Best Hybrid Cloud Software Shortlist
Here’s my shortlist of the best hybrid cloud software:
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
Navigating the world of hybrid cloud software can be tough. You need solutions that align with your team's needs and address tech challenges like scalability, security, and integration.
In my experience testing software, hybrid cloud solutions can bridge the gap between on-premises and cloud environments, giving you flexibility without sacrificing control. I aim to provide you with an unbiased review of the top hybrid cloud software options.
You’ll find insights on features, benefits, and potential downsides to help you make an informed decision. Let's explore the best options available and find the right fit for your team.
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Best Hybrid Cloud Software Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top hybrid cloud software 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 management | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
2 | Best for cloud backup solutions | 30-day free trial | From $505/year | Website | |
3 | Best for managed services | Not available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
4 | Best for global file system | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
5 | Best for open-source solutions | 60-day free trial | Pricing upon request | Website | |
6 | Best for IT infrastructure services | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
7 | Best for automated provisioning | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
8 | Best for hybrid cloud management | Free plan available | From $708.33/month (billed annually) | Website | |
9 | Best for enterprise solutions | 30-day free trial | Pricing upon request | Website | |
10 | Best for cloud-building tools | Not available | From $15/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
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Best Hybrid Cloud Software Reviews
Below are my detailed summaries of the best hybrid cloud software 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.
Nutanix is a hybrid cloud solution designed for enterprises looking to manage applications and data across on-premises, edge, and cloud environments. It primarily serves IT departments, offering key functions like workload management, cost efficiency, and data security.
Why I picked Nutanix: This tool excels in multi-cloud management with features like unified management and workload portability. Nutanix Cloud Manager (NCM) simplifies the process by allowing your team to manage resources from a single interface. Their platform also supports a variety of workloads, including enterprise apps and cloud-native applications. Nutanix Cloud Clusters (NC2) further ease hybrid cloud deployment, ensuring your data and applications are secure and cost-effective.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include workload portability, which lets you move applications easily across environments. Unified management helps your team oversee operations from a single dashboard. Nutanix also offers integrated ransomware protection to keep your data safe.
Integrations include AWS, Microsoft Azure, VMware, Google Cloud Platform, ServiceNow, Splunk, Red Hat OpenShift, Citrix, SAP, and Oracle.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Unified management dashboard
- Efficient multi-cloud management
- Strong workload portability
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- Interface can be overwhelming
Veeam is a cloud backup and recovery solution tailored for businesses needing reliable data protection and disaster recovery. It primarily serves IT departments by ensuring data availability and minimizing downtime.
Why I picked Veeam: This tool is known for its efficient backup solutions, offering features like instant VM recovery to reduce recovery time. It provides reliable data protection with built-in ransomware protection. Veeam also supports various environments, making it flexible for different IT setups. Its centralized management console simplifies backup administration for your team.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include instant VM recovery, which reduces downtime and keeps your operations running smoothly. Built-in ransomware protection ensures your data stays secure. Veeam also offers a centralized management console, making backup administration straightforward for your team.
Integrations include Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform, IBM Cloud, VMware, Nutanix, Microsoft Hyper-V, Oracle, SAP, and NetApp.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Built-in ransomware protection
- Efficient backup solutions
- Supports various environments
Cons:
- Complex initial setup
- Can be resource-intensive
Rackspace Hybrid Cloud offers a managed cloud solution tailored for businesses that require expert support in managing their cloud environments. It serves companies by providing infrastructure management, security, and compliance services.
Why I picked Rackspace Hybrid Cloud: This tool excels in managed services, providing 24/7 expert support to ensure your cloud operations run smoothly. Rackspace offers a flexible approach, allowing you to choose the level of management that suits your needs. Their security and compliance services help protect data and meet industry standards. The platform's ability to integrate with various cloud providers enhances its versatility.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include 24/7 expert support, ensuring your cloud operations are always monitored and maintained. Rackspace provides flexible management options, allowing you to tailor services to your needs. The platform also offers robust security and compliance services to protect your data and meet industry standards.
Integrations include Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform, VMware, OpenStack, Kubernetes, Red Hat, Salesforce, SAP, and Oracle.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Flexible management options
- Expert support available 24/7
- Strong security and compliance
Cons:
- May require technical expertise
- Complex setup process
Panzura is a cloud file storage solution designed for enterprises that need to manage and collaborate on large datasets across multiple locations. It primarily serves IT teams by providing a unified file system for efficient data management and collaboration.
Why I picked Panzura: This platform is distinguished by its global file system, which ensures data consistency across all locations. Panzura offers file locking to prevent conflicts during collaboration. Its deduplication and compression features optimize storage use, saving costs. The platform's ability to integrate with various cloud providers enhances its versatility for enterprises.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include advanced file locking, which prevents conflicts during collaboration. Deduplication and compression features help your team optimize storage usage. Panzura also provides real-time data consistency across all locations, ensuring efficient data management.
Integrations include Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform, IBM Cloud, VMware, Nutanix, NetApp, Dell EMC, Veeam, and Citrix.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Supports large datasets
- Optimizes storage use
- Ensures data consistency
Cons:
- Requires technical expertise
- Complex implementation process
Red Hat Hybrid Cloud is a cloud management platform designed for enterprises seeking open-source solutions for their IT infrastructure. It caters to businesses by offering tools for application development, deployment, and management across hybrid environments.
Why I picked Red Hat Hybrid Cloud: This platform is recognized for its open-source solutions, providing flexibility and customization for your IT needs. Red Hat OpenShift enables container orchestration, allowing your team to deploy applications efficiently. The platform's automation capabilities help streamline operations and reduce manual tasks. Its strong community support ensures you have access to resources and expertise when needed.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include container orchestration, which helps your team manage and deploy applications smoothly. Automation capabilities streamline operations, reducing the need for manual intervention. The platform also provides strong community support, offering resources and expertise to assist with your IT projects.
Integrations include Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform, IBM Cloud, VMware, SAP, Oracle, Salesforce, Docker, and Kubernetes.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Efficient container orchestration
- Flexible open-source solutions
- Strong community support
Cons:
- Resource-intensive setup
- Can be complex to implement
Kyndryl provides a hybrid cloud service designed for enterprises requiring comprehensive IT infrastructure management. It serves large organizations by offering services like cloud migration, infrastructure modernization, and security management.
Why I picked Kyndryl: This platform excels in IT infrastructure services, offering cloud migration solutions to streamline your transition to the cloud. Kyndryl's infrastructure modernization helps your team optimize existing systems for better performance. Their security management services ensure your data remains protected. The platform's focus on large-scale enterprise needs makes it suitable for complex IT environments.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include cloud migration services that help your team transition smoothly to the cloud. Infrastructure modernization ensures your existing systems are optimized for performance. Kyndryl also offers security management services to keep your data protected.
Integrations include Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform, IBM Cloud, VMware, Red Hat, SAP, Oracle, Salesforce, and ServiceNow.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Optimizes existing systems
- Facilitates smooth cloud migration
- Comprehensive IT infrastructure management
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- Requires technical expertise
Embotics is a hybrid cloud management platform designed for IT teams seeking efficient resource provisioning and cost management. It serves businesses by automating cloud operations and enhancing resource utilization.
Why I picked Embotics: This tool excels in automated provisioning, enabling your team to deploy resources quickly and efficiently. It offers features like self-service portals, which empower users to manage their own resources. Embotics also provides detailed cost analytics to help you optimize cloud spending. The platform's policy-based governance ensures compliance with organizational standards.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a self-service portal that gives users control over their resources. Cost analytics provide insights into your cloud spending, allowing for better budget management. The platform also offers policy-based governance to maintain compliance with your organization's standards.
Integrations include VMware, Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud Platform, IBM Cloud, Red Hat OpenShift, ServiceNow, Puppet, Chef, and Ansible.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Detailed cost analytics
- Fast resource provisioning
- Self-service access for users
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- Can be resource-intensive
CloudBolt stands as a testament to the future of cloud management, offering solutions that simplify complex infrastructure tasks. Its prowess in automated provisioning makes it an invaluable asset for businesses looking to expedite their cloud setups without compromising on precision.
Why I Picked CloudBolt:
In the landscape of cloud tools, my selection process was rigorous. I chose CloudBolt for its clear distinction in automating provisioning tasks, a crucial aspect often overlooked by other platforms. My reasoning for stamping it 'best for automated provisioning' was its innate capability to reduce human error and speed up cloud setup processes, making it a game-changer.
Standout Features and Integrations:
Features include orchestration and automation functionalities, allowing users to deploy and manage IT resources across varied environments. Its resource discovery feature is particularly impressive, mapping and syncing resources across platforms.
Integrations include popular cloud providers, ITSM tools, and configuration management databases.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Wide range of integrations with IT tools and cloud services
- Resource discovery ensures sync across platforms
- Strong automation and orchestration capabilities
Cons:
- Not the most intuitive interface
- Might be overwhelming for cloud beginners
Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) is a hybrid cloud platform tailored for enterprises that need reliable cloud services for data management and application deployment. It serves large organizations by providing scalable computing resources and advanced security features.
Why I picked Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI): This platform is ideal for enterprise solutions with its high-performance computing capabilities. OCI’s network performance ensures low latency, which is crucial for data-intensive applications. The platform's focus on security includes features like isolated network virtualization. Its support for Oracle applications makes it a strong choice for businesses already invested in Oracle products.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include flexible compute options, allowing your team to customize resources based on needs. OCI offers autonomous database services for efficient data management. The platform also provides built-in security tools to protect your data and applications.
Integrations include Microsoft Azure, VMware, SAP, Microsoft SQL Server, MongoDB, Redis, Kubernetes, Docker, Jenkins, and Apache Kafka.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Strong security features
- Low latency network
- High-performance computing
Cons:
- Requires technical expertise
- Complex setup process
Morpheus presents itself as a robust platform that aids organizations in both developing and managing multi-cloud and containerized applications. Its prowess in delivering a variety of tools for building cloud infrastructure makes it a solid choice for diverse cloud requirements.
Why I Picked Morpheus:
My journey in selecting the right tools led me to Morpheus due to its comprehensive set of features. What makes Morpheus distinct is its versatility in catering to various cloud-building needs. The reason I find it to be the 'best for diverse cloud-building tools' is its broad range of functionalities designed to cater to different cloud structures.
Standout Features and Integrations:
Features include self-service provisioning which allows organizations to deploy applications faster. Their unified operations and lifecycle management keep things streamlined.
Integrations include numerous third-party tools, from DevOps to IT operations.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Extensive integration capabilities
- Unified operations simplify cloud management
- A comprehensive set of cloud-building tools
Cons:
- Certain features could be more intuitive
- Might come with a steep learning curve for some
Other Hybrid Cloud Software
Here are some additional hybrid cloud software options that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:
- Google Anthos
For Kubernetes integration
- Hewlett Packard Enterprise
For data center solutions
- Cisco CloudCenter
For application lifecycle management
- Azure Storage Explorer
For storage management
- AWS Storage Gateway
For on-premises storage integration
- Flexiant Cloud Orchestrator
For cloud orchestration
- Cisco Hybrid Cloud
For network integration
- Azure Stack
For hybrid cloud deployment
- Platform9
For open-source cloud management
- Google Cloud Storage
For scalable storage options
- Leaseweb
For global cloud solutions
- IBM Storage Suite for IBM Cloud Paks
For container storage
- Portworx Enterprise
For container data services
- VMware vSAN
For hyper-converged infrastructure
Hybrid Cloud Software Selection Criteria
When selecting the best hybrid cloud software to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like data security and integration complexity. 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 hybrid cloud environments
- Enable data migration
- Ensure data security
- Provide workload balancing
- Support multi-cloud solutions
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- Advanced analytics tools
- Automated compliance checks
- Customizable dashboards
- Integrated cost management
- AI-driven optimization
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive interface design
- Easy navigation
- Minimal learning curve
- Clear documentation
- Responsive performance
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Accessible templates
- Supportive webinars
- Helpful chatbots
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
- Fast response times
- Knowledgeable staff
- Comprehensive FAQs
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Competitive pricing
- Feature-to-price ratio
- Flexible pricing plans
- Cost transparency
- Discounts for annual billing
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Overall satisfaction ratings
- Commonly reported issues
- Praise for specific features
- Frequency of positive feedback
- Trends in customer feedback
How to Choose Hybrid Cloud Software
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 | Ensure the software can grow with your business needs, handling increased data and workloads. |
Integrations | Check compatibility with existing tools and platforms your team already uses to avoid disruptions. |
Customizability | Look for features you can tailor to fit your specific business processes and workflows. |
Ease of Use | Evaluate how intuitive the interface is and how quickly your team can learn to use it. |
Budget | Consider the total cost, including hidden fees, and ensure it aligns with your financial plan. |
Security Safeguards | Verify the software provides strong data protection measures to keep your information safe. |
Support | Assess the availability and quality of customer support for assistance when needed. |
Performance | Ensure the software delivers fast and reliable performance to meet operational demands. |
Trends in Hybrid Cloud Software
In my research, I sourced countless product updates, press releases, and release logs from different hybrid cloud software vendors. Here are some of the emerging trends I’m keeping an eye on:
- AI-Powered Analytics: Vendors are adding AI-driven insights to help businesses make better decisions faster. These tools can analyze large datasets quickly, providing actionable insights. For example, some platforms now offer predictive analytics to anticipate resource needs.
- Edge Computing Integration: The rise of edge computing is influencing hybrid cloud solutions. This allows data to be processed closer to where it's generated, reducing latency. Vendors are building in features to support edge applications, enhancing performance for IoT devices.
- Enhanced Security Protocols: With increasing cyber threats, vendors are focusing on advanced security features. This includes zero-trust architectures and better encryption methods. These enhancements protect sensitive data across hybrid environments.
- Sustainability Initiatives: As environmental concerns grow, vendors are incorporating eco-friendly practices. This includes optimizing energy use and reducing carbon footprints. Some providers now highlight their commitment to sustainability as a key selling point.
- Unified Management Platforms: There's a push towards unified management interfaces for easier control of hybrid environments. These platforms allow users to manage resources across clouds from a single dashboard, simplifying operations and improving efficiency.
What Is Hybrid Cloud Software?
Hybrid cloud software is a solution that combines private and public cloud environments to provide flexibility and scalability. IT professionals and business managers use these tools to manage data, applications, and resources efficiently. Features like AI-powered analytics, edge computing integration, and enhanced security protocols help with decision-making, performance, and data protection. Overall, these tools offer businesses the ability to optimize operations and adapt to changing needs.
Features of Hybrid Cloud Software
When selecting hybrid cloud software, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- Scalability: Allows your business to grow by easily adapting to increased data and workloads.
- AI-powered analytics: Provides insights that help make informed decisions by quickly analyzing large datasets.
- Edge computing integration: Reduces latency by processing data closer to its source, enhancing performance for IoT devices.
- Enhanced security protocols: Protects sensitive data with advanced security features like zero-trust architectures and improved encryption.
- Unified management platform: Simplifies operations by allowing resource management across clouds from a single dashboard.
- Customizability: Lets you tailor features to fit your specific business processes and workflows.
- Automated compliance checks: Ensures your operations meet industry standards without manual intervention.
- Centralized management console: Provides a single interface for managing and monitoring all cloud activities.
Benefits of Hybrid Cloud Software
Implementing hybrid cloud software provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Flexibility: Offers the ability to choose between private and public cloud environments based on your needs.
- Cost efficiency: Helps manage expenses by allowing you to pay for only the resources you use.
- Enhanced security: Protects your data with advanced security protocols and compliance features.
- Improved performance: Boosts application and data processing speed through edge computing integration.
- Scalability: Supports your business growth by easily accommodating increased workloads and data.
- Informed decision-making: Provides valuable insights with AI-powered analytics to guide your strategies.
- Resource optimization: Ensures efficient use of resources with features like automated compliance checks and centralized management.
Costs and Pricing of Hybrid Cloud Software
Selecting hybrid cloud software 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 hybrid cloud software solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for Hybrid Cloud Software
Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
Free Plan | $0 | Basic management tools, limited storage, and community support. |
Personal Plan | $10-$30/user/month | Enhanced security, basic analytics, and limited customer support. |
Business Plan | $50-$100/user/month | Advanced analytics, multi-cloud integration, and priority customer support. |
Enterprise Plan | $150-$300/user/month | Full customization, dedicated support team, and comprehensive security features. |
Hybrid Cloud Software (FAQs)
Here are some answers to common questions about hybrid cloud software:
What are the requirements for hybrid cloud computing?
Hybrid cloud computing requires a mix of public and private cloud infrastructures. You’ll need at least one public infrastructure platform, such as AWS or Azure, alongside private computing resources like an on-premises data center. This setup offers flexibility and scalability for your business.
What are the capabilities of hybrid cloud?
Hybrid cloud solutions let you use on-premises services while benefiting from public cloud options for data storage and application access. This setup offers flexibility, allowing you to choose where to run workloads based on performance, cost, and compliance needs.
What is the main advantage of using a hybrid cloud?
The main advantage of a hybrid cloud is its flexibility. It provides scalability, security, and cost efficiency by allowing you to balance workloads between private and public clouds. This setup ensures you maintain control while optimizing resources.
What are the risks of hybrid cloud security?
Hybrid cloud security risks often involve multiple access points, making identity and access management crucial. Poor management can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data. Implementing strong security protocols and regular audits can mitigate these risks.
How do you manage data across hybrid cloud environments?
Managing data across hybrid clouds involves using centralized management tools. These tools help you monitor, control, and optimize data flows between private and public clouds, ensuring consistency and security. Automation features can further simplify data management tasks.
How can hybrid cloud software improve business operations?
Hybrid cloud software improves business operations by offering flexibility and scalability. It allows you to deploy applications quickly, optimize costs, and enhance performance. By leveraging both private and public clouds, you can meet varying business demands efficiently.
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