VMware vRealize Automation (vRA) and Puppet address different parts of infrastructure management. This comparison looks at VMware integration, cloud management, automation, self-service, and cost before outlining where vRA fits.

Where vRA Outshines Puppet

  1. Integrated Management: vRA integrates with VMware’s vSphere virtualization platform, allowing for a seamless management of virtual machines (VMs). With Puppet, you would need to use additional tools to manage your virtual environment.
  2. Cloud Management: vRA is capable of managing both on-premise and cloud infrastructure, making it an ideal solution for hybrid cloud environments. Puppet, on the other hand, is primarily focused on on-premise deployments.
  3. Automation: Automation is at the core of both vRA and Puppet. However, vRA provides a more comprehensive automation solution with its built-in workflows and drag-and-drop design. This makes it easier for users to automate their infrastructure without having to write complex code.
  4. Self-Service: vRA provides a self-service portal for users to request and manage their own resources, reducing the burden on IT. Puppet does not have this capability, making it a less attractive option for organizations looking to implement a self-service model.
  5. Cost: vRA is a commercial product and is typically more expensive than Puppet. However, the added features and integration with other VMware products make it a more cost-effective solution in the long run.

The Verdict

vRealize Automation fits teams that need VMware-aware provisioning, hybrid-cloud management, and a self-service catalog. Puppet may be the better fit when configuration management is the main requirement or licensing cost is the deciding factor.

I have also compared vRA with Terraform, Ansible, and Chef if you are evaluating other tools.