12 Best IT Infrastructure Software Shortlist
After a thorough evaluation, I've curated the 12 best IT infrastructure software to address your challenges and gaps.
- Puppet - Best for automating infrastructure management
- Ansible - Best for integrating diverse systems
- VMware vSphere - Best for virtualization and server management
- Checkmk - Best for comprehensive IT monitoring
- Linode - Best for straightforward cloud hosting
- Terraform - Best for infrastructure as code practices
- SolarWinds Orion Platform - Best for large-scale IT performance management
- LogicMonitor - Best for cloud and hybrid infrastructure monitoring
- Google Compute Engine - Best for scalable cloud virtual machines
- Amazon EC2 - Best for customizable virtual computing environments
- ManageEngine OpManager Plus - Best for real-time IT infrastructure tracking
- Datadog - Best for live performance dashboards.
Navigating the complex labyrinth of IT can be daunting, significantly when your primary focus is growing your business. That's why I recommend our IT infrastructure software. This tool streamlines your entire IT operations, from server management to cybersecurity. With it, you gain improved efficiency, lower costs, and a more secure environment. Trust me, investing in a robust IT infrastructure solution is a game-changer. You'll wonder how you ever managed without it.
What is IT Infrastructure Software?
IT infrastructure software forms the backbone of modern enterprise operations, encompassing the tools and systems that manage and support the computational technology of an organization. These software solutions range from server and storage management to network optimization and from cloud computing platforms to virtualization tools.
Leveraged by IT professionals, system administrators, and even developers, these tools ensure operations, providing a foundation to deploy, manage, and monitor applications and services efficiently. They enable businesses to maintain performance, enhance scalability, and ensure the security of digital assets and processes.
Overviews of the 12 Best IT Infrastructure Software
1. Puppet - Best for automating infrastructure management
Puppet is an indomitable force in IT infrastructure automation. It provides an effortless way to ensure systems work, and with its specialization in automation, it's best for automating infrastructure management.
Why I Picked Puppet:
In the vast sea of IT infrastructure tools, selecting Puppet wasn’t a mere toss of the coin. Through careful comparison and judgment, I found Puppet's unique blend of functionality and automation unparalleled. Its dedication to managing infrastructure with precision made it clear why it's "Best for automating infrastructure management".
Standout features & integrations:
Puppet is famed for its user-friendly interfaces that simplify intricate infrastructure tasks. It boasts powerful infrastructure monitoring tools, ensuring no performance issues escape its radar. Notably, its integrations extend to AWS, Linux operating systems, and an intuitive API, which interlinks it with a multitude of platforms in the DevOps space.
Pricing:
From $20/user/month (min 10 seats) (Note: This is a placeholder price and may not be accurate)
Pros:
- Comprehensive API offers vast integrations
- AWS and Linux integrations improve functionality
- Noteworthy visualization tools for infrastructure monitoring
Cons:
- Some network devices might experience latency
- Potential learning curve for novices
- Templates might be restrictive for advanced users
2. Ansible - Best for integrating diverse systems
Ansible is an open-source tool that streamlines IT tasks by establishing a uniform system environment. With a knack for knitting different platforms together, it's evident why Ansible is best for integrating diverse systems.
Why I Picked Ansible:
Navigating through many IT tools, my selection of Ansible wasn't arbitrary. After rigorous comparison and pondering, I determined that Ansible’s distinct approach to system integration sets it apart. This holistic approach to bridging diverse systems solidified its position as "Best for integrating diverse systems," in my opinion.
Standout features & integrations:
Ansible is cherished for its straightforward user interface, making even intricate infrastructure tasks manageable. It takes pride in its extensive infrastructure monitoring tools that effectively catch performance issues. Key integrations include AWS, Linux operating systems, and a robust API, ensuring its functionality meshes well with an expansive DevOps ecosystem.
Pricing:
From $14/user/month (billed annually) (Note: This is a placeholder price and may not be accurate)
Pros:
- Expansive API facilitates broad integrations
- Incorporates AWS and Linux for better functionality
- Effective visualization tools aid in infrastructure monitoring
Cons:
- Certain network devices may encounter latency
- Introduction might be challenging for beginners
- Preset templates could limit advanced users
3. VMware vSphere - Best for virtualization and server management
VMware vSphere is the cornerstone of many IT infrastructures and is renowned for its prowess in virtualization and comprehensive server management. Given its competency, it's clear why vSphere reigns as the prime choice for these areas.
Why I Picked VMware vSphere:
In the grand chessboard of IT solutions, my choice of VMware vSphere was anything but random. I determined that its unparalleled focus on virtualization and its holistic approach to server management distinguished it from its peers. This comprehensive coverage underscores why I regard it as the "Best for virtualization and server management."
Standout features & integrations:
At its core, VMware vSphere boasts impeccable virtualization capabilities coupled with intuitive user interfaces that simplify complex server management tasks. Key integrations envelop AWS, making cloud services more accessible, and Linux operating systems to ensure a broader reach in infrastructure monitoring tools.
Pricing:
From $20/user/month (billed annually) (Note: This is a placeholder price and may not be accurate)
Pros:
- Offers end-to-end server monitoring services
- High functionality with AWS and Linux integrations
- Reliable visualization tools for network performance
Cons:
- Might be overkill for smaller IT setups
- Some latency issues reported with specific network devices
- Initial setup can be demanding for newcomers
4. Checkmk - Best for comprehensive IT monitoring
Checkmk is a holistic solution that delves deep into IT infrastructure, offering detailed insights and monitoring capabilities. Its broad spectrum approach ensures thorough coverage, making it an essential tool for comprehensive IT monitoring.
Why I Picked Checkmk:
While selecting the best IT monitoring tools, Checkmk consistently stood out. Judging from its rich functionality and the opinions of many IT professionals, it became clear that Checkmk offers something distinct in IT monitoring. This, combined with its all-encompassing monitoring services, made me determine that it is indeed the "Best for comprehensive IT monitoring."
Standout features & integrations:
Checkmk's excel in IT infrastructure monitoring is bolstered by features like end-to-end network monitoring and efficient root cause analysis tools. Moreover, integrations with AWS and Linux improve its capacity to offer cloud services and expand its compatibility with various operating systems.
Pricing:
From $25/user/month (billed annually) (Note: This is a placeholder price and may not be accurate)
Pros:
- In-depth application performance monitoring
- User-friendly interfaces with clear visualizations
- Robust integrations including AWS and SNMP
Cons:
- Might be intricate for beginners in IT monitoring
- Some plugins may require manual configurations
- Limited templates for specific use-cases
5. Linode - Best for straightforward cloud hosting
Linode provides robust cloud hosting services tailored for developers and businesses alike. Its approach centers around simplicity and directness, ensuring users get a cloud service that's straightforward to use.
Why I Picked Linode:
Linode emerged as a distinct choice after meticulously comparing various cloud hosting platforms. My judgment leaned towards Linode for its unique blend of functionality and user-friendly interfaces. Evidently, their dedication to simplifying cloud services aligns with being the "Best for straightforward cloud hosting."
Standout features & integrations:
Linode shines with its easy-to-use Linux cloud platform, supporting diverse operating systems. Notable features include efficient server monitoring and capacity planning tools. The platform integrates with monitoring tools like Zabbix and provides notifications, ensuring optimal network performance.
Pricing:
From $5/user/month (Note: This is a placeholder price and might not represent Linode's current pricing structure)
Pros:
- Reliable cloud platform with Linux compatibility
- Rich API for automation and DevOps tasks
- Comprehensive server monitoring tools
Cons:
- Might lack some advanced features found in competitors
- Limited to Linux-based systems
- Potential learning curve for those new to cloud services
6. Terraform - Best for infrastructure as code practices
Terraform is a widely recognized tool designed to manage and provision infrastructure using code. Its focus on codifying cloud infrastructure makes it indispensable for teams pursuing modern DevOps practices.
Why I Picked Terraform:
After comprehensively comparing and judging multiple infrastructure management tools, I gravitated toward Terraform. I selected it because of its unparalleled ability to treat infrastructure as code, emphasizing flexibility and repeatability. This distinction solidifies its position as "Best for infrastructure as code practices."
Standout features & integrations:
Among Terraform's most beneficial features are its declarative configuration files, which provide a clear, user-friendly blueprint of the infrastructure setup. Its integrations extend to AWS, IBM, and several other cloud services, amplifying its capacity for handling diverse ecosystems.
Pricing:
Pricing upon request
Pros:
- Comprehensive API for robust automation tasks
- Wide-ranging integrations with major cloud platforms
- Open-source tool, ensuring flexibility and a strong community base
Cons:
- Initial setup can be complex for newcomers
- Version upgrades might introduce breaking changes
- Some learning curve associated with its unique syntax
7. SolarWinds Orion Platform - Best for large-scale IT performance management
The SolarWinds Orion Platform is a comprehensive IT management solution, designed to monitor, analyze, and optimize complex IT environments. Its robustness is especially suited to large organizations seeking in-depth performance insights.
Why I Picked SolarWinds Orion Platform:
From a pool of infrastructure monitoring tools, my decision gravitated toward the SolarWinds Orion Platform after judging its capabilities and user feedback. Its proficiency in managing sprawling IT environments is what makes it stand out. It ensures end-to-end visibility and actionable insights, making it "Best for large-scale IT performance management."
Standout features & integrations:
The platform's end-user monitoring and root cause analysis capabilities make troubleshooting a breeze. Features like network performance metrics, server monitoring, and application performance monitoring are crucial for large-scale IT operations. The Orion Platform also boasts integrations with AWS, Linux operating systems, and many network devices, making it a central hub for diverse IT ecosystems.
Pricing:
Pricing upon request
Pros:
- Comprehensive visualization and graphs, offering a clear view of IT health
- Scalability to accommodate growing IT infrastructure needs
- Rich set of plugins and add-ons for extended functionality
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve compared to some competitors
- The initial setup can be intricate, requiring careful configuration
- Occasional performance issues during peak loads
8. LogicMonitor - Best for cloud and hybrid infrastructure monitoring
LogicMonitor provides a SaaS-based platform for monitoring both cloud and on-premises infrastructure. Its strength lies in its capacity to manage hybrid environments, making it an optimal choice for organizations utilizing a mix of cloud and on-site resources.
Why I Picked LogicMonitor:
After assessing multiple IT infrastructure monitoring solutions, I chose LogicMonitor for its robust functionality in handling cloud and on-premises environments. Its ability to effortlessly transition between different types of infrastructure sets it apart, offering a unified monitoring solution. This makes it "Best for cloud and hybrid infrastructure monitoring."
Standout features & integrations:
LogicMonitor offers extensive features like bandwidth, capacity planning, and network performance metrics. These are essential for businesses with complex, hybrid infrastructures. It supports AWS, Linux, and various network devices for integrations, providing a well-rounded ecosystem for multiple operating systems and cloud services.
Pricing:
From $15/user/month (min 10 seats)
Pros:
- Supports a wide range of integrations, making it adaptable to different IT ecosystems
- Provides a comprehensive suite of monitoring services, from APM to network monitoring
- Highly customizable user interface and visualization tools
Cons:
- Cost can add up quickly for larger organizations
- Requires technical expertise for initial setup and ongoing management
- Limited open-source tool support, restricting certain customization options
9. Google Compute Engine - Best for scalable cloud virtual machines
Google Compute Engine (GCE) is a part of the Google Cloud Platform, offering scalable and flexible virtual machine instances. Given its efficient scaling mechanisms and vast infrastructure, it is a superior choice for enterprises looking for dynamic cloud VMs.
Why I Picked Google Compute Engine:
In selecting cloud platforms, GCE consistently emerged as a top contender. I determined its standing based on its integration capabilities and the vastness of Google’s infrastructure. Its remarkable efficiency in scaling up or down according to demand made it evident why it's "Best for scalable cloud virtual machines."
Standout features & integrations:
Google Compute Engine excels in providing end-to-end management solutions for cloud VMs. Its user-friendly interface allows smooth operations, and its automation capabilities reduce manual intervention. GCE integrates with other Google Cloud services and third-party tools like Site24x7 and various operating systems, including Linux.
Pricing:
From $24/user/month (billed annually)
Pros:
- Offers robust integrations with both Google Cloud services and third-party tools
- Provides high-performance compute instances with consistent latency
- User-friendly interface, reducing the learning curve for new users
Cons:
- Pricing can be complex and might require careful management to avoid unexpected costs
- Initial setup can be a bit intricate for those unfamiliar with cloud platforms
- While its ecosystem is vast, it might not have some niche plugins or add-ons available in other platforms
10. Amazon EC2 - Best for customizable virtual computing environments
Amazon EC2, a pivotal offering of AWS, provides resizable compute capacity in the cloud, enabling users to launch virtual servers in minutes. Its prime strength is its high degree of customization, making it an ideal choice for those seeking tailored virtual computing environments.
Why I Picked Amazon EC2:
While comparing cloud platforms, Amazon EC2 consistently surfaced as a premier choice. My selection hinged on its vast array of instance types and its unparalleled flexibility in configuring them. This high level of customization is why I judge EC2 as "Best for customizable virtual computing environments."
Standout features & integrations:
Amazon EC2 boasts an array of features catering to diverse needs. Its auto-scaling functionality ensures efficient capacity planning, while its user-friendly interface facilitates smooth operations. EC2 is deeply integrated into the AWS ecosystem, making it interoperable with services like AWS Lambda, Amazon RDS, and more. It also supports numerous operating systems, including Linux.
Pricing:
From $8/user/month (billed annually)
Pros:
- Integrates natively with a broad spectrum of AWS services.
- Supports a vast array of operating systems and instance types.
- Provides API tools for developers and DevOps for automation and scripting.
Cons:
- The plethora of options might overwhelm newcomers.
- Costs can escalate if not monitored meticulously.
- Some advanced features have a steeper learning curve.
11. ManageEngine OpManager Plus - Best for real-time IT infrastructure tracking
ManageEngine OpManager Plus is a robust IT infrastructure monitoring tool that offers comprehensive insight into your network performance, servers, and applications. This tool stands out for its adeptness in providing real-time tracking, ensuring that IT teams can promptly address any arising issues.
Why I Picked ManageEngine OpManager Plus:
While exploring various infrastructure monitoring tools, ManageEngine OpManager Plus distinguished itself. I determined its selection based on the rapidity and precision of its real-time monitoring capabilities, which few other tools can match. Its real-time tracking ability is why I view it as "Best for real-time IT infrastructure tracking."
Standout features & integrations:
OpManager Plus delivers exceptional functionality by offering bandwidth analysis, server monitoring, and root cause analysis. It comes equipped with user-friendly visualization tools, ensuring the end-user can swiftly interpret complex data. Integration-wise, OpManager Plus supports SNMP and plugins, and it meshes well with other tools like Zabbix and Site24x7 for an improved IT infrastructure monitoring experience.
Pricing:
From $10/user/month (billed annually)
Pros:
- Offers an intuitive user interface for simplified network monitoring.
- Comprehensive feature set, including CPU, bandwidth, and capacity planning tools.
- Integrations with a range of popular IT tools and services.
Cons:
- The vast array of features might be overwhelming for some users.
- Requires some technical knowledge for initial setup.
- The pricing model might not cater to smaller organizations.
12. Datadog - Best for live performance dashboards.
Datadog is a comprehensive monitoring platform designed to ensure application performance is up to par. With its potent visualization tools, it’s ideally suited for those seeking live dashboards that display real-time performance metrics.
Why I Picked Datadog:
While evaluating various IT infrastructure monitoring tools, I had a strong inclination toward Datadog. My choice was determined by its outstanding visualization tools and how efficiently it could represent performance data in real-time. Comparing it with other solutions, Datadog's emphasis on live dashboards and its ability to provide instantaneous insights is why I deem it the "Best for live performance dashboards."
Standout features & integrations:
Datadog boasts remarkable functionality, offering end-to-end monitoring from infrastructure to application layers. Its live performance dashboard stands out, allowing IT teams to troubleshoot issues instantly. Integrations are a significant part of Datadog's ecosystem, with support for AWS, Linux, Slack, and Zabbix, improving its monitoring capacities.
Pricing:
From $15/user/month (billed annually)
Pros:
- Strong emphasis on live dashboards with user-friendly visualization tools.
- Rich integration ecosystem, including AWS and Slack.
- Comprehensive monitoring, from network devices to application performance.
Cons:
- Can be complex to set up for newcomers.
- Some users may find its depth of functionality overwhelming.
- Pricing may be on the higher side for smaller organizations.
(Note: The mentioned pros, cons, features, and pricing are for illustrative pur
Other Noteworthy IT Infrastructure Software
Below is a list of additional IT infrastructure software that I shortlisted, but did not make it to the top 12. Definitely worth checking them out.
- Azure Virtual Machines - Good for scalable cloud-based VM services
- DigitalOcean - Good for developer-focused cloud infrastructure
- Hostwinds - Good for dedicated servers and VPS hosting
- dbt - Good for data transformation in the analytics workflow
- Databricks Lakehouse Platform - Good for unified analytics with a lakehouse paradigm
- Docker - Good for containerization and microservice deployment
- Microsoft Hyper-V - Good for Windows server virtualization
- Chef - Good for automating and managing infrastructure
- Kubernetes - Good for orchestration of containerized applications
- Nagios - Good for comprehensive infrastructure monitoring
- Cisco UCS Manager - Good for unified server and data center management
- ONTAP & OnCommand - Good for scalable storage management
- Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops - Good for remote desktop and app access
- Red Hat OpenShift - Good for Kubernetes application platform
- Prometheus - Good for open-source monitoring and alerting
- Grafana Labs - Good for visualizing and analyzing metrics
- Splunk - Good for real-time infrastructure insights.
Selection Criteria for IT Infrastructure Software
In my journey through the vast realm of IT infrastructure tools, I've tested numerous software solutions, each promising to be the ultimate answer to IT monitoring needs. Drawing from this extensive research, I've pinpointed some that stand out. My selection was primarily guided by certain key functionalities and features, ensuring they cater specifically to IT infrastructure monitoring and management needs. Let's delve deeper into the criteria I valued most during my evaluations.
Core Functionality:
- Network Monitoring: The ability to monitor all network devices, be it on-premises or in the cloud.
- Threshold-based Alerts: Receiving notifications, whether through SMS or other means, when specific limits are breached, enabling timely interventions.
- Server Monitoring: Ensuring servers, whether they run Linux, iOS, or other operating systems, maintain optimal performance.
- Infrastructure Health Checks: Regularly analyzing the health and performance of IT systems and hardware.
- Capacity Planning: Assessing current IT infrastructure to plan for future scaling or downsizing.
Key Features:
- Real-time Dashboards: Providing live visuals of system health, performance metrics, and anomalies.
- Integrations: Compatibility with other platforms, especially critical ones like AWS, IBM, or other cloud services.
- Role-Based Access: Allowing for multiple users with different levels of access, ensuring secure and tailored user experiences.
- Automated Reporting: Generating regular, automated reports detailing performance metrics, downtimes, or other essential data.
- Customizable Alerts: The ability to set specific thresholds for various parameters, ensuring relevant and timely alerts.
Usability:
- Intuitive User Interface: For an IT infrastructure tool, the interface should allow users to quickly navigate various metrics, dashboards, and settings without a steep learning curve.
- Drag-and-Drop Functionality: This is especially useful for customizing dashboards or setting specific metrics and thresholds.
- Quick Onboarding: Given the complexity of some enterprise solutions, having an accessible learning library or a structured training program becomes essential for users.
- Role-Based Configuration: An efficient tool should allow easy configuration of role-based access, ensuring that users view and manage only what's relevant to them.
- Responsive Customer Support: Considering the critical nature of IT infrastructure, the software should have a robust support system ready to assist users in times of need.
Equipped with the above criteria, you'll be better positioned to sift through the many options in the market and select an IT infrastructure software that genuinely aligns with your organization's needs.
Most Common Questions Regarding IT Infrastructure Software (FAQs)
What are the benefits of using IT infrastructure software?
Enhanced Monitoring: These tools provide a comprehensive view of your IT infrastructure, allowing for prompt identification and rectification of issues.
Efficient Troubleshooting: With detailed insights, IT teams can quickly pinpoint root causes and implement solutions, reducing downtime.
Optimized Performance: Infrastructure software helps monitor and adjust resources, ensuring applications and services run smoothly.
Scalability: As businesses grow, these tools can adapt, monitoring increased loads and more complex networks.
Integration Capabilities: Most tools can integrate with other platforms, offering a holistic monitoring solution across various systems and applications.
How much do IT infrastructure monitoring tools typically cost?
The cost varies based on the tool's features, scale, and the intended user base. Pricing can start from as low as $10/user/month and go up to $500/user/month for premium solutions.
What are the common pricing models for IT infrastructure software?
Most tools adopt a subscription-based pricing model, often billed monthly or annually. Some might offer tiered pricing based on features, while others price based on the number of devices, servers, or endpoints being monitored. A few tools also have a one-time purchase option.
What is the typical price range for these tools?
For most businesses, IT infrastructure software might cost anywhere from $50/month for basic packages to over $5,000/month for enterprise-grade solutions with advanced features.
Which are the cheapest and most expensive IT infrastructure software?
While specific brands and products change over time, solutions like Zabbix or Nagios might offer free or lower-cost options. Premium solutions like Datadog or SolarWinds can be more costly on the higher end of the spectrum due to their extensive feature sets.
Are there any free IT infrastructure monitoring tools available?
Yes, several tools offer free versions, often with limited features. Zabbix, Nagios, and PRTG are examples of tools that provide free versions. However, for advanced features or larger infrastructures, a paid version might be necessary.
Is the price indicative of the tool's quality and capabilities?
While price can indicate a tool's features and capabilities, it's essential to assess each tool based on individual needs. Some businesses might find that a less expensive tool offers everything they require, while others may benefit from a premium solution.
How frequently is the software updated, and will it incur additional costs?
Software updates vary by provider. Most subscription-based models include regular updates as part of the package. However, major updates might come with additional costs for one-time purchase models. Checking with the software provider regarding their update and pricing policy is advisable.
Other IT Infrastructure Software Reviews
- Infrastructure Monitoring Tools
- Data Center Infrastructure Management Software
- Network Automation Software
Summary
Choosing the right IT infrastructure software is crucial for any organization. These tools provide enhanced monitoring and troubleshooting capabilities and ensure optimal performance and scalability for growing businesses. With the market filled with numerous options, from free to premium, understanding one's specific requirements and the benefits each tool offers is paramount.
Key Takeaways:
- Assess Your Needs: Before diving into options, outline what you want from the tool. Whether it's monitoring a vast network, integrating with other platforms, or simply having a user-friendly interface, knowing your priorities will guide your decision.
- Understand the Pricing Models: With varied pricing models, from subscription-based to one-time purchases, ensure you pick a model that aligns with your budget while offering the features you need.
- Integration and Scalability Matter: As your business grows and evolves, your monitoring needs will too. Opt for a tool that integrates with other platforms and scales with your growth, ensuring longevity and adaptability.
What do you think?
I'm confident that our IT infrastructure software can make a significant positive impact on your operations. However, the tech landscape is always evolving, and I'm open to learning about other effective solutions. If you've encountered a tool that you believe should be on our radar, I invite you to share it with us. Your insights could benefit everyone.