HashiCorp Vault vs AWS Secrets Manager: Which is Better?

What are the main differences between HashiCorp Vault and AWS Secrets Manager?

HashiCorp Vault is an open-source tool for secret management, while AWS Secrets Manager is a fully managed service by AWS. Vault offers more flexibility and features like dynamic secrets, whereas Secrets Manager is easier to integrate with AWS services.

Which one is more secure?

Both tools have strong security features, but Vault provides more granular control over access policies and auditing capabilities. AWS Secrets Manager benefits from AWS's security infrastructure.

Can I use HashiCorp Vault with AWS?

Yes, you can use HashiCorp Vault on AWS. Many organizations deploy Vault on AWS to leverage its features while still using AWS services.

What are the costs associated with each?

HashiCorp Vault is free to use as open-source, but you may incur costs for infrastructure. AWS Secrets Manager has a pay-as-you-go pricing model based on the number of secrets stored and API calls.

Which one do you recommend for a small startup?

For a small startup, AWS Secrets Manager might be easier to set up and manage, especially if you're already using AWS services. However, if you need advanced features and control, consider HashiCorp Vault.