complex IT environments. The tool simplifies IT operations by providing comprehensive visibility and control across both on-premises and cloud resources, which makes it excellent for hardware and software integration.
Why I Picked Cisco Intersight:
Among various contenders, I picked Cisco Intersight for its excellent integration capabilities across hardware and software. Its ability to seamlessly unify the management of physical and virtual resources differentiates it from others. In my judgment, Cisco Intersight stands out as the best tool for integrating hardware and software in a diverse IT ecosystem.
Standout features & integrations:
Cisco Intersight boasts several features, such as predictive analytics, automated resource management, and policy-driven infrastructure provisioning. In terms of integrations, it works well with a variety of Cisco hardware and virtualization platforms like VMware, Hyper-V, and Red Hat, supporting consistent management across different environments.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Policy-driven resource provisioning
- Predictive analytics for proactive issue resolution
- Comprehensive hardware and software integration
Cons:
- Higher cost than some other cloud management platforms
- Mostly focused on Cisco hardware environments
- Complexity may be challenging for smaller teams
IBM Cloud is a suite of cloud computing services from IBM, one of the technology industry's stalwarts. Designed to support apps at a large scale, it's my top pick for enterprises that have complex, expansive operations and need robust, reliable infrastructure.
Why I Picked IBM Cloud:
I selected IBM Cloud for its extensive capabilities and proven track record. It stands out in handling enterprise-scale operations due to its robust infrastructure and the breadth of its service offerings. I judged it as best for enterprise operations due to its ability to handle high demand levels and its flexible, customizable solutions.
Standout features & integrations:
IBM Cloud provides a range of solutions, including IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS, which allows businesses to tailor the service to their needs. Its AI-powered capabilities, such as IBM Watson, offer cutting-edge functionality. The platform also integrates well with various IBM services and third-party applications, offering a well-rounded ecosystem.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong AI and machine learning capabilities
- Wide range of service offerings
- Robust and scalable infrastructure
Cons:
- The pricing model can be unclear
- Customer service could be improved
- Can be complex to navigate
Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) brings Oracle's unparalleled database expertise to the cloud. With a wide array of cloud services and solutions, OCI makes a great choice for organizations prioritizing solid database management.
Why I Picked Oracle Cloud Infrastructure:
I chose Oracle Cloud Infrastructure for its exceptional database management capabilities. It's evident that Oracle's wealth of experience in database technology is embedded into OCI, making it stand out among cloud providers. Furthermore, OCI's emphasis on database management solidifies my rationale that it is best for robust database solutions.
Standout features & integrations:
Oracle Cloud Infrastructure provides high-performance computing capabilities and superior networking speed. Its Autonomous Database stands out for self-repairing and auto-tuning features. OCI also integrates seamlessly with various Oracle applications, third-party software, and numerous developer tools, providing a comprehensive cloud solution.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Rich ecosystem of integrations
- High-performance computing
- Unparalleled database management capabilities
Cons:
- Limited geographic coverage in comparison to other cloud providers
- Pricing can be complex and less transparent
- Steep learning curve for newcomers
CloudBolt is a hybrid cloud management platform that enables enterprises to achieve operational efficiency by automating the deployment and management of resources across hybrid cloud environments. Its capacity to simplify complex cloud automation tasks makes it ideal for hybrid cloud automation.
Why I Picked CloudBolt:
In the process of selecting the most suitable tools, I gravitated towards CloudBolt because of its streamlined approach to hybrid cloud automation. It stands out from the competition by offering extensive cloud management features in one platform. In light of its capabilities to simplify hybrid cloud automation, I determined that CloudBolt was best suited for this task.
Standout features & integrations:
CloudBolt provides features such as self-service IT, resource optimization, and hybrid cloud cost control. It integrates with an array of technologies, including but not limited to VMware, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud, and Kubernetes. This wide range of integrations supports seamless management across multiple platforms.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Wide range of integrations with major cloud providers
- Comprehensive suite of cloud management features
- Simplifies complex hybrid cloud automation tasks
Cons:
- Some advanced features require additional modules
- Pricing might be on the higher side for smaller organizations
- Could be complex to set up
OpenStack is an open-source cloud computing platform designed to provide flexible and scalable infrastructure as a service (IaaS) solutions. It allows organizations to create and manage large networks of virtual machines, making it an excellent choice for those seeking customizable, open-source cloud infrastructure.
Why I Picked OpenStack:
In my selection process, OpenStack emerged as a unique contender due to its open-source nature and high level of customizability. I judged that OpenStack offers a distinct advantage, especially for organizations that have specific requirements and wish to have full control over their cloud infrastructure. I think it's the best tool for customizable, open-source cloud infrastructure due to its expansive features and community support.
Standout features & integrations:
OpenStack offers a robust set of features including broad networking capabilities, object and block storage, and identity services. It has native integrations with a range of other open-source projects, such as Kubernetes and Ceph, further extending its functionality.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong community support
- Broad set of features, including storage and networking capabilities
- High level of customizability
Cons:
- Documentation could be improved for ease of understanding
- May require significant resources for maintenance and support
- Implementation can be complex and requires expertise
Flexera is a leading cloud management platform that is notably strong in software asset management. It provides critical insights and facilitates informed decisions about software licenses, renewals, and expenditures, making it ideal for organizations that prioritize software asset governance.
Why I Picked Flexera:
I chose Flexera for its superior software asset management capabilities. The tool tracks software licenses, ensures compliance, and manages software renewals. In my evaluation, it distinguished itself as the best option for businesses that want to control and optimize their software assets effectively.
Standout features & integrations:
The tool offers a full suite of IT asset management features, including license optimization and IT spending transparency. It integrates with multiple cloud providers and platforms such as AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, and VMware, simplifying management across various environments.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Excellent license optimization features
- Broad cloud provider integration
- Strong software asset management
Cons:
- Pricing may be high for small businesses
- Customer support can improve
- Can be complex for new users
Morpheus is a comprehensive cloud management tool, well-suited for managing hybrid and multi-cloud infrastructures. It provides robust orchestration features that offer seamless control across different cloud platforms, earning its place as a leading choice for complex IT environments.
Why I Picked Morpheus:
I selected Morpheus because of its strong performance in multi-cloud and hybrid environments. Its exceptional capability to manage, orchestrate, and automate across numerous cloud platforms set it apart during my evaluation. In my view, Morpheus fits best for organizations grappling with the complexities of multi-cloud and hybrid IT landscapes.
Standout features & integrations:
Morpheus excels with its extensive suite of cloud management features, including orchestration, automation, and provisioning. Its most notable integrations include those with AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, and VMware, offering wide-ranging compatibility and reducing the challenges of multi-cloud management.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Powerful automation and orchestration features
- Strong integration with major cloud providers
- Extensive multi-cloud management capabilities
Cons:
- Initial setup might require technical expertise
- Pricing could be prohibitive for smaller businesses
- Steeper learning curve for new users
Snow Software is a leading cloud management solution with a specific focus on license compliance. The platform gives organizations the ability to monitor, manage, and optimize their software licenses, making it an ideal choice for those seeking strong compliance management capabilities.
Why I Picked Snow Software:
Among the tools I assessed, I found Snow Software particularly stands out for its dedicated software license management features. Its strength lies in ensuring that organizations stay compliant while managing their cloud resources. I am confident that Snow Software is the best choice for those in need of robust license compliance management.
Standout features & integrations:
Snow Software is lauded for its comprehensive software license tracking, offering features such as license overuse alerts, automated optimization suggestions, and compliance risk indicators. Key integrations include compatibility with major software vendors like Microsoft, Adobe, and IBM, facilitating smooth license management across these platforms.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive visibility into software usage
- Integrations with major software vendors
- Excellent software license compliance features
Cons:
- Pricing may be higher compared to simpler solutions
- May be overkill for smaller organizations
- Potential for complexity in large-scale deployments
CloudAware is a comprehensive cloud management platform with a strong focus on providing robust, multi-factor cloud security solutions. Its functionality ranges from cloud cost management to security, compliance, and configuration analysis. It's especially effective for organizations seeking multi-factor security for their cloud infrastructure.
Why I Picked CloudAware:
I picked CloudAware for this list based on my comparative analysis of multiple cloud management platforms. Its dedicated security components and the wide range of cloud services it supports were the main factors that distinguished CloudAware. In my opinion, it's the superior choice for organizations needing robust, multi-factor cloud security.
Standout features & integrations:
CloudAware offers features like CloudTrail log analysis, multi-factor security checks, and asset tracking. It also includes integrations with a range of platforms, including Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure, allowing it to provide unified security management across multiple cloud environments.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Provides CloudTrail log analysis and asset tracking
- Wide range of integrations for unified security management
- Comprehensive multi-factor security checks
Cons:
- Support response times could be improved
- The initial setup might be complex for some users
- The user interface could be more intuitive
CloudCheckr is a multi-functional cloud management platform with a focus on cloud cost optimization. Its capacity to provide detailed insights into cloud spending makes it an exceptional choice for businesses seeking to monitor and control their cloud expenditures effectively.
Why I Picked CloudCheckr:
When I decided to include CloudCheckr in my selection, the tool's robust cost optimization and expenditure visibility features particularly stood out. In my comparison, it clearly excelled in providing comprehensive cost management, making it my top pick for businesses that want to understand and optimize their cloud spending effectively.
Standout features & integrations:
CloudCheckr delivers deep cost and usage reporting features, making it easier to track and optimize expenditures. The platform offers security and compliance functionality as well, providing added value. It integrates with various major cloud providers like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud, enabling users to manage all their cloud assets in one place.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Broad cloud provider integration
- Effective security and compliance features
- Detailed cost and usage reports
Cons:
- Limited customer support hours
- Some features require technical expertise
- Can be complex to set up
Other Cloud Management Tools
Below is a list of additional cloud management tools that I shortlisted but did not make it to the top. Definitely worth checking them out.
- Google Cloud
Unified multi-cloud management
- Apptio Cloudability
For granular cloud spending analysis
- ManageEngine Applications Manager
For real-time application performance monitoring
- Nutanix
Good for automating and orchestrating multi-cloud environments
- Turbonomic
Good for optimizing cloud performance and cost efficiency
- Abiquo
Good for multi-cloud management and flexibility
- Dell Technologies Cloud
Good for integrating public and private cloud infrastructure
- Red Hat
Good for deploying and managing containerized applications
- Densify
Good for intelligent cloud resource management
Cloud Management Tools Selection Criteria
When selecting the best cloud management tools to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like resource allocation and security challenges. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
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Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Manage cloud resources
- Monitor performance
- Automate tasks
- Ensure security compliance
- Provide cost analysis
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- AI-driven insights
- Customizable dashboards
- Multi-cloud support
- Real-time analytics
- Advanced security options
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive interface
- Easy navigation
- Customization options
- User-friendly design
- Minimal learning curve
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Access to webinars
- Templates for quick setup
- Responsive chatbots
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- 24/7 availability
- Multiple support channels
- Response time
- Quality of documentation
- Availability of a knowledge base
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Pricing transparency
- Competitive pricing
- Feature-to-price ratio
- Flexible pricing plans
- Free trial availability
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 mentioned pros and cons
- Frequency of updates
- Customer loyalty
- Feedback on customer service
How to Choose Cloud Management Tools
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. 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 | Can the tool grow with your business? Look for options that support increasing workloads without a hitch. Consider future needs and potential expansion. |
| Integrations | Does it work with your current software stack? Check for compatibility with existing tools to avoid disruption and ensure seamless data flow. |
| Customizability | Can you tailor the tool to fit your processes? Evaluate how flexible the software is in terms of settings and configurations to match your team's workflow. |
| Ease of use | Is the interface intuitive for your team? Prioritize tools with simple, user-friendly designs to minimize training time and boost productivity. |
| Implementation and onboarding | How long will it take to get up and running? Assess the complexity of setup and the resources needed for a smooth transition. Look for available support materials. |
| Cost | Does the pricing fit your budget? Compare the cost against features offered and watch out for hidden fees or unexpected charges. |
| Security safeguards | Are there strong security measures in place? Ensure the tool meets your security standards, with data encryption and regular security updates. |
What Are Cloud Management Tools?
Cloud management tools are software solutions that help businesses manage, monitor, and optimize their cloud resources. IT professionals, system administrators, and DevOps teams generally use these tools to improve efficiency and control over cloud environments, often complementing SaaS management platforms for comprehensive software oversight. Automation, monitoring, and integration capabilities help with resource allocation, performance tracking, and security compliance. Overall, these tools offer valuable support in managing complex cloud infrastructures efficiently.
Features
When selecting cloud management tools, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- Automation: Automates routine tasks to save time and reduce human error in managing cloud resources.
- Performance monitoring: Tracks the health and performance of cloud services to ensure optimal operation.
- Cost analysis: Provides insights into cloud spending to help manage budgets and avoid unexpected charges.
- Security compliance: Ensures that cloud environments meet industry standards and regulatory requirements.
- Resource allocation: Manages and optimizes the distribution of resources across cloud environments.
- Integration support: Connects seamlessly with existing software and tools to maintain workflow continuity.
- Customizable dashboards: Offers tailored views and data visualization to fit specific user needs and preferences.
- Scalability: Supports growth by accommodating increasing workloads without interruption.
- User-friendly interface: Provides an intuitive design that simplifies navigation and usage for all team members.
- Real-time analytics: Delivers up-to-date insights for proactive decision-making and issue resolution.
Benefits
Implementing cloud management tools provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Improved efficiency: Automation and integration features help reduce manual work and speed up processes.
- Cost savings: Cost analysis tools provide insights to manage and optimize cloud spending effectively.
- Enhanced security: Security compliance features ensure your cloud environment meets industry standards, protecting your data.
- Better resource management: Resource allocation tools optimize the use of cloud resources to prevent waste and ensure availability.
- Informed decision-making: Real-time analytics offer up-to-date information for making proactive business decisions.
- Scalability support: Scalability features ensure your cloud infrastructure can grow with your business without disruption.
- User accessibility: A user-friendly interface makes it easy for team members to navigate and use the tools efficiently.
Costs & Pricing
Selecting cloud management tools 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 cloud management tools solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for Cloud Management Tools
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic monitoring, limited automation, and community support. |
| Personal Plan | $5-$25/user/month | Performance monitoring, basic integrations, and email support. |
| Business Plan | $30-$60/user/month | Advanced analytics, custom dashboards, and phone support. |
| Enterprise Plan | $100-$200/user/month | Full automation, dedicated account manager, and 24/7 premium support. |
Cloud Management Tools FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about test management software:
How can teams encourage adoption of a new cloud management tool internally?
Involve key stakeholders early and highlight how the tool solves existing pain points. Provide clear onboarding materials and short training sessions tailored to different roles. Recognizing early successes can also motivate teams to use the platform consistently.
How can a business balance automation with manual control?
Use automation for repetitive tasks like provisioning, monitoring, and scaling while keeping human oversight for governance and exceptions. Defining approval workflows ensures critical actions still require validation. This balance improves efficiency without compromising control or security.
What challenges do organizations commonly face with cloud management tools?
Complex onboarding, unclear ownership, and lack of standardization are common issues. Integrations with legacy systems can also slow adoption if not planned properly. Addressing these early with clear governance and automation strategies leads to smoother implementation.
What KPIs indicate that a cloud management tool is performing well?
Monitor metrics such as deployment time, cost optimization rate, and incident response speed. A good tool should reduce manual effort while improving compliance and visibility across clouds. Regular reviews help ensure that business goals remain aligned with the tool’s performance.
What’s Next:
If you're in the process of researching cloud management tools, 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.