Side by side

Google Cloud VM Manager vs OpenDSC

Both stand on configuration management tools. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.

Google Cloud VM Manager

Free plan APILinuxWeb+1

VM Manager combines patching, inventory, and software policy tools for Compute Engine fleets. Its locale restriction and single-project patch-job scope are important operational limits.

Visit Google Cloud VM Manager

OpenDSC combines local drift correction with centralized configuration distribution and compliance reporting. Its deployment roadmap lists native Linux and macOS LCM services, distribution packages, and official Docker deployment as planned rather than available.

Visit OpenDSC

The facts

	Google Cloud VM Manager	OpenDSC
Free plan	Yes	Yes
Open source	Not published	Not published
Runs on	API, Linux, Web, Windows	API, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows
Lowest paid plan	Free or on request	Not published
Plans published	3	None
Maker	Not published	Not published
Website	cloud.google.com	opendsc.dev
On configuration management tools	#10 of 26	#14 of 26

Google Cloud VM Manager: what it does well

Patch jobs support schedules, approvals, and scripts.
Inventory includes packages, updates, and vulnerabilities.
OS policies automate configuration deployment and reporting.
Free tier covers 100 VMs per billing account monthly.
Supports Windows Server and multiple Linux distributions.

What to know first

Only English-locale operating systems are supported.
Patch jobs run within a single project.
Creating jobs or assignments requires potentially powerful IAM permissions.
Inventory data can be deleted after agent reporting stops for days.

OpenDSC: what it does well

Local Configuration Manager can correct configuration drift.
Pull server offers node registration and compliance reporting.
Supports local configurations for disconnected use.
MIT licensed and free.

What to know first

Native Linux and macOS LCM services are planned work.
Distribution packages are listed as planned work.
Official Docker deployment is listed as planned work.

Alternatives to Google Cloud VM Manager Alternatives to OpenDSC The whole list