ConnectSecure Alternative
for External Security
ConnectSecure is the closest competitor in the MSP space — both tools are built for managed service providers. The key difference: ConnectSecure scans endpoints internally with agents, while ComplianceLayer scans domains externally without agents. Different attack surfaces, different workflows. Here's the full comparison.
What ConnectSecure Is Built For
ConnectSecure (formerly CyberCNS) is an MSP-focused vulnerability scanning and compliance platform. It deploys lightweight agents on client endpoints to scan for missing patches, misconfigurations, and compliance gaps against frameworks like CIS and NIST. It's the go-to tool for MSPs that need internal vulnerability visibility across their client base.
ConnectSecure is a strong choice for:
- MSPs needing internal vulnerability scanning across client endpoints
- Compliance assessments against CIS, NIST, and HIPAA benchmarks
- Patch management visibility and reporting
- MSPs building security stacks with endpoint-level telemetry
Where ConnectSecure falls short for external scanning:
- Per-endpoint pricing adds up as a client base grows
- Built around agent deployment on endpoints rather than agentless scanning
- Designed around the internal endpoint view rather than external domain posture
- Assessing a prospect domain means getting agents onto their estate first
- Quick external assessments and insurance prep are not what the workflow is shaped around
ComplianceLayer vs ConnectSecure
| Feature | ComplianceLayer | ConnectSecure |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | $99/month (flat) | Priced per endpoint (see vendor) |
| Pricing model | Per-domain, flat tiers | Per-endpoint |
| Self-serve signup | Yes | Yes (MSP-focused onboarding) |
| Scan type | External (agentless) | Internal (agent-based) |
| Time to first scan | 5 minutes | Hours (agent deployment) |
| API access | Included on all plans | Available |
| External security modules | 15 scan modules, plus compliance framework mapping | Endpoint-focused, with some external scanning |
| Internal scanning / patch management | Not available | Yes |
| Multi-tenant dashboard | Enterprise plan | Yes |
| PSA integrations | Webhooks + Zapier | Native ConnectWise, Datto, Halo |
| White-label reports | Yes | Yes |
| Free tier | 10 scans/month | Free trial available |
| Target market | MSPs (external assessment) | MSPs (internal compliance) |
Feature availability varies by plan and changes over time; verify with the vendor.
Where ConnectSecure Wins
Where ComplianceLayer Wins
Pricing Comparison
ConnectSecure
- Priced per endpoint — check the vendor for current rates
- Cost scales with the number of managed endpoints
- Free trial available
ComplianceLayer ★ MSP Pricing
- Free: 10 scans/month, 1 domain, 7-day history
- Pro: $99/month — 1,000 scans, 50 domains, full API
- Enterprise: $499/month — 5,000 scans, 200 domains
- No per-endpoint costs, no contracts
Common questions
How is ComplianceLayer different from ConnectSecure?
ConnectSecure is an internal vulnerability scanner that deploys agents on endpoints to find missing patches, misconfigurations, and compliance gaps. ComplianceLayer is an external security scanner that checks domains from the outside — DNS, SSL, email authentication, open ports, and security headers. ConnectSecure looks inward at endpoints; ComplianceLayer looks outward at the internet-facing attack surface.
Should I use ComplianceLayer or ConnectSecure for my MSP?
It depends on the use case. If you need to scan client endpoints for vulnerabilities and compliance (CIS benchmarks, NIST), ConnectSecure is the right tool. If you need to assess client domains for external security posture, cyber insurance readiness, or quick prospect assessments, ComplianceLayer is purpose-built for that. Many MSPs use both.
Can I use ComplianceLayer alongside ConnectSecure?
Yes, and many MSPs do. ConnectSecure handles internal vulnerability scanning and compliance checks on endpoints, while ComplianceLayer handles external domain security assessments. Together, they give you a complete view — inside and outside — of your client security posture.
How does ComplianceLayer's pricing compare to ConnectSecure?
ComplianceLayer is $99/month flat for up to 50 domains and 1,000 scans. ConnectSecure is priced per endpoint (check with the vendor for current rates), so the cost scales with the number of devices you manage. The two are priced for different jobs: flat per-domain external scanning versus per-endpoint internal scanning.
Does ComplianceLayer work for cyber insurance audits?
Yes. The scan output maps directly to the security questions most cyber insurers ask — email authentication, SSL validity, exposed administrative ports, and security headers. ComplianceLayer reports are designed to help you review clients against common insurer security expectations before underwriting.
Other comparisons
All product names, logos, and brands are the property of their respective owners. ComplianceLayer is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by any company mentioned on this page. Competitor information is based on publicly available sources as of mid-2026, may be incomplete or outdated, and should be verified with the vendor.
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