Google Anthos vs OpenShift: What are the differences?

Introduction

Anthos and OpenShift are two popular platforms used for managing and deploying container-based applications. While both provide similar functionalities, there are several key differences between them that set them apart. In this article, we will explore and discuss the key differences between Google Anthos and OpenShift.

1. Architecture and Technology: Anthos is based on the Kubernetes container orchestration platform and also integrates other Google Cloud technologies such as Istio, Knative, and Tekton. It provides a hybrid and multi-cloud approach, allowing users to manage and deploy applications across on-premises data centers, Google Cloud, and other cloud providers. OpenShift, on the other hand, is based on the open-source Kubernetes project and offers additional features such as integrated container registry and build automation. It provides a consistent container platform for both on-premises and cloud deployments.

2. Vendor Lock-in: While both Anthos and OpenShift offer a multi-cloud approach, Anthos provides more flexibility by supporting deployments on any public cloud, on-premises, or edge infrastructure. This reduces the risk of vendor lock-in and allows organizations to choose the most suitable infrastructure for their applications. OpenShift, on the other hand, is primarily designed to work with Red Hat's OpenShift Container Platform and may have limitations when it comes to deploying on other cloud providers.

3. Managed vs. On-premises: Anthos is a managed service provided by Google Cloud, which means that Google takes care of managing and maintaining the infrastructure underlying the Anthos platform. This allows organizations to focus more on their applications rather than the underlying infrastructure. OpenShift, on the other hand, can be deployed on-premises or in the cloud, giving organizations more control over their infrastructure but also requiring them to manage and maintain the platform themselves.

4. Integration with Google Cloud Services: Anthos integrates seamlessly with various Google Cloud services, allowing organizations to leverage additional functionalities such as AI/ML services, data analytics, and serverless computing. This deep integration with Google Cloud can provide significant benefits for organizations already using Google Cloud or planning to use it in the future. OpenShift, however, does not have the same level of integration with Google Cloud services and may require additional setup and configuration to utilize these services.

5. Pricing Model: Anthos follows a subscription-based pricing model, where organizations pay for the services and resources they consume. The pricing is based on factors such as the number of clusters, nodes, and the resources utilized. OpenShift, on the other hand, offers different pricing options depending on whether it is deployed on-premises or in the cloud. The on-premises version of OpenShift may require an upfront license cost, while the cloud-based version may follow a pay-as-you-go model.

6. Community and Ecosystem: Anthos benefits from the large and active Kubernetes community, which contributes to the development and improvement of the underlying technologies. It also has access to the Google Cloud Marketplace, which offers a wide range of pre-configured solutions and applications. OpenShift, being part of the Red Hat ecosystem, also benefits from a large community and has its own marketplace with various certified solutions and services.

In Summary, Google Anthos and OpenShift differ in terms of architecture, vendor lock-in, managed vs. on-premises deployment options, integration with Google Cloud services, pricing model, and community ecosystem. These differences make Anthos a more flexible and integrated solution for organizations looking to deploy container-based applications across multiple cloud environments, while OpenShift provides a robust and customizable platform for on-premises and cloud deployments within the Red Hat ecosystem.