OpenStack vs ovirt: What are the differences?

Introduction

OpenStack and oVirt are both open-source cloud computing platforms that provide virtualization and management of resources. While they share some similarities, there are key differences between the two that set them apart. In this article, we will explore these differences in detail.

1. Architecture: OpenStack follows a distributed architecture model, where different components can be installed on separate machines. On the other hand, oVirt has a centralized architecture and requires a single server to manage all the resources. This architectural difference affects scalability and flexibility, as OpenStack offers more options for distributed deployments.

2. Hypervisor Support: OpenStack supports a wide range of hypervisors including KVM, VMware, and Hyper-V, allowing users to choose the one that best fits their needs. oVirt, on the other hand, is primarily built on the KVM hypervisor, limiting the options for users who prefer other hypervisors.

3. Scope: OpenStack aims to provide a complete cloud computing platform, offering a wide range of services such as compute, storage, and networking. On the other hand, oVirt focuses more on virtualization management, providing features for managing virtual machines, storage, and networks. This difference in scope makes OpenStack a more comprehensive solution for cloud infrastructure.

4. Community Support: OpenStack has a larger and more active community compared to oVirt. This means that there are more contributors, developers, and users actively involved in the project, resulting in a larger ecosystem of plugins, integrations, and support resources. oVirt, while still having an active community, may have a more limited set of resources and options available.

5. Ease of Use: OpenStack can be more complex to set up and manage compared to oVirt, mainly due to its distributed architecture and the wide range of services it offers. oVirt, with its centralized architecture, may provide a simpler and more straightforward setup process. However, OpenStack offers more flexibility and scalability once it is properly configured.

6. Vendor Support: OpenStack has gained significant support from various vendors in the industry, including major players like Red Hat, IBM, and HP. This support translates into additional resources, expert assistance, and a wider range of compatible hardware and software options. oVirt, while still having vendor support, may have a more limited range of options and partnerships.

In summary, OpenStack and oVirt differ in their architecture, hypervisor support, scope, community support, ease of use, and vendor support. OpenStack offers a distributed architecture, support for various hypervisors, a comprehensive set of services, a larger community, scalability, and extensive vendor support. On the other hand, oVirt provides a centralized architecture, focus on virtualization management, simplicity in setup, a motivated community, ease of use, and vendor support, albeit comparatively less comprehensive.