Virtual machines (VMs) and containers are fundamental technologies in modern computing, enabling efficient resource utilization, isolation, and scalability. VMs allow multiple operating systems to run on a single physical machine, each in its own isolated environment, while containers provide lightweight virtualization by packaging applications with their dependencies, sharing the host OS kernel. Below is an overview of the top 21 tools for managing virtual machines and containers, each highlighted with its major features to assist you in selecting the most suitable option for your needs:

1. Amazon Web Services (AWS)

AWS is the largest cloud platform, offering over 200 fully featured services. It provides a comprehensive suite of services, including computing power, storage options, and advanced functionalities like machine learning and artificial intelligence. AWS’s global infrastructure ensures high availability and reliability for businesses of all sizes.

2. Microsoft Azure

Azure is a cloud platform offering seamless integration with the Microsoft ecosystem, making it popular for hybrid cloud solutions. It provides a wide range of services, including virtual machines, databases, and AI tools, catering to various business needs. Azure’s strong focus on security and compliance makes it a preferred choice for enterprises.

3. Google Cloud Platform (GCP)

GCP is favored for data, machine learning, and security. It offers a series of modular cloud services, including computing, data storage, data analytics, and machine learning. GCP’s robust infrastructure supports scalable and secure applications, making it a strong contender in the cloud market.

4. IBM Cloud

IBM Cloud provides a comprehensive suite of cloud services, including IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS. It offers advanced data analytics, AI, and blockchain services, catering to enterprise-level requirements. IBM Cloud’s focus on hybrid cloud solutions allows businesses to integrate on-premises and cloud resources seamlessly.

5. Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI)

OCI offers a robust set of cloud services, including computing, storage, and networking, with a focus on performance and security. It provides specialized services for enterprise applications, making it suitable for businesses running Oracle software. OCI’s flexible pricing models and high-performance computing capabilities are notable features.

6. Alibaba Cloud

As a leading cloud provider in Asia, Alibaba Cloud offers a wide range of cloud services, including elastic computing, data storage, and relational databases. It provides scalable solutions for businesses looking to expand in the Asian market, with a strong emphasis on security and compliance.

7. Salesforce

Salesforce is renowned for its customer relationship management (CRM) solutions delivered via the cloud. It offers a comprehensive platform for sales, service, marketing, and analytics, enabling businesses to manage customer interactions effectively. Salesforce’s cloud-based approach ensures accessibility and scalability.

8. SAP Cloud Platform

SAP Cloud Platform provides enterprise-grade cloud solutions tailored for businesses that run SAP software and systems. It offers services for application development, integration, and analytics, supporting digital transformation initiatives. The platform’s robust security and compliance features make it suitable for various industries.

9. VMware Cloud

VMware Cloud offers a suite of cloud services for managing virtual machines and deploying applications across private and public clouds. It provides consistent infrastructure and operations, enabling businesses to run, manage, and secure applications in a common operating environment.

10. DigitalOcean

DigitalOcean is known for its simplicity and developer-friendly approach, offering cloud services that help to deploy, manage, and scale applications. It provides scalable compute platforms with add-on storage, security, and monitoring capabilities, making it ideal for small to medium-sized businesses and developers.

11. Rackspace Technology

Rackspace offers managed cloud services across various platforms, including AWS, Azure, and GCP. It provides expertise in cloud strategy, migration, and operations, helping businesses optimize their cloud environments. Rackspace’s focus on customer support and managed services distinguishes it in the cloud market.

12. Tencent Cloud

Tencent Cloud is a leading provider in China, offering a range of cloud services, including computing, storage, and database solutions. It provides robust infrastructure and advanced technologies, supporting businesses in gaming, social media, and finance sectors.

13. Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) GreenLake

HPE GreenLake offers an as-a-service platform that provides cloud services for on-premises environments. It delivers a pay-per-use model with scalability, combining the agility of the cloud with the security and performance of on-premises IT.

14. Red Hat OpenShift

OpenShift is a Kubernetes-based container platform from Red Hat, providing a consistent application platform for managing hybrid cloud and multi-cloud deployments. It offers developer-centric tools and a robust ecosystem, enabling rapid application development and deployment.

15. Heroku

Heroku is a platform as a service (PaaS) that enables developers to build, run, and operate applications entirely in the cloud. It supports multiple programming languages and offers a simple, scalable environment, making it popular among developers for its ease of use.

16. Linode

Linode provides simple, affordable, and accessible cloud computing solutions. It offers virtual private servers, managed databases, and object storage, catering to developers and businesses seeking cost-effective cloud services.

17. OpenStack

OpenStack is an open-source cloud computing platform for public and private clouds. It provides a set of software tools for building and managing cloud computing platforms, supporting various services like computing, storage, and networking.

18. IBM Cloud Foundry

IBM Cloud Foundry is a platform as a service (PaaS) offering from IBM, providing a cloud application platform for deploying and scaling applications. It supports multiple programming languages and frameworks, enabling developers to build and deploy applications efficiently.

19. Nutanix Xi Cloud Services

Nutanix Xi offers a suite of cloud services designed to integrate with on-premises Nutanix environments. It provides disaster recovery, cloud backup, and desktop as a service, enabling businesses to extend their data centers to the cloud seamlessly.