CFEngine
7.8#3 in orchestration / provisioning softwareFree planFree planWebAPILinuxmacOS
VisitCFEngine vs Puppet
What both publish
| Fact | CFEngine | Puppet |
|---|---|---|
| API | The Enterprise Hub exposes a REST API that also supports SQL-based queries for custom reports over distributed database data. | Puppet and Puppet Enterprise expose HTTP APIs for application integrations, including inventory and orchestration services. |
| Configuration management | The system manages files, processes, packages, services, users, storage and other promise types. | The platform continuously enforces declared configuration state and records audit and correction information. |
| Extensibility | CFEngine Build supplies community and vendor policy modules that can be added through Mission Portal or command-line tools. | The product supports an extensible scanner architecture and open API framework, while Puppet Forge provides more than 7,000 reusable modules. |
| Founded | 2008 | 2005 |
| Limit: learning curve | UpGuard identifies CFEngine's specialized language and operating-system nuances as producing a steep learning curve. | Independent reviewers frequently describe Puppet’s Ruby-based language, setup and implementation as difficult for beginners. |
| Purpose | CFEngine automates infrastructure, security and compliance by continuously keeping infrastructure secure, compliant and up to date. | Puppet Enterprise provides policy-driven configuration management and infrastructure automation for enterprise-scale environments. |
| Rating on G2 | 4.8 out of 5 from 2 reviews | 4.2 out of 5 from 43 reviews |
| Rating on Gartner Peer Insights | 4.0 out of 5 from 2 reviews | 4.1 out of 5 from 47 ratings |
| Rating on TrustRadius | 9 out of 10 from 3 reviews | 8.5 out of 10 from 58 reviews and ratings |
CFEngine plans
- Community EditionFree
- Enterprise free trialFree
- Enterprise EditionPriced on request
Puppet plans
- Puppet CoreFree
- Puppet Enterprise free trialFree
- Puppet Enterprise listing price$120 a month
- Puppet EnterprisePriced on request
- Puppet Enterprise AdvancedPriced on request
Pick CFEngine if…
CFEngine suits teams managing infrastructure across devices and systems that need policy-based configuration, security and compliance. Enterprise adds reporting, dashboards and dedicated support.
Pick Puppet if…
It suits medium and large organizations managing complex hybrid environments that need centralized automation, security and compliance. Teams managing network or edge devices should note that this is optional and requires sales contact for licensing.