Terraform vs. OpenTofu

Terraform and OpenTofu are both infrastructure as code technologies that have similarities but fundamental differences. They both provide infrastructure as code software for cloud service management with a consistent CLI workflow. They allow you to write, plan, and apply changes to deliver infrastructure as code. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore their key differences and similarities to help you choose the right infrastructure as code platform to meet your needs.

Terraform vs. OpenTofu: Similarities

OpenTofu is a fork of Terraform 1.6.x so there are many similiarities for now. They both have the ability to create, deploy, and manage infrastructure as code on any cloud. Both Terraform and OpenTofu follow a desired state infrastructure as code model, where the IaC code represents the desired state of the infrastructure. The deployment engine compares this desired state with the current state of the stack and determines the necessary actions, such as creating, updating, or deleting resources. Both Terraform and OpenTofu support many cloud providers, including AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud, plus other services like CloudFlare, Digital Ocean, and more. They also both require the use of a domain-specific language: HashiCorp Configuration Language (HCL).

Terraform vs. OpenTofu: Key Differences

Terraform and OpenTofu differ in that Terraform is not open source, using the Business Source License model. OpenTofu, however, uses the weak copyleft Mozilla Public License 2.0. Terraform also has a paid offering called Terraform Cloud, a fully managed SaaS service that version controls and manages Terraform state. Terraform Cloud also provides access to remote operations, policy as code, and audit logging. OpenTofu is supported by env0 and Spacelift SaaS services for managing Terraform state. As Terraform and OpenTofu continue to diverge, more key differences will emerge.

Here is a summary of the key differences between Terraform and OpenTofu:

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