CMDB

Top 13 CMDB tools: Choose the best configuration management database

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Choosing the right CMDB software solutions? Tricky, right? Pick the wrong one, and you’ll be knee-deep in chaos — assets lost, dependencies misaligned, teams frustrated. Imagine onboarding yet another tool only to find it can’t handle your hybrid cloud setup or those thousands of accounts worldwide. Nightmare fuel, huh?

After nine years in this field, I’ve seen it all. There were tools promising the moon and barely deliver Earth, and platforms so niche they might as well wear blinders. That’s why I’m here.

This article breaks down the top CMDB tools with a no-fluff take on their strengths and quirks. Dive in for expert insights, honest comparisons, and, hopefully, a laugh or two. Let’s find your perfect fit!

Selecting the best CMDB software characteristics

Let’s be honest — picking the best CMDB tools is no walk in the park. It’s more like trying to untangle a mile-long cable... in the dark. But nailing the right configuration management database tools? Total game-changer. The wrong choice means headaches, wasted time, and a pile of emails you don’t want to answer.

So, how do you avoid the CMDB chaos? Start by knowing what to look for. A solid CMDB should do more than store data — it should work for you, not against you. Here’s what to consider 👇

Key Characteristics of a Great CMDB

  • Scalability. If your CMDB software can't handle thousands of assets and relationships across multiple clouds, you're in for trouble. Look for a tool designed to scale with your growing hybrid environment without slowing down or crashing under pressure.
  • Integration. A good CMDB should seamlessly connect with your existing ITSM tools, monitoring systems, and cloud platforms. Avoid tools that require endless workarounds or don’t support key integrations out of the box. Compatibility is king.
  • Automation. Manual updates? That’s so last decade. Choose a CMDB that automates asset discovery, relationship mapping, and updates. It’s not just about saving time; it’s about reducing errors and keeping data fresh.
  • Visualization. A top-notch CMDB makes dependencies and relationships crystal clear. It can be visual dashboards, tables, interactive graphs. If you need a decoder ring to understand your asset relationships, keep shopping.
  • Flexibility. No two companies manage assets the same way. Ensure the CMDB offers customizable workflows, fields, and templates. The last thing you need is software that forces your team into rigid, unworkable processes.
  • Security. Your CMDB must have features like role-based access, encryption, and compliance support. Don’t compromise here — it’s non-negotiable.
  • Cost-effectiveness. Features are great, but are they worth the price tag? Balance your budget with the tool’s functionality, ensuring you’re not paying for bells and whistles your team won’t use.

Now that you know what to look for, let’s dive into the best CMDB tools — features, strengths, and quirks included 👇

CMDB tools comparison table

Cloudaware CMDB

configuration management database tools

Cloudaware is the CMDB that’s got your back for multi-cloud and hybrid environments. It’s not just about managing data; it’s your single source of truth for all configuration items (CIs).

What sets it apart? Visibility. It spans AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, Oracle, and even Alibaba, while seamlessly connecting to on-prem systems. Old-school tools can’t touch that level of integration.

Here’s the kicker: Cloudaware doesn’t just catalog CIs; it enriches them. It pulls relevant data — costs, vulnerabilities, CPU usage, and patch status. Then it tags and establishes meaningful relationships across all the data — from costs and vulnerabilities to CPU usage and patch status. This means you can instantly see which cloud, app, or business unit owns a CI.

For IT pros juggling hybrid chaos, this is your sanity saver. Smart. Detailed. Effortlessly connected. For example, take an EC2 instance. With Cloudaware, this instance can be enriched with metadata to provide a complete picture:

  • Cloud Platform: AWS Cloud
  • Account: ProductionAccount123
  • Cost: $150 per month
  • Tags: Environment: Production, Department: Marketing, Application: CRM
  • Application: Linked to "CRM Production"
  • Vulnerabilities: Outdated software patches, exposed ports, weak encryption protocols

CMDB solutions

With Cloudaware, you can:

*Navigate and Search with ease, filtering through hundreds of CIs in seconds. *Manage Tags across environments, making your data more organized and accessible. *Implement Approval Workflows, ensuring that changes go through proper channels. *Dive into analytics with visual dashboards and reports, turning raw data into actionable insights. *Handle change management effortlessly by tracking configurations and ensuring consistency. *Benefit from ready-made API integrations, easily connecting Cloudaware with your other tools.

Pricing

Cloudaware’s CMDB pricing is server-based, starting at 50 servers and 1 user. For example, for 100 servers, the cost is about $400/month. Want to check how much it would cost for your infrastructure? There’s an easy-to-use calculator on the pricing page.

The platform offers a 30-day free trial to explore its capabilities.

CMDB tool

Device42 CMDB

Device42 helps businesses track their IT assets and configs in on-prem and cloud environments. It also tracks their dependencies. This configuration management database brings visibility, control, and automation to complex IT infrastructures. Companies use Device42 to streamline operations, improve asset management, and ensure compliance. All while reducing risk.

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Device42 keeps your IT assets and relationships organized and current. It helps, whether you manage thousands of devices or multiple cloud environments.. It’s scalable and flexible, making it ideal for both small enterprises and global corporations. Security? Absolutely. Device42 has strong features to protect sensitive data. They keep your IT environment safe from vulnerabilities.

Features

  • Asset Discovery & Management. Automatically discovers and tracks assets across your environment.
  • Dependency Mapping. Visualizes connections between assets for better decision-making.
  • Cloud & On-premises Support. Manages both environments with ease, making it perfect for hybrid setups.
  • Network Management. Provides network topology mapping to identify critical relationships.
  • Automation. Reduces manual work by automating configuration updates and alerts.
  • Customizable Dashboards. Tailors the UI to your team’s needs with drag-and-drop features.
  • Mobile Access. Access configuration data on the go via the mobile app.
  • Security & Compliance. Strong encryption, role-based access control, and audit trails ensure your data stays secure.

Pricing

Device42 offers flexible pricing, based on the number of devices and assets you need to manage. The starting price for the CMDB tool is around $3,500 per year, which includes access to basic features for smaller teams.

For a medium-sized company managing 500 devices, the price might range between $5,000 and $8,000 per year. This includes a full suite of asset management, visualization, and automation tools.

They offer a free 30-day trial, so you can get hands-on and see if it fits your needs before committing.

Read also: Find the Best Hybrid Multi-Cloud CMDB: Cloudaware vs. Device42

ServiceNow

ServiceNow is a top CMDB tool. It helps companies manage IT, track assets, and improve configuration. Its platform allows easy mapping of configurations and managing dependencies, ensuring smooth operations.

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ServiceNow is popular among global organizations, from tech firms to healthcare providers. Its appeal lies in scalability, integration, and advanced automation. The platform also ensures security with encryption and role-based access.

This configuration management database suits companies with hybrid cloud setups and many accounts. It offers the scalability needed to match growing demands.

Features

  • Automated Discovery. Automatically discovers assets and configurations.
  • Dependency Mapping. Visualizes relationships between configurations and services.
  • Incident & Change Management. Integrates seamlessly with ITSM processes.
  • Cloud and On-premises Support. Works across both environments.
  • Real-time Data. Provides up-to-date and accurate configuration information.
  • Customizable Dashboards. Easily create views that work for your team.
  • Security. Advanced encryption and compliance features for data protection.

Pricing

ServiceNow has a subscription-based pricing model. Costs depend on your company size and the number of configurations managed. The starting price is typically around $10,000 per year for basic packages.

For example, a mid-sized company managing 1,000 assets could expect to pay between $20,000 and $30,000 annually for ServiceNow’s CMDB solution.

Though it isn’t free CMDB software, ServiceNow offers a 30-day trial, letting you test its features before making a commitment. ServiceNow offers a top-tier solution for growing IT needs. It scales well, so it's a favorite of large companies.

Read also: Find the Best Hybrid Multi-Cloud CMDB: Cloudaware CMDB vs. ServiceNow

Asset Panda CMDB

CMDB tools

Asset Panda is a CMDB software designed for flexibility. It helps companies manage IT assets with ease. From small businesses to enterprises, it fits all sizes. Whether you need to track one or a thousand assets, Asset Panda scales with you. It’s simple, customizable, and secure.

This configuration management database is perfect for tracking your IT infrastructure. It offers real-time updates and access on the go. Security is built-in, with role-based access and encryption. Asset Panda is designed for easy use without sacrificing power.

Features

  • Asset Tracking. Real-time asset management, no more guesswork.
  • Mobile Access. Manage assets from anywhere, anytime.
  • Customizable Fields. Tailor the software to your needs.
  • Barcode Scanning. Quickly scan and update asset info.
  • Cloud Integration. Syncs with cloud services for real-time updates.
  • Reporting. Custom reports to drive decisions.
  • Security. Includes encryption and role-based access controls.

Pricing

Asset Panda operates on a subscription-based pricing model. Starting at $1,500 per year, it’s budget-friendly for small teams. Prices increase with more users or assets. For example, a medium-sized company with 500 assets may pay about $4,000 annually.

It offers a 14-day free trial to test features before buying. Asset Panda is an affordable, flexible configuration management database. Perfect for businesses looking to grow with simplicity.

Read also: Cloudaware CMDB vs. Asset Panda: Which Solution Fits Your Needs?

Deepser CMDB

CMDB tools

Deepser simplifies configuration management for businesses. It helps track and manage IT assets. From small teams to large enterprises, it scales. Deepser integrates well with existing tools. It supports cloud and on-prem environments. Security? Strong. Data is encrypted and protected.

If you need a flexible configuration management database, Deepser fits the bill. It keeps everything organized. You can manage assets with ease.

CMDB tools

  • Asset Discovery. Automatically detects and tracks all assets.
  • Configuration Management. Manages configurations and dependencies effortlessly.
  • ITSM Integration. Seamlessly integrates with incident management.
  • Cloud and On-prem Support. Works well in both environments.
  • Customization. Tailor fields and workflows to your needs.
  • Reporting. Create insightful reports for better decision-making.
  • Security. Role-based access and encrypted data protection.

Pricing

Deepser offers three pricing plans:

  • Starter: $36 per agent/month (billed annually)
  • Plus: $45 per agent/month (billed annually)
  • Enterprise: Custom pricing based on business needs and the number of agents.

For a medium-sized company with 20 agents, the Plus plan would cost $900 per month. Deepser also provides a free demo and discounts for large groups.

Additionally, a 14-day free trial is available for users to test the functionality and see how it works for their business needs. This allows companies to evaluate the platform risk-free.

FreshService software

CMDB tools

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FreshService is a CMDB tool that helps businesses manage IT assets and configurations. It enables companies to track and visualize their IT infrastructure.

Ideal for growing enterprises, FreshService scales seamlessly across multiple cloud environments. Moreover, it offers robust security features, including encryption and role-based access control.

Features

  • Asset Management. Centralized management of all IT assets.
  • ITIL-Compliant. Aligns with industry best practices.
  • Automated Discovery. Automatic asset and configuration detection.
  • Incident and Problem Management. Integrated ticketing for fast issue resolution.
  • Customizable Dashboards. Tailor reports and views to your needs.
  • Security. Built-in encryption and access control features.

Pricing

FreshService offers the following pricing plans:

  • Starter: €25 per agent/month (billed monthly)
  • Growth: €50 per agent/month (billed monthly)
  • Pro: €100 per agent/month (billed monthly)
  • Enterprise: €130 per agent/month (billed monthly)

For example, a team of 20 agents on the Growth plan would pay €1,000 per month. They also offer a 21-day free trial to test the platform before purchasing.

Solarwind configuration management database

SolarWinds CMDB helps IT teams manage configurations and services. It offers clear insight into the relationships and dependencies among IT assets. This ensures accurate tracking and better decision-making.

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By offering both on-prem and cloud support, this tool is ideal for businesses with complex, hybrid infrastructures. SolarWinds CMDB is known for its scalability and security, making it a solid choice for companies of various sizes.

All kinds of companies use SolarWinds CMDB. It helps them optimize IT operations, reduce risks, and improve troubleshooting. With comprehensive monitoring and real-time updates, it helps IT teams stay on top of critical assets.

Key Features

  • Automated discovery of IT assets (agent-based and agentless)
  • Visual mapping of system dependencies
  • Integration with incident, change, and problem management
  • Customizable dashboards for insights
  • Real-time continuous updates and monitoring
  • Scalable for hybrid cloud and on-prem environments

Pricing

SolarWinds CMDB offers a 30-day free trial. Pricing starts at around €25 per user/month, depending on the number of agents and features needed. It’s flexible, allowing businesses to scale as they grow while maintaining control over costs.

UCMDB

UCMDB (Universal Configuration Management Database) is a dynamic CMDB tool by OpenText. It delivers full visibility into IT ecosystems. By mapping assets and dependencies, it simplifies management. Automated discovery tracks every component in real-time. This ensures better control and faster fixes.

Free CMDB software

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Designed for hybrid and multi-cloud setups, UCMDB is scalable and secure. It’s ideal for global infrastructures handling complex systems.

Features

  • Automated asset discovery and configuration mapping.
  • Visualization of system and service dependencies.
  • Seamless ITSM and ITOM process integration.
  • Impact analysis for smarter change management.
  • Real-time monitoring with tailored alerts.
  • Flexible dashboards and insightful reporting.
  • Advanced analytics for deep, actionable insights.
  • Scalable for hybrid, cloud, and on-premises setups.

It thrives in complex IT landscapes. Large enterprises like banks and hospitals love it. Centralizing IT data optimizes performance. Decisions become smarter. Errors? Significantly reduced. Even in multi-cloud setups, automation makes management a breeze.

Pricing

UCMDB offers tailored pricing. It starts at around €50 per user monthly. Final costs depend on size and features. Need a test run? Enjoy the trial period. See how it fits your ecosystem before committing. Perfect for streamlining IT management, UCMDB sets a high bar for CMDB tools.

BMC Helix CMDB tool

BMC Helix CMDB is a comprehensive, enterprise-grade solution. It manages IT assets, configurations, and relationships in hybrid environments.

Helix CMDB ensures visibility across on-premises, hybrid, and multi-cloud infrastructures. It tracks changes and optimizes workflows. It’s designed for industries like healthcare, finance, and IT services. These industries demand security, scalability, and control.

Best CMDB software

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Ideal for large enterprises, it offers flexibility. The tool integrates seamlessly with ITSM and ITOM. It empowers automation, change management, and incident resolution. Real-time data ensures accuracy and reduces human errors.

  • Automation: Reduces manual effort, enhancing accuracy.
  • Machine Learning: Predicts problems before they escalate.
  • Impact Analysis: Quickly assesses changes to avoid disruptions.
  • Scalable: Grows with your enterprise needs.

It offers real-time monitoring, providing quick insights into issues. This improves uptime and business continuity. BMC Helix excels at handling global IT infrastructures. With flexibility in deployment, it adapts to both on-premises and cloud environments. The system is secure and compliant with industry standards.

Features

  • Automated discovery of assets, reducing manual tracking.
  • Real-time configuration visibility, helping identify dependencies quickly.
  • Impact analysis to predict how changes will affect services.
  • AI-driven change management for smarter, faster decision-making.
  • Integration with ITSM and other tools for comprehensive management.
  • Customizable dashboards and advanced reporting to track performance.
  • Scalable to accommodate a growing, global workforce and multiple cloud environments.

Pricing

BMC Helix CMDB pricing is tailored to your business. It typically starts around €50 per user monthly. Costs can increase based on deployment size. Larger organizations pay more for additional features and users.

The tool offers a free trial. This allows businesses to explore the software before committing. If you need a flexible, scalable CMDB, BMC Helix is a strong contender for complex, multi-cloud environments.

Axonius

Axonius CMDB excels at simplifying asset management across complex hybrid IT environments. It unifies cloud, on-premises, and endpoint assets. Automated discovery ensures real-time visibility into your network. Devices are constantly tracked, improving configuration management.

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Ideal for large enterprises, Axonius fits sectors like finance, healthcare, and IT services. It’s scalable, secure, and integrates seamlessly. Integration with third-party tools ensures security and compliance.

The centralized dashboard offers a holistic view of assets. Configuration management becomes streamlined, making decisions easier. Automation reduces manual work and minimizes errors. This leads to greater operational efficiency.

For dynamic infrastructures, Axonius is crucial. It reduces complexity in configuration management across hybrid, multi-cloud systems. By automating processes, businesses gain faster responses, reducing risk. With real-time updates, configurations are always in sync.

Features

  • Automated asset discovery across all devices.
  • Unified configuration management for complete control.
  • Real-time security reporting for better monitoring.
  • Scalable integration with existing IT tools.
  • Customizable dashboards for personalized views.
  • Cloud-first to handle complex environments.
  • Advanced API access for further integration.
  • Compliance tracking for regulatory requirements.

Pricing

The minimum cost varies depending on factors like company size, asset count, and the number of integrations required. For larger enterprises or more complex use cases, the price can go as high as $126,000 annually. On average, companies pay about $55,000 per year for Axonius software.

Axonius' pricing shows its flexibility and value for both small and large businesses. It also offers a 30-day free trial. This allows companies to test its features and see if it meets their needs before subscribing.

Read also: Cloudaware CMDB vs. Axonius: Which Solution Fits Your Needs?

Flexera

Flexera’s CMDB tool is built to help businesses stay on top of their IT environments. Flexera offers a thorough look at assets, setups, and software needs across on-premises, cloud, or SaaS platforms. It focuses on cutting costs, ensuring security, and meeting compliance. This makes it a complete solution for companies with complex systems.

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This tool is perfect for businesses scaling their IT infrastructure. Whether you're a startup or a large enterprise, Flexera’s CMDB can grow with you, adapting to your needs. Companies in healthcare, finance, and tech rely on it. It has robust security and provides real-time insights.

Features

  • Full Asset Visibility. Track every asset across all environments.
  • Security First. Identifies vulnerabilities and software risks.
  • Cost Efficiency. Optimize your tech spend and reduce waste.
  • Service Management. Links IT assets with services for smarter decisions.
  • Cloud & SaaS Ready. Works seamlessly with your cloud stack.
  • Actionable Insights. Provides reports for better resource management.

Pricing

Flexera’s pricing starts around $115,000 annually, with customization based on the number of assets, users, and services. Pricing is scalable, so costs increase with the company’s needs.

Flexera offers a free 30-day trial. It lets businesses explore the tool and see if it fits their asset management processes before committing. This trial period is a great way to test out the features and capabilities of the software.

ManageEngine

ManageEngine CMDB helps companies manage IT assets and configurations with ease. It provides a centralized hub to track, analyze, and optimize IT infrastructure. Whether you’re on the cloud, on-prem, or somewhere in between, this tool integrates seamlessly with other IT systems.

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Enterprises across industries — healthcare, finance, retail — love it. Why? It’s scalable, secure, and adaptable to various environments. ManageEngine can meet your needs, whether you have thousands of assets or a few.

The security? Strong. The scalability? Also strong. It’s built to grow as your infrastructure expands, no sweat.

Features

  • Asset Management. Keep tabs on physical and virtual assets.
  • Discovery Automation. Automatically discover devices, even in complex environments.
  • Change Management. Manage and control configuration changes with ease.
  • Integrated ITSM. Links up with your IT service management workflows.
  • Real-Time Reports. Get actionable insights as you go.

Pricing

Pricing starts at $595 per year, with tiered pricing based on device count and features. Need more functionality or devices? You’ll see that reflected in the price, but it’s flexible.

ManageEngine also offers a 30-day free trial, giving you full access to the tool's core features. It’s the perfect way to kick the tires and see if this CMDB tool is the right fit for your business.

Ivanti IT Service Mapping Software

Ivanti Neurons for IT Service Mapping is a robust CMDB tool designed to provide a clear view of your IT services and their dependencies. It offers dynamic insights into your infrastructure, helping enterprises visualize how services interconnect. With agentless probes and sensors, it uncovers everything from servers to edge devices.

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Companies in all industries rely on it for resilience and adaptability in complex environments. Scalable? Absolutely — it’s cloud-native, leveraging AWS for enhanced security, traffic management, and monitoring.

Features

  • Agentless Discovery. Probes and sensors identify assets across data centers and clouds.
  • AWS Integration. Includes CloudWatch, VPC, and security group management for enhanced visibility.
  • Dynamic Maps. Visualize IT service dependencies in real time.
  • Secure Data Transmission. Uses AES encryption, SHA256 hashing, and SSL for secure communication.
  • Load Balancing. Centralized traffic management ensures reliability and efficiency.
  • End-to-End Security. Antivirus and firewalls safeguard endpoints and the service mapping environment.

Pricing

Ivanti Neurons for IT Service Mapping is designed for businesses. Its cost depends on setup and size. Pricing details aren't public. However, it matches other high-end solutions, typically falling in the mid-to-high range for CMDB tools.

For those curious, Ivanti offers a free demo — ideal for exploring how this software fits into your IT ecosystem. No fixed trial days are mentioned, but the personalized demo serves as a hands-on introduction.

CMDB tools comparison table

FAQ

What are CMDB tools?

CMDB tools map IT assets, their configurations, and dependencies. They ensure smooth operations by keeping your IT ecosystem organized and optimized.

What is the best CMDB tool?

The best CMDB offers automated CI discovery across cloud, on-prem, and hybrid environments, accurate dependency mapping, real-time updates, and compliance tools. It should scale with growth, integrate seamlessly with existing IT systems, and provide advanced visualizations for actionable insights. Additionally, user-friendly dashboards and robust security features ensure accessibility and data protection, making it a cornerstone for efficient IT management.

What are the top 5 CMDB tools?

  • Cloudaware CMDB. Perfect for hybrid multi cloud setups.
  • ServiceNow CMDB. Enterprise-grade with integrations galore.
  • BMC Helix CMDB. Great for dynamic IT environments.
  • Ivanti Neurons. Proactive monitoring and automation.
  • Flexera. A solid choice for asset optimization.

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