ComplianceLayer vs ConnectSecure
Which Is Right for Your MSP?
An honest comparison for MSPs evaluating external security scanning tools. Different strengths, different trade-offs.
ComplianceLayer vs. ConnectSecure
| Feature | ComplianceLayer | ConnectSecure |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | $49/mo | ~$300/mo |
| External scanning | Yes (16 modules) | Yes |
| Internal scanning | No | Yes |
| Patch management | No | Yes (550+ apps) |
| API-first | Yes | Partial |
| Self-serve signup | Yes, instant | Yes |
| Multi-tenant | Coming soon | Yes |
| Compliance frameworks | SOC 2, GDPR, CCPA, HIPAA mapping | 16+ frameworks |
| PSA integrations | Webhooks + Zapier (ConnectWise coming soon) | Native ConnectWise, Datto, Halo |
| Scan speed | Under 60 seconds | Varies |
| No agent required | Yes (external only) | Agent required for internal |
Best for external-only scanning
You need fast, affordable external scanning only
You want API-first integration into custom tooling
You're focused on insurance-readiness evidence
You want per-scan economics you can mark up to clients
You don't need internal vulnerability scanning or patch management
Best for all-in-one platform
You need internal + external scanning in one platform
You need patch management for 550+ applications
You want native PSA integrations out of the box
You need comprehensive compliance framework support (16+ frameworks)
Budget is $300+/mo and you want an all-in-one platform
Common questions
What is the main difference between ComplianceLayer and ConnectSecure?
ComplianceLayer focuses exclusively on external domain security scanning -- 16 modules covering SSL/TLS, DNS/email auth, open ports, HTTP headers, WAF detection, and more. ConnectSecure is a broader platform that includes internal vulnerability scanning, patch management, and native PSA integrations. If you only need external scanning with API-first integration, ComplianceLayer is faster and more affordable. If you need internal scanning and patch management, ConnectSecure covers more ground.
Is ComplianceLayer cheaper than ConnectSecure?
Yes, significantly. ComplianceLayer starts at $49/month for external scanning. ConnectSecure starts at approximately $300/month. However, ConnectSecure includes internal scanning and patch management that ComplianceLayer does not offer. The right choice depends on whether you need those additional capabilities.
Can I use ComplianceLayer and ConnectSecure together?
Yes. Some MSPs use ComplianceLayer for fast external scanning and insurance-readiness evidence, while using ConnectSecure for internal vulnerability scanning and patch management. The ComplianceLayer API makes it straightforward to integrate external scan data into any workflow.
Does ComplianceLayer require an agent installation?
No. ComplianceLayer performs all scanning externally -- no agent install, no credentials, no client involvement required. You enter a domain and receive results in under 60 seconds. ConnectSecure requires an agent for internal scanning features.
Try ComplianceLayer free — no credit card required
Run your first external scan in under 60 seconds. See if it fits your MSP workflow before committing.
Run a Free ScanStart scanning your first
domain in 60 seconds.
No credit card. No sales call. No setup. Free tier is permanent.
All scans are passive and external — we never access your servers, install agents, or require credentials. View our security practices, live system status, or browse domain reports.