Side by side
CMDBuild vs GLPI
Both stand on configuration management database. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan APILinuxMac+3
CMDBuild offers broad tools for building and operating custom asset-management applications, including workflows, integrations, and scoped permissions. The free software still requires server setup, and the standard download does not include several core configuration elements.
Visit CMDBuild Free plan Open source AndroidAPIExtension+6
GLPI combines service workflows, helpdesk tickets, and asset records, with cloud and on-premise options. Compare deployment needs, agent minimums, and plan details before selecting an offer.
Visit GLPIThe facts
| CMDBuild | GLPI | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Yes |
| Runs on | API, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows | Android, API, Extension, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Public Cloud: €19 per user a month |
| Plans published | 1 | 13 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | cmdbuild.org | glpi-project.org |
| On configuration management database | #4 of 32 | #1 of 32 |
CMDBuild: what it does well
- Tracks asset composition, location, relationships, updates, and lifecycle.
- Includes workflow, report, and dashboard configuration.
- REST services connect to external systems.
- Access permissions can be scoped through user roles.
- Supports several authentication options, including LDAP and SAML 2.0.
What to know first
- Requires web-server setup knowledge.
- Minimum hardware lists 16 GB RAM and 150 GB disk per instance.
- Standard download omits data models, workflows, reports, and dashboards.
- Requires PostgreSQL 17.x, Tomcat 10, and Java 17.
GLPI: what it does well
- Tracks a broad range of IT assets.
- Includes problem and change management workflows.
- Self-service interface is free for end users.
- On-premise use has no user or technician limit.
What to know first
- Private Cloud requires at least 25 billed agents.
- Public Cloud lists 5 GB disk space.
- Public Cloud lists 97% annual availability.
- On-premise use may require an IT team.
Alternatives to CMDBuild Alternatives to GLPI The whole list

