12 Best Infrastructure Automation Tools Shortlist
After assessing the market, I've selected the 12 best infrastructure automation tools to address your tech challenges. Enjoy!
- Progress Chef - Best for configuration management and application deployment
- Azure Automation - Best for orchestrating time-consuming and error-prone cloud tasks
- Suse Manager - Best for Linux server operations and compliance
- Azure Resource Manager - Best for provisioning and managing Azure resources
- DuploCloud - Best for managing multi-cloud deployments with no-code operations
- Red Hat Ansible Automation Platform - Best for open-source IT automation
- AWS CloudFormation - Best for creating and managing AWS resource stacks
- GitHub - Best for version control and collaborative software development
- GitLab - Best for integrated CI/CD, security, and DevOps practices
- LogicMonitor - Best for SaaS-based IT infrastructure monitoring
- HashiCorp Terraform Cloud - Best for infrastructure as code across multiple clouds
- VMware - Best for virtualization and cloud infrastructure management
As someone who has spent considerable time working with infrastructure automation, I can relate to your needs. Navigating through many tools, dealing with provisioning tools, and managing configuration files can be quite a task. However, with the right infrastructure provisioning tool, you can automate the creation of Kubernetes clusters, virtual machines (VMs), and even full-scale data centers.
That's the beauty of these tools - they remove the tedious manual work, helping you focus more on achieving your goals. I've dealt with devices that require plugins and others that are agentless. I've felt the frustration when dependencies go haywire. It's all part of the journey, leading me to seek solutions that can make our lives easier. Here are some tools that will be worth your while.
What is an Infrastructure Automation Tool?
Infrastructure automation tools are dynamic software solutions leveraged by IT teams to streamline and automate the management and provisioning of IT systems, networks, and services. These tools automate repetitive and complex tasks, providing more reliable and faster outcomes than manual processes.
A wide range of professionals, from system administrators to DevOps engineers, use these solutions to create consistent and predictable software deployment, scaling, and management environments. This also helps organizations enhance operational efficiency, reduce human errors, and ultimately accelerate digital transformation.
Overviews of the 12 Best Infrastructure Automation Tools
1. Progress Chef - Best for configuration management and application deployment
Progress Chef is an open-source automation tool that defines infrastructure as code, enabling your infrastructure to become versionable, testable, and easily repeatable. This capability makes it optimal for managing configurations and deploying applications seamlessly, aligning it perfectly with its stated 'best for' use case.
Why I Picked Progress Chef:
I selected Progress Chef due to its strong reputation and commitment to infrastructure automation. Also, its capability to manage infrastructure and application configurations stands out from the crowd, setting a high standard for flexibility and scalability in this field. It provides tools and a domain-specific language (DSL) based on Ruby programming language for writing “cookbook recipes” that define the configuration and management of systems. Chef is "best for configuration management and application deployment" because it can handle complex tasks, simplify deployments, and automate workflows.
Standout features & integrations:
Critical features of Progress Chef include automated deployment, configuration management, and seamless integration with cloud-based platforms. The tool’s infrastructure as code paradigm allows businesses to manage their infrastructure more effectively while reducing manual errors. Necessary integrations such as cloud services like AWS, Google Cloud, Azure, and version control systems like Git, enhancing its usability across diverse tech stacks.
Pricing:
Progress Chef operates on a tiered pricing model starting from $137/user/month (billed annually), offering different features and support depending on the chosen plan.
Pros:
- Robust automation and configuration capabilities
- Extensive integration options
- Strong community support and resources
Cons:
- It can be complex for beginners.
- Pricing can be higher compared to some competitors.
- Requires scripting knowledge for advanced configurations
2. Azure Automation - Best for orchestrating time-consuming and error-prone cloud tasks
Azure Automation is a service from Microsoft Azure designed to automate processes and tasks, freeing up time for more complex duties. Its excellence in managing lengthy and error-prone functions in cloud environments establishes it as a robust solution for orchestrating cloud tasks.
Why I Picked Azure Automation:
I chose Azure Automation for its prowess in process automation, especially for managing complex cloud tasks. Its wide range of capabilities, from process automation and configuration management to update management, truly sets it apart. Also, Azure Automation's standout performance in orchestrating time-consuming and error-prone cloud tasks is why I named it "best for" this role, given its ability to enhance productivity and reduce errors in cloud operations.
Standout features & integrations:
Azure Automation offers essential features such as process automation, update management, and desired state configuration. These features allow for effective management of infrastructure while reducing manual effort. The platform integrates seamlessly with other Azure services, making it a natural fit for organizations heavily invested in the Azure ecosystem.
Pricing:
Azure Automation operates on a consumption-based pricing model. The costs are determined by job run time, measured in job minutes. The starting price is approximately $0.002/user/minute (roughly $1.2/user/hour).
Pros:
- Robust set of automation capabilities
- Integration with Azure services
- Flexible pricing based on usage
Cons:
- The learning curve for those new to Azure
- Limited functionalities outside the Azure ecosystem
- Complex pricing models can be challenging to predict costs.
3. Suse Manager - Best for Linux server operations and compliance
Suse Manager is an open-source infrastructure management tool that manages, automates, and secures Linux servers. It is especially recognized for simplifying Linux server operations and ensuring compliance, making it the go-to for Linux-heavy organizations.
Why I Picked Suse Manager:
I selected Suse Manager due to its dedicated focus on Linux environments. Its abilities such as automate server management tasks, enforce security compliance, and its integrated approach to handling Linux server operations make it a unique choice. The tool right to these vital attributes, the device rightfully earns the tag "Best for" Linux server operations and compliance features & integrations:
Suse Manager features comprehensive Linux server lifecycle management, automated vulnerability assessment, and patch management. It also boasts a robust compliance reporting feature. Moreover, the tool fully integrates with open cloud frameworks like OpenStack and Kubernetes and its native compatibility with SUSE Linux Enterprise Server and other Linux distributions.
Pricing:
Pricing for Suse Manager starts from $10/user/month. This covers the standard support level. So, as you know, pricing may vary depending on the support level and the type of system being managed.
Pros:
- Comprehensive Linux server management
- Strong compliance enforcement
- Comprehensive integration with open cloud frameworks
Cons:
- The learning curve for non-Linux users
- Pricing can be complex, with different support levels.
- Limited scope outside of Linux environments
4. Azure Resource Manager - Best for provisioning and managing Azure resources
Azure Resource Manager is a management layer Microsoft provides for its Azure platform. It allows users to deploy, manage, and monitor all resources in an Azure account using a consistent, unified management layer. It's handy when you have to provision and manage Azure resources.
Why I Picked Azure Resource Manager:
I chose Azure Resource Manager for its unmatched integration with the Azure ecosystem and the structured approach it provides to resource management. What makes it stand out is its ability to manage resources in a group, making it easier to visualize the relationship between them. This organized approach makes it "Best for" provisioning and managing Azure resources, especially for users who maintain complex, interrelated resources within Azure.
Standout features & integrations:
Azure Resource Manager's features such as template-driven deployments and role-based access control, offer a controlled yet flexible approach to Azure resources. It also includes features like tagging, which aids in resource organization and tracking. Additionally, being an Azure-native tool, it seamlessly integrates with all Azure services, providing an organized, comprehensive view of all resources.
Pricing:
Azure Resource Manager is provided free of charge as part of Azure services. Users only pay for the Azure resources they use, with prices varying by resource type and usage.
Pros:
- Native integration with Azure services
- Template-driven deployments for resource consistency
- Role-based access control for secure management
Cons:
- Limited to the Azure ecosystem
- It can be complex for beginners.
- Learning Azure-specific concepts require
5. DuploCloud - Best for managing multi-cloud deployments with no-code operations
DuploCloud offers a streamlined way to manage infrastructure across multiple cloud providers, employing no-code operations to simplify tasks. Its platform is also designed to handle complex multi-cloud deployments, bringing automation and simplicity to jobs often deemed cumbersome.
Why I Picked DuploCloud:
I selected DuploCloud for this list due to its unique focus on facilitating no-code operations across multiple cloud platforms. Also, its ability to streamline infrastructure management without extensive coding sets it apart from other tools in this category. Furthermore, DuploCloud excels in managing multi-cloud deployments with no-code operations, making integrations "Best for" teams that wish to simplify their multi-cloud management process without delving into code.
Standout features & integrations:
DuploCloud offers comprehensive features like multi-cloud management, automation, and no-code operations that simplify infrastructure management. It integrates effectively with major cloud providers such as AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure, enabling users to manage all their cloud resources through one platform.
Pricing:
Pricing information for DuploCloud is private and may vary based on the user’s specific needs. Therefore, one would need to contact the company directly for a quote.
Pros:
- No-code operations simplify management.
- Supports multiple cloud platforms
- Offers automation for routine tasks
Cons:
- Pricing information is not readily available.
- It may offer less control than coding-based platforms.
- Relatively new in the market, less community support compared to established platforms
6. Red Hat Ansible Automation Platform - Best for open-source IT automation
Red Hat Ansible Automation Platform is an open-source platform that automates IT infrastructure. It also eliminates the complexity of managing systems, networks, and other IT-related services. Given its ability to streamline various IT operations using open-source automation, Ansible stands out as the best choice for open-source IT automation.
Why I Picked Red Hat Ansible Automation Platform:
In choosing tools for this list, I was impressed by Ansible's reputation as an effective open-source solution, agent-less configuration management, and orchestration tool. Also, it enables users to execute playbooks to create and manage the required infrastructure resources. The fact that it has become a popular choice for automating IT infrastructure tasks due to its simplicity and broad community support sets it apart. These factors underscore why Ansible is "Best for open-source IT automation.
Standout features & integrations:
Ansible offers critical features such as infrastructure management, application deployment, and configuration management. The platform also provides a robust API for integration, which allows it to work seamlessly with systems like Terraform, Jenkins, and many cloud platforms like AWS, GCP, and Azure.
Pricing:
Red Hat, Ansible Automation Platform pricing starts at $10,000/year. Given that it is a platform intended for enterprise use, pricing details might vary based on a given enterprise's specific needs and scale, so contacting Red Hat directly for a quote would be best.
Pros:
- Open-source, widely supported by a vast community.
- Simplifies infrastructure management and application deployment
- Strong integration capabilities with various systems and cloud platforms
Cons:
- It can have a steep learning curve for beginners.
- The platform may need to be more balanced for more minor projects.
- The Enterprise version comes at a relatively high cost
7. AWS CloudFormation - Best for creating and managing AWS resource stacks
AWS CloudFormation is the go-to service for managing and provisioning AWS resources. It's a popular choice for cloud automation and AWS development environments due to its ability to handle large amounts of resources and services.
Why I Picked AWS CloudFormation:
I found AWS CloudFormation to be impressive and the ideal choice for creating and managing AWS resource stacks. Its strong infrastructure as code abilities and seamless integration with AWS services caught my attention. Its unique feature of managing a diverse range of resources is supported by the trusted reputation of AWS. Users can safely and reliably provision and manage AWS resources using a template (JSON or YAML file).
Standout features & integrations:
AWS CloudFormation’s most valuable features such as consistent management of infrastructures, automated updates to existing models, and safe management of all AWS resources. Also, its ability to integrate with various AWS services is a significant advantage, including direct integrations with Amazon S3, Amazon EC2, and Amazon RDS.
Pricing:
Pricing for AWS CloudFormation is not charged separately. Instead, you pay for AWS resources (such as EC2 instances or S3 buckets) created using AWS CloudFormation. Therefore, costs can vary significantly based on the resources used.
Pros:
- Comprehensive and efficient management of AWS resources
- Direct integration with a wide array of AWS services
- Allows for automated updates and consistent management
Cons:
- No stand-alone pricing, costs tied to the usage of AWS resources
- The steeper learning curve for those not familiar with AWS
- Limited to AWS ecosystems only, no support for multi-cloud deployments
8. GitHub - Best for version control and collaborative software development
GitHub is a platform that combines the power of distributed version control and source code management (SCM) functionality of Git with its unique features. It provides a shared space for developers to collaborate, review, and manage code, making it especially suitable for version control and collaborative software development.
Why I Picked GitHub:
I chose GitHub for this list primarily because of its position as a standard in the industry for source code management. Its widespread adoption within the developer community gives it an edge, and its rich features make it ideal for version control and collaborative software development.
Standout features & integrations:
GitHub provides features in code review, project management, integrations, and team management. Pull Requests, Forks, and Actions are among its standout features that streamline the collaborative coding process. It integrates well with popular tools such as Slack, Jira, Vagrant, and many continuous integration/continuous delivery (CI/CD) systems.
Pricing:
The pricing starts from $4/user/month for the Team Plan. Note that GitHub offers a free plan but has limited features.
Pros:
- Comprehensive tools for version control
- Excellent collaborative features
- A wide array of integrations with other development tools
Cons:
- The interface might be complex for beginners.
- Certain advanced features require payment.
- Large projects might experience performance issues.
9. GitLab - Best for integrated CI/CD, security, and DevOps practices
GitLab is a web-based DevOps lifecycle tool that provides a Git repository manager. Also, it encompasses many features, including continuous integration/continuous delivery (CI/CD), source code management, and security capabilities. This versatility and the all-in-one solution make it the top pick for integrated CI/CD, security, and DevOps practices.
Why I Picked GitLab:
I selected GitLab for its complete DevOps platform. It stands out with its integrated CI/CD and security capabilities, which cater well to teams focusing on DevOps practices. Its ability to handle all stages of the DevOps lifecycle within a single application is also noteworthy.
Standout features & integrations:
GitLab’s most valuable features such as integrated CI/CD, which enables automated testing and delivery, and built-in security capabilities that detect vulnerabilities and prevent security issues. GitLab also offers significant integrations with Kubernetes, Jira, Slack, and other popular tools, augmenting its value for many DevOps teams.
Pricing:
The pricing starts from $4/user/month (billed annually) for the "Premium" plan. They also provide a free tier with basic features.
Pros:
- Comprehensive DevOps tool
- Strong CI/CD and security features
- A broad range of integrations
Cons:
- The user interface can be complex for beginners.
- Some advanced features are available only in the higher-priced tiers.
- Server performance can be an issue for large-scale projects.
10. LogicMonitor - Best for SaaS-based IT infrastructure monitoring
LogicMonitor is a SaaS-based platform designed to automate IT infrastructure monitoring. The tool aids in visualizing and alerting about meaningful insights from infrastructure data across networks, servers, and cloud services. Given its robust capabilities and cloud-based nature, it excels at SaaS-based IT infrastructure monitoring.
Why I Picked LogicMonitor:
I picked LogicMonitor due to its robust, automated monitoring tool features that provide a broad spectrum of IT infrastructure visibility. The cloud-based platform, combined with its scalability, differentiates it from others. It fits the bill for SaaS-based IT infrastructure monitoring because it successfully consolidates diverse monitoring tasks under one roof in a user-friendly manner.
Standout features & integrations:
LogicMonitor's standout features include comprehensive IT infrastructure coverage, automated device discovery, and cloud monitoring. The tool can seamlessly integrate with various applications, like ServiceNow, Slack, and Zendesk, making collaboration and incident management more effective.
Pricing:
LogicMonitor uses a custom pricing model and doesn’t publicly disclose its prices. Pricing upon request is applicable.
Pros:
- Broad coverage of IT infrastructure
- Seamless integrations with numerous applications
- Cloud-based and highly scalable
Cons:
- Pricing information is not transparent.
- A steep learning curve for beginners
- Complex setup for some specific monitoring tasks
11. HashiCorp Terraform Cloud - Best for infrastructure as code across multiple clouds
HashiCorp Terraform Cloud is a product designed to enable development teams to use Terraform for infrastructure as code (IaC). With this tool, users can manage and provision their infrastructure across multiple cloud platforms predictably and efficiently. Its ability to handle IaC across multiple clouds makes it stand out for such use cases.
Why I Picked HashiCorp Terraform Cloud:
When selecting tools, the collaborative and scalable aspects of HashiCorp Terraform Cloud caught my attention. Its unique proposition lies in its multi-cloud support, which is critical for today's diverse cloud environment. It’s the best tool for managing infrastructure as code across multiple clouds due to its extensive cloud service provider integrations and IaC capabilities.
Standout features & integrations:
Notable features of Terraform Cloud include workspace management, module sharing, and remote state management. Crucially, Terraform Cloud integrates with most major cloud providers, including AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure, which makes it versatile in a multi-cloud strategy.
Pricing:
Terraform Cloud pricing starts at $20/user/month, with a minimum of five users ("min 5 seats").
Pros:
- Extensive multi-cloud support
- Collaborative infrastructure development
- Robust set of features for infrastructure management
Cons:
- It can be complex to learn for newcomers to IaC.
- Costs can accumulate quickly for larger teams.
- Some advanced features are only available in higher tiers.
12. VMware - Best for virtualization and cloud infrastructure management
VMware is a leading provider of cloud computing and virtualization software and services. It's known for delivering a top-tier platform for businesses to virtualize their IT infrastructure on-premises and in the cloud. Given its proficiency in these areas, it is ideal for virtualization and cloud infrastructure management.
Why I Picked VMware:
In selecting tools for this list, the proven track record of VMware in the industry stood out. It's a pioneer in virtualization technology and continues to innovate in cloud infrastructure management. VMware is best for these use cases due to its comprehensive features tailored for virtualizing and managing complex IT environments.
Standout features & integrations:
VMware boasts many vital features, such as vSphere for server virtualization, vSAN for software-defined storage, and NSX for network virtualization. Additionally, it integrates well with many cloud providers like AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure, easing the process of managing hybrid and multi-cloud environments.
Pricing:
VMware pricing can vary greatly depending on the products and solutions chosen. It's best to contact the company for a customized quote. Thus, I would categorize it as “Pricing upon request.”
Pros:
- A comprehensive suite of virtualization and cloud management tools
- Robust integrations with major cloud providers
- Proven reliability and industry acceptance
Cons:
- It can be complex to set up and manage.
- The pricing model may be more precise with a customized quote.
- Certain features may require additional licensing costs
Other Noteworthy Infrastructure Automation Tools
Below is a list of additional infrastructure automation tools I shortlisted but did not reach the top 12. It’s definitely worth checking them out.
- Pulumi - Good for modern infrastructure as code with multiple language support
- Spot by NetApp - Good for optimizing cloud costs with automated workload management
- Google Cloud Deployment Manager - Good for managing Google Cloud resources using yaml configuration management tool
- AutoCloud - Good for automating cloud setup and deployments with ready templates
- Puppet Enterprise - Good for IT automation with configuration management capabilities
- Resolve - Good for automated IT operations with AI-driven responses.
- Cloudify - Good for orchestrating multi-cloud deployments with an open-source approach
- Qovery - Good for deploying apps directly from your code repository to the cloud
- SaltStack - Good for infrastructure automation with a focus on security and compliance
- JHipster - Good for quickly generating, developing, and deploying modern web applications and microservices
- JFrog Software Supply Chain Platform - Good for securing and managing software binaries and containers
- Canonical Juju - Good for managing services and applications in cloud environments with model-driven automation
- Interworks.Cloud platform - Good for cloud service providers needing an all-in-one cloud commerce platform
- Red Hat CloudForms - Good for managing hybrid clouds and virtual infrastructures
- SolusVM - Good for virtual private server management and infrastructure control
Selection Criteria for Choosing an Infrastructure Automation Tools
Choosing the right infrastructure automation software requires a careful evaluation of several factors. Having tested and researched more than a dozen tools, my criteria specifically focused on essential nuances for infrastructure automation. Here's a closer look at the key factors that guided my selection process.
Core Functionality
- Infrastructure as Code (IaC): A vital function for modern infrastructure management, allowing infrastructure to be defined, provisioned, and managed using code.
- Multi-platform support: An essential function, as these tools need to provide support across diverse cloud environments and operating systems (Windows, Mac OS, Linux).
- Task Automation: Critical in reducing manual work, the tool should be capable of automating repetitive tasks and routine procedures.
- Scalability: The tool should be able to scale alongside a growing infrastructure, handling more complexity without degrading performance.
Key Features
- Security Management: A tool that aids in implementing security practices and maintaining compliance across infrastructure is invaluable.
- Change Management: The software must enable tracking of infrastructure changes, providing clear visibility and control over modifications.
- Integration Capabilities: The tool's ability to seamlessly integrate with commonly used CI/CD pipelines, real-time monitoring metric systems, and version control systems are critical.
- Multi-Language Support: Support for various scripting and programming languages (e.g., Python, Java, Ruby) can enhance the tool's adaptability and reach.
Usability
- Interface Design: For an infrastructure automation tool, the user interface should display the status and configuration of the managed infrastructure. Well-structured, easy-to-read tables and graphs are more useful than flashy designs.
- Learning Curve: These tools can be complex. Resources such as detailed documentation, active community support, and easily accessible tutorials can dramatically improve user experience.
- Role-Based Access: The tool should provide flexible, easy-to-configure role-based access, which is crucial for managing permissions in a team environment.
- API Availability: Robust APIs allow users to tailor the tool to their needs, enabling custom automation and interactions with other systems.
As you explore these tools, consider these criteria to make an informed decision that best suits your infrastructure automation needs. Remember, the right tool will balance functionality, features, and usability based on your unique requirements.
Most Common Questions Regarding Infrastructure Automation Tools (FAQs)
What are the benefits of using infrastructure automation tools?
Infrastructure automation tools bring many benefits that can streamline operations and increase efficiency.
- Reduced human error: Automation minimizes the chances of errors that occur due to manual interventions.
- Improved efficiency: Tasks that used to take hours can now be completed in minutes, increasing productivity significantly.
- Scalability: Infrastructure automation tools are designed to manage large-scale infrastructure, allowing organizations to scale operations without adding to their workforce.
- Standardization and consistency: These tools ensure uniformity across the infrastructure, regardless of scale or complexity.
- Cost savings: With reduced workforce requirements and quicker operations, automation tools can lead to considerable cost savings in the long run.
How much do these tools cost?
Pricing for infrastructure automation tools varies widely based on their features, scale, and target market. Some devices may offer a free tier for individual users or small-scale operations, while enterprise-grade solutions can cost thousands of dollars per month.
What are the pricing models for these tools?
The most common pricing model is subscription-based, often per-user or per-node. Other factors that might affect pricing include the number of integrations, access to premium features, and the level of customer support provided.
What is the typical range of pricing?
Typically, the pricing can start from around $20 per user/month for basic plans and can go up to several thousand dollars per month for large-scale, enterprise-grade solutions.
What is the cheapest and most expensive software?
While specific prices change over time and across regions, as of my last update, HashiCorp Terraform Cloud is among the cheaper paid options, starting at $20/user/month. On the other end of the spectrum, solutions like Puppet Enterprise can cost significantly more, with prices often in the thousands per month for large enterprises.
Are there any accessible infrastructure automation tools?
Yes, several tools offer free tiers or open-source versions. For instance, Terraform, Ansible, and Puppet have robust open-source offerings. These can be excellent options for individual users, smaller teams, or businesses with more straightforward needs, though they often lack some features and support levels of the paid versions.
More Infrastructure Automation Tools Reviews
Summary
As explored in this article, choosing the right infrastructure automation tool is an important decision that can drastically affect your operations. These tools enable businesses to streamline processes, reduce human errors, increase scalability, and save costs. However, the wide range of available tools with unique features and strengths can make the selection process daunting.
When selecting a tool for cloud infrastructure management, it's essential to consider your unique requirements. If you're working with multi-cloud infrastructure, HashiCorp Terraform Cloud is worth considering due to its Infrastructure as Code approach and ability to work with multiple cloud providers. On the other hand, if your focus is virtualization and cloud infrastructure management, VMware may be the optimal choice. Remember your specific needs and choose the tool that best fits them.
When choosing a tool, focus on its core features, usability, automation, integration, onboarding ease, and customer support. Pricing is also essential, so understand the different models and consider value over cost. Choose a tool that meets your needs and budget while balancing usability and functionality.
What do you think?
If you have any suggestions for excellent infrastructure automation tools, please share! Your input can be valuable for others looking for the right tool.