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 quickly across large client bases
- Requires agent deployment on every endpoint — not agentless
- External scanning capabilities are limited compared to dedicated tools
- Cannot assess a prospect domain without deploying agents first
- Not designed for quick external security assessments or cyber insurance prep
ComplianceLayer vs ConnectSecure
| Feature | ComplianceLayer | ConnectSecure |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | $99/month (flat) | ~$4/endpoint/month |
| 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 | 16 live technical checks | Limited external scanning |
| White-label reports | Yes | Yes |
| Free tier | 10 scans/month | No (free trial available) |
| Target market | MSPs (external assessment) | MSPs (internal compliance) |
Where ConnectSecure Wins
Where ComplianceLayer Wins
Pricing Comparison
ConnectSecure
- Approximately $4/endpoint/month
- Scales with number of managed endpoints
- 100 endpoints = ~$400/month
- 500 endpoints = ~$2,000/month
- 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.
Is ComplianceLayer cheaper than ConnectSecure?
ComplianceLayer is $99/month flat for up to 50 domains and 1,000 scans. ConnectSecure charges approximately $4/endpoint/month, which scales with the number of devices. For external-only scanning across many client domains, ComplianceLayer is significantly less expensive. For internal endpoint scanning, ConnectSecure is the only option.
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. Many MSPs use ComplianceLayer reports to pre-qualify clients before underwriting.
Other comparisons
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