Open source cloud computing management platforms: Introduction, comparison, and recommendations for implementation

An increase in the development and use of Open Source (OS) has been observed in recent years, in particular in the fields of programming, operating systems, and application software. According to studies carried out by Gartner and Forrester however, OS is not yet used intensively for structuring and managing cloud computing platforms. This is all the more remarkable in that it is in this field in particular that it would be possible to structure cloud management platforms efficiently and cost-effectively using the OS systems available today. They are available as alternatives to commercial suppliers and enable private, hybrid and community cloud solutions to be implemented. However, many commercial enterprises, public administrations and other institutions do not take advantage of them, partly due to uncertainty and a lack of information about such possibilities. This article therefore examines this subject, compares existing Open Source cloud computing management platforms and provides specific recommendations for use.