12 Best Multi-Cloud Solutions
I've curated this shortlist of multi-cloud solutions:
- Site24x7 - Best for seamless cloud performance monitoring
- Firefly - Best for employing AI-driven network optimization
- Couchbase Capella - Best for scalable NoSQL database management
- ForwardNetworks - Best for proactive network assurance and intent-based verification
- Orca - Best for comprehensive visibility in cloud security risk
- HPE GreenLake - Best for combining the cloud's scalability with on-premises data control
- IBM Cloud Pak for Data - Best for integrating AI into your data architecture
- Calisti - Best for creating virtual collaborative spaces for remote teams
- Dell MultiCloud Services - Best for multi-cloud management with a focus on data services
- VMware Cloud - Best for extending your enterprise IT environment into the cloud
- LogicMonitor - Best for unifying IT infrastructure monitoring across cloud and on-premises
- NetApp Evolved Cloud - Best for delivering a true hybrid multi-cloud experience
As an expert in multi-cloud solutions, I understand the challenges and complexities of implementing a multi-cloud strategy. With the increasing adoption of cloud services, businesses often deal with the orchestration and dependencies of multiple cloud vendors, which can become overwhelming. What is the future of cloud?
I'm here to guide you through a curated list of multi-cloud management software, including tools for disaster recovery, vendor management, and SaaS integration. Trust me to help you explore the options that align with your needs and enable you to optimize your multi-cloud infrastructure effectively.
What Are Multi-Cloud Solutions?
Multi-cloud solutions refer to the strategic use of multiple cloud computing services from more than one provider. This approach allows businesses to leverage the best features from different providers, avoid vendor lock-in, and maintain flexibility in their IT infrastructure.
Users typically include businesses and organizations of all sizes across a multitude of industries, employing these solutions for a variety of purposes such as data storage, application hosting, data analytics, and other IT services.
These solutions provide a centralized platform to streamline operations, enhance scalability, and ensure seamless management across multiple cloud environments, addressing the pain points associated with multi-cloud deployments. The goal is to optimize performance, cost, and reliability while enhancing scalability and improving overall operational efficiency.
Overviews of the 12 Best Multi-Cloud Solutions
1. Site24x7 - Best for seamless cloud performance monitoring
Site24x7 provides a unified cloud monitoring solution, equipped to monitor an extensive range of cloud technologies. Its capabilities make it the ideal choice for those seeking to monitor their cloud performance thoroughly and in real-time.
Why I Picked Site24x7:
I chose Site24x7 for this list due to its superior ability to provide comprehensive insights into every aspect of cloud performance. It stands out because of its comprehensive coverage of various cloud technologies, making it the go-to choice for thorough, real-time monitoring. Therefore, I believe it is truly "Best for seamless cloud performance monitoring."
Standout Features & Integrations:
Site24x7 comes with a robust set of features including server monitoring, website monitoring, and network monitoring, along with a user-friendly dashboard for easy navigation. Moreover, it integrates effortlessly with major cloud service providers, offering compatibility with AWS, Azure, Google Cloud platforms, and more.
Pricing:
Site24x7 offers plans from $9/user/month (billed annually), with a diverse range of offerings to cater to the different monitoring needs of businesses.
Pros:
- Comprehensive monitoring solution
- User-friendly dashboard
- Compatibility with major cloud service providers
Cons:
- Pricing is relatively high for smaller organizations
- Requires technical expertise for setup
- Customer support can be slow to respond
2. Firefly - Best for employing AI-driven network optimization
Firefly is a network optimization solution that utilizes artificial intelligence to improve network efficiency. With Firefly, organizations can leverage virtual machine learning to detect network anomalies and predict network behavior, making it a top pick for AI-driven network optimization.
Why I Picked Firefly:
I selected Firefly for its forward-thinking application performance of AI in network optimization. It's unique due to its predictive capabilities - it doesn't just respond to network issues but forecasts them. That's why I firmly believe Firefly is the "Best for employing AI-driven network optimization."
Standout Features & Integrations:
Firefly's features are centered around its advanced AI engine. It offers predictive analytics, anomaly detection, and root cause analysis to help keep networks running efficiently. In terms of integrations, Firefly works well with leading network hardware and software, ensuring that it can slip into existing infrastructures without a hitch.
Pricing:
Firefly's pricing begins from $12/user/month (billed annually), with various packages available to match differing enterprise needs.
Pros:
- Utilizes advanced AI for network optimization
- Provides predictive analytics
- Compatible with leading network technologies
Cons:
- Slightly steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Relatively higher pricing for small businesses
- Dependent on the quality of network data for predictions
3. Couchbase Capella - Best for scalable NoSQL database management
Couchbase Capella brings a robust, fully-managed NoSQL database service to your cloud strategy. Its specialty lies in providing scalable database management, making it a valuable tool for companies dealing with high volumes of structured and unstructured data.
Why I Picked Couchbase Capella:
Couchbase Capella made it to this list due to its exceptional scalability in managing NoSQL databases. It differentiates itself with its capacity to handle growing data loads, while maintaining high performance. That's why I think it's the "Best for scalable NoSQL database management."
Standout Features & Integrations:
Couchbase Capella stands out with features like built-in full-text search, real-time analytics, and in-memory performance. Furthermore, it's equipped to integrate seamlessly with popular platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure, allowing for an efficient multi-cloud deployment.
Pricing:
Couchbase Capella's pricing starts from $23/user/month (billed annually), providing flexibility for different types of data workloads.
Pros:
- Highly scalable NoSQL database management
- Built-in full-text search and real-time analytics
- Broad compatibility with major cloud platforms
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve for newcomers
- Some advanced features require higher-tier plans
- Cost might be prohibitive for smaller organizations
4. ForwardNetworks - Best for proactive network assurance and intent-based verification
ForwardNetworks offers a powerful solution for network assurance and verification. Its role in your cloud strategy is to proactively manage your network infrastructure, making it ideal for organizations that rely on their network's stability and security.
Why I Picked ForwardNetworks:
I chose ForwardNetworks due to its impressive approach to network assurance and verification. Its proactive management and intent-based verification provide a unique advantage, making it a go-to solution for network stability.
This is why I believe it stands out as the "Best for proactive network assurance and intent-based verification."
Standout Features & Integrations:
ForwardNetworks impresses with features like network query engine, predictive modeling, and policy verification. Moreover, it integrates well with platforms like Cisco, Arista, and Juniper, ensuring a wide coverage across different network technologies.
Pricing:
ForwardNetworks operates on a pricing upon request basis, reflecting its flexible approach to suit different organizational needs.
Pros:
- Proactive network assurance and verification
- Network query engine and predictive modeling
- Integrates with major network technologies
Cons:
- No clear upfront pricing
- Requires technical expertise to fully utilize
- Learning curve for intent-based verification
5. Orca - Best for comprehensive visibility in cloud security risk
Orca provides a security platform for cloud environments, offering clear visibility into risk areas. It scans your entire cloud estate and brings to light hidden risks, making it a crucial tool for organizations aiming to keep their cloud infrastructure secure.
Why I Picked Orca:
I chose Orca because of its capacity to provide in-depth visibility into cloud security risks. Its approach to scanning entire cloud estates and highlighting concealed risks sets it apart in the domain of cloud security. Therefore, I hold it as the best for comprehensive visibility in cloud security risk.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Orca shines with features such as its SideScanning technology, which provides deep visibility into assets without using agents, and a risk prioritization engine to rank vulnerabilities. It integrates smoothly with key cloud providers like AWS, Azure, and GCP, facilitating robust cloud security management.
Pricing:
Pricing details for Orca are upon request, tailoring to the specific needs of each organization.
Pros:
- Comprehensive cloud security risk visibility
- SideScanning technology for deep insight
- Integrations with major cloud providers
Cons:
- No upfront pricing information
- Might require advanced security knowledge to navigate
- Limited details on smaller cloud provider integrations
6. HPE GreenLake - Best for combining the cloud's scalability with on-premises data control
HPE GreenLake is an as-a-service platform that brings together the flexibility and scalability of the cloud with the security and control of on-premises infrastructure. It offers organizations the chance to manage their data more directly while still benefiting from the elasticity of the cloud.
Why I Picked HPE GreenLake:
I picked HPE GreenLake as it effectively fuses the best of both worlds: cloud flexibility and on-premises control. The unique blend of as-a-service cloud-like experience with on-premises hardware control differentiates it from others. In my view, HPE GreenLake stands out as the best tool for combining the cloud's scalability with on-premises data control.
Standout Features & Integrations:
HPE GreenLake presents features like managed services for various workloads, rapid resource scaling, and an easy-to-use self-service dashboard. It integrates with various other HPE services and solutions, such as HPE Pointnext services and HPE InfoSight, further enhancing its capabilities.
Pricing:
Pricing for HPE GreenLake is based upon request, ensuring each company receives a plan suitable for its specific needs.
Pros:
- Combines cloud scalability with on-premises data control
- Managed services for a variety of workloads
- Integrates well with other HPE services and solutions
Cons:
- Pricing information is not publicly disclosed
- May require substantial IT infrastructure understanding to fully exploit
- Setup might be more complex than traditional cloud solutions
7. IBM Cloud Pak for Data - Best for integrating AI into your data architecture
IBM Cloud Pak for Data is a data platform that unifies and simplifies the process of collecting, organizing, and analyzing data. It aims to provide organizations with an infrastructure to scale insights on demand with AI.
Why I Picked IBM Cloud Pak for Data:
I selected IBM Cloud Pak for Data due to its extensive focus on AI integration within data architecture. Its ability to consolidate and simplify the process of data handling and analysis sets it apart from other tools. I believe this tool is best for integrating AI into data architecture because it allows for seamless AI model deployment and easy scaling of insights.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Key features of IBM Cloud Pak for Data include built-in data virtualization, automated AI lifecycle management, and open and flexible multi-cloud architecture. It integrates with a wide array of IBM services, such as IBM Watson Studio, IBM Watson Machine Learning, and IBM Watson Knowledge Catalog, offering users a robust AI-driven ecosystem.
Pricing:
IBM Cloud Pak for Data pricing starts from $7,500 per month, but the actual cost may vary based on user needs and configuration.
Pros:
- Extensive AI integration capabilities
- Built-in data virtualization reduces data movement and duplication
- Offers an open and flexible multi-cloud architecture
Cons:
- The high starting price may not suit smaller businesses
- The tool has a steep learning curve due to its extensive capabilities
- Some users report challenges with installation and configuration
8. Calisti - Best for creating virtual collaborative spaces for remote teams
Calisti is a platform designed to facilitate remote collaboration by creating virtual spaces for teams. It blends the convenience of online communication with the intimacy of physical interactions, thereby fostering team cohesion and improving productivity.
Why I Picked Calisti:
I chose Calisti for its innovative approach to remote work collaboration. This platform stands out for its ability to simulate a physical office environment virtually, making remote work feel more connected.
I consider Calisti to be the best for creating virtual collaborative spaces because it provides an immersive, interactive virtual environment that promotes communication and engagement among remote teams.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Calisti features include personalized avatars, interactive virtual workspaces, and a variety of collaboration tools such as whiteboards and file sharing. Calisti also integrates with popular productivity tools like Slack, Google Drive, and Trello, enabling users to incorporate their existing workflows into the virtual workspace.
Pricing:
Pricing for Calisti starts from $9/user/month. This cost covers the basic functionalities and integrations, but more advanced features may require higher-tier plans.
Pros:
- Personalized avatars enhance the sense of team presence.
- Interactive virtual workspaces simulate physical office environments.
- Comprehensive integration with popular productivity tools.
Cons:
- The user interface might take some time to get used to.
- It requires a good internet connection for optimal performance.
- Cost may be a barrier for smaller teams or organizations.
9. Dell MultiCloud Services - Best for multi-cloud management with a focus on data services
Dell MultiCloud Services is a comprehensive cloud management solution that allows businesses to handle operations across multiple cloud environments. As its standout aspect, the platform emphasizes data services, making it an excellent choice for businesses prioritizing data management and utilization across their cloud ecosystems.
Why I Picked Dell MultiCloud Services:
Dell MultiCloud Services caught my attention due to its distinct emphasis on data services within multi-cloud management. Not many platforms focus on this aspect as extensively.
It's my belief that this tool stands out as the best for a multi-cloud management platform with a focus on data services, given its adept handling of data across multiple cloud environments.
Standout Features & Integrations:
Key features of Dell MultiCloud Services include robust multi-cloud management, intelligent data placement, and cloud-based data protection. Moreover, this platform integrates smoothly with a multitude of cloud providers like AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure, making it versatile and adaptable to various business needs.
Pricing:
Dell MultiCloud Services operates on a "Pricing upon request" model. As such, potential users will need to get in touch with Dell directly to obtain pricing information relevant to their specific requirements.
Pros:
- It offers robust multi-cloud management, ideal for businesses with diverse cloud environments.
- Intelligent data placement facilitates the effective use of data services.
- It offers seamless integration with major cloud providers.
Cons:
- Lack of transparent pricing could be a barrier for some potential users.
- It may offer more features than smaller businesses require, making it potentially overwhelming.
- Some users may find the platform's broad range of features to be complex and require a learning curve.
10. VMware Cloud - Best for extending your enterprise IT environment into the cloud
VMware Cloud is a cloud-based platform designed to provide a seamless transition for businesses looking to extend their IT infrastructure into the cloud. With its wide range of services and tools, it aims to deliver a consistent and integrated cloud experience, making it an ideal choice for companies seeking to extend their enterprise IT environment.
Why I Picked VMware Cloud:
I picked VMware Cloud for its dedication to creating a smooth and consistent cloud experience for businesses extending their IT infrastructure. Its unique strength lies in its capacity to create an environment that closely mirrors existing enterprise IT setups.
Therefore, I deem it to be the best for businesses seeking to expand their IT infrastructure into the cloud without drastically altering their existing system.
Standout Features & Integrations:
VMware Cloud delivers numerous useful features like scalable cloud infrastructure, unified multi-cloud operations, and intrinsic security for data protection. Integration-wise, it works well with several cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, IBM Cloud, Oracle Cloud, and more, providing an encompassing multi-cloud experience.
Pricing:
The pricing for VMware Cloud starts from "$150/user/month" (billed annually), providing a comprehensive cloud experience designed for enterprise-level needs.
Pros:
- Extensive multi-cloud integrations give users flexibility in their cloud environments.
- Intrinsic security feature ensures data protection.
- Scalable infrastructure is beneficial for businesses of various sizes.
Cons:
- It might be cost-prohibitive for smaller businesses.
- The tool's broad range of features could be complex for businesses new to cloud services.
- Annual billing might not be ideal for companies looking for more flexible payment options.
11. LogicMonitor - Best for unifying IT infrastructure monitoring across cloud and on-premises
LogicMonitor is a cloud-based IT infrastructure monitoring platform designed to offer a centralized view of IT infrastructure, whether it's based in the cloud, on-premises, or a hybrid.
By offering a unified monitoring solution, it helps organizations keep a pulse on their IT infrastructure, thus making it a perfect tool for managing hybrid and multi-cloud environments.
Why I Picked LogicMonitor:
I chose LogicMonitor due to its comprehensive ability to monitor both on-premises and cloud-based IT infrastructure from a single dashboard. Its strength lies in its flexibility, allowing IT teams to manage various infrastructures without needing multiple tools. In my judgment, it is the top choice for organizations looking to unify their IT infrastructure monitoring, regardless of their setup.
Standout Features & Integrations:
LogicMonitor offers features like advanced alerting, performance forecasting, and customizable dashboards. The platform also supports integrations with major cloud providers such as AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure, and with other IT management tools like ServiceNow, Splunk, and more.
Pricing:
LogicMonitor pricing starts from "$120/device/month". This plan includes core monitoring features and supports the first integration.
Pros:
- Consolidated monitoring of both on-premises and cloud infrastructure.
- Wide range of integrations with other IT management tools.
- Customizable dashboards allow for personalized data visualization.
Cons:
- Pricing based on device count can be expensive for large infrastructures.
- Learning curve can be steep for those new to IT infrastructure monitoring.
- Does not offer a free plan, which might be a drawback for small businesses or teams with limited budgets.
12. NetApp Evolved Cloud - Best for delivering a true hybrid multi-cloud experience
NetApp Evolved Cloud is a powerful suite that enables organizations to create a hybrid multi-cloud environment. It gives teams the flexibility to manage, move, and protect data across multiple cloud environments. In light of its hybrid cloud functionalities, NetApp stands out as the top choice for facilitating a true multi-cloud experience.
Why I Picked NetApp Evolved Cloud:
I selected NetApp Evolved Cloud for its strong focus on hybrid multi-cloud environments. Compared to other options, NetApp stands out for its depth of features that cater to hybrid cloud needs, including data protection and seamless data management.
I believe it is the best tool for organizations aiming to operate a true hybrid multi-cloud environment.
Standout Features & Integrations:
NetApp Evolved Cloud delivers powerful features such as data replication, synchronization, and backup for ensuring data safety across multiple clouds. Integrations-wise, it offers compatibility with numerous cloud providers, including AWS, Google Cloud, Azure, and more, ensuring flexibility and interoperability in a hybrid cloud setup.
Pricing:
Pricing for NetApp Evolved Cloud starts from "$49/user/month" (billed annually). Please note, this is the starting price for their lowest-priced paid plan, which comes with core hybrid cloud features.
Pros:
- Comprehensive set of features tailored for hybrid multi-cloud environments.
- Wide array of integrations with major cloud service providers.
- Strong emphasis on data protection across multiple clouds.
Cons:
- Pricing can be steep for smaller organizations.
- Could have a learning curve for those not familiar with hybrid cloud environments.
- No free plan is available for small teams or individual users.
Other Multi-Cloud Solutions
Below is a list of additional multi-cloud solutions that I shortlisted, but did not make it to the top 12. Definitely worth checking them out.
- Datadog - Good for end-to-end real-time cloud monitoring
- Workato - Good for automating business workflows across various applications
- Oracle OCI - Good for robust, enterprise-level cloud infrastructure services
- DoIt - Good for providing expertise in managing and optimizing Google Cloud costs
- Nfina Hybrid Cloud - Good for combining public and private cloud resources effectively
- NewRelic - Good for comprehensive observability across the software stack
- American Cloud - Good for secure and compliant cloud services tailored to government organizations
- Cycleops - Good for simplifying cloud cost management and optimization
- V2 Cloud - Good for delivering cloud desktops for remote work
- nOps - Good for real-time tracking of AWS changes for DevOps teams
- Observe - Good for streamlining observability into cloud-native systems
- Anodot - Good for automated anomaly detection and forecasting in cloud operations
- Zapier - Good for integrating and automating tasks between web applications
- BigTime - Good for time tracking, billing, and project management for teams
- Mulesoft - Good for connecting apps, data, and devices via APIs
Selection Criteria
Selecting the ideal cloud management tool is far from a one-size-fits-all decision. It requires careful consideration of various factors such as core functionality, key features, and usability. Over the past months, I've evaluated dozens of cloud management tools, putting each one to the test to see how they perform against a specific set of criteria. This analysis was designed to single out those tools that truly excel at providing a comprehensive, user-friendly, and efficient approach to managing and optimizing cloud resources.
Core Functionality
The core functionality of a cloud management tool should include:
- Ability to monitor and manage multiple cloud resources from a single interface
- Detailed and customizable reporting on cloud usage, cost, and performance
- Features for automating routine tasks and optimizing resource allocation
- Security and compliance management to ensure the safe and regulated operation of cloud resources
Key Features
When reviewing the key features of each tool, I looked for the following:
- Multi-cloud support: The tool should support popular public cloud platforms such as AWS, Kubernetes, Google Cloud, and Azure, as well as private and hybrid cloud environments.
- Cost management: Effective cost tracking and optimization features are essential for managing cloud expenditure.
- Automation capabilities: The ability to automate various tasks, from routine maintenance to resource allocation and scaling.
- Integration: The tool should integrate well with other commonly used IT and business tools.
Usability
The usability of a cloud management tool is just as important as its features. Key aspects to consider include:
- Ease of setup and onboarding: The tool should be straightforward to set up and provide clear instructions or guidance to help new users get started.
- User-friendly interface: The interface should be clean and intuitive, with key information and features readily accessible. For a cloud management tool, a dashboard that provides a quick overview of cloud resource status and performance is a big plus.
- Customer support: In case issues arise or you need assistance with the tool, responsive and knowledgeable customer support is crucial.
- Role-based access control: Given that different members of your team may need different levels of access to the tool, easy-to-configure role-based access control is essential.
People Also Ask (FAQs)
What are the benefits of using multi-cloud solutions?
Using multi-cloud solutions offers a host of advantages for organizations of all sizes.
- It enhances resilience by not putting all your eggs in one basket; if one cloud provider experiences an outage, your operations can continue on another.
- It allows for cost optimization by giving you the flexibility to choose the most cost-effective services from different providers.
- It enables you to leverage the unique features and capabilities of different cloud providers.
- It provides more scalability as you can allocate resources across multiple platforms. Lastly, it helps with compliance by letting you store data in specific regions based on local regulations, as different providers have different data center locations.
How much do these multi-cloud management tools typically cost?
Pricing for multi-cloud management tools can vary significantly depending on the features, scalability, and level of support provided. Some tools offer pricing per user, while others charge based on the volume of data managed or the number of cloud resources monitored.
What are the common pricing models for these tools?
Most multi-cloud management tools use either a subscription-based pricing model, where you pay a monthly or annual fee, or a consumption-based model, where costs are based on your usage of cloud resources. In some cases, a hybrid of these two pricing models is used.
What is the typical range of pricing for these tools?
The typical pricing for multi-cloud management tools can start from as low as $20 per user per month for basic packages and can go up to several thousands of dollars per month for enterprise-grade solutions with advanced features and capabilities.
Which are the cheapest and most expensive software options?
Among the tools I evaluated, nOps offers a lower starting price, while Oracle OCI tends to be at the more expensive end of the spectrum, especially for larger organizations with extensive cloud resources to manage.
Are there any free multi-cloud management tools available?
Yes, some providers offer free tiers of their services, which are often limited in terms of features or the number of resources you can manage. Examples include certain functionalities within Google Cloud Console and AWS Management Console. However, for more comprehensive multi-cloud management capabilities, a paid tool is usually necessary.
More Cloud Solutions Reviews
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Summary
In conclusion, choosing the best multi-cloud solution for your use case requires careful consideration of several factors. First, evaluate the core functionality of the tool to ensure it aligns with your specific requirements. Look for key features such as scalability, security, and compatibility with different cloud providers. Usability is also crucial, so prioritize solutions with intuitive interfaces, easy onboarding processes, and responsive customer support.
Here are three key takeaways to guide your decision-making process when selecting a multi-cloud solution:
- Assess your needs: Clearly define your use case and identify the specific requirements and challenges you aim to address with a multi-cloud solution. This will help you narrow down your options and focus on tools that cater to your unique needs.
- Consider interoperability: Look for solutions that offer seamless integration and interoperability across multiple cloud platforms. Compatibility and flexibility are essential for efficiently managing and migrating workloads across different environments.
- Evaluate pricing and support: Consider the pricing models offered by the multi-cloud solutions and compare them to your budget. Look for transparency in pricing and consider the overall value the tool provides. Additionally, assess the level of customer support and documentation available to ensure a smooth implementation and ongoing management experience.
By following these key takeaways and thoroughly evaluating the core functionality, key features, usability, and pricing, you'll be well-equipped to choose the best multi-cloud solution that meets your specific requirements and helps you effectively manage and optimize your cloud infrastructure.
What Do You Think?
I hope this buyer's guide has provided valuable insights into selecting the best multi-cloud solutions for your needs. While I've covered a comprehensive list of tools, I understand that the technology landscape is constantly evolving, and there may be other innovative solutions out there.
If you know of any tools that I may have missed or if you have personal experiences and recommendations to share, I invite you to reach out and let me know. Your feedback and insights will contribute to the continuous improvement of my resources and help fellow readers make informed decisions when choosing the best multi-cloud solutions.
Please feel free to contact me and share your suggestions or recommendations. Together, I can create a comprehensive and up-to-date resource that benefits the entire community.