Best Security Delivery Platforms (SDPs) for MSPs in 2026: The Definitive Guide

Reviewed by ContraForce Security Operations Team · Updated 2026-08-12

Why SDPs Matter in 2026

Market Drivers

How to Evaluate an SDP

When comparing security service delivery platforms, assess these core criteria:

1. Ease of Deployment & Integration

• Deployment timeframe: Can you launch in 30 days or less?
• API breadth: Does it integrate with your existing tools (EDR, SIEM, SOAR)?
• Pre-built connectors: Support for CrowdStrike, Microsoft Defender, Splunk, ELK, etc.?
• Multi-tenant support: Can you manage multiple client environments in one pane of glass?

2. AI & Automation Capabilities

• Alert correlation & tuning: Does AI reduce false positives by 80%+?
• Workflow automation: Can you automate 70%+ of routine response tasks?
• Behavioral analytics: Advanced threat detection beyond signature-based rules?
• Response time: Median time to detect and respond to threats (<5 minutes ideal)

3. Scalability & Performance

• Client capacity: Can the platform support your growth from 20 to 500+ clients?
• Concurrent incidents: Handle 1000+ simultaneous alerts without degradation?
• Infrastructure: Cloud-native, on-premise, or hybrid options?
• SLA guarantees: 99.9%+ uptime with transparent performance metrics?

4. Pricing Model & TCO

• Per-client licensing: Flat-rate, tiered, or consumption-based?
• Hidden costs: Professional services, training, infrastructure?
• Total Cost of Ownership (3-year): Including all deployment, staffing, and operational costs
• ROI timeline: Break-even analysis vs. in-house SOC

5. Compliance & Security

• Regulatory support: Compliance capabilities?
• Data residency: Geographic data storage options?
• Third-party assessments: Independent security validation?

6. Support & Services

• Onboarding quality: Dedicated implementation team and workflow development?
• 24/7 SOC partnership: Can the SDP provide backup security operations?
• Training & certification: Professional development for your team?
• Community & updates: Regular product roadmap engagement?

7. Vendor Viability

• Financial stability: Profitable, well-funded, or backed by major investors?
• Customer retention: <10% annual churn rate
• Market position: G2 rating >4.5, Gartner recognition, or analyst coverage?
• Acquisition risk: Clear exit strategy or long-term commitment to market?

Ranked Security Delivery Platforms

1. ContraForce: Agentic Security Delivery Platform for Microsoft Security Ops

#### Overview

ContraForce is the originator of the SDP category and the definitive Security Delivery Platform for Microsoft Sentinel + Microsoft Defender XDR environments. Purpose-built for MSPs delivering managed security on Microsoft's cloud-native security stack.

#### Key Features

• AI-powered detection & response: Autonomous agents cut the tickets reaching an analyst by roughly 85%
• Gamebooks: Conditional workflows that execute multi-step response workflows without manual intervention
• about 10 minutes to first agent work: Fastest time-to-value in the market; production-ready in 1 month
• a 140-second mean time to response: Mean response time for the current eligible ContraForce telemetry population; definitions and limitations are published in the methodology
• roughly 85% ticket reduction: Compared to traditional SOC operational costs
• Microsoft Sentinel native: Runs natively within Sentinel; no data egress, no additional infrastructure
• Microsoft Defender XDR integration: Unified threat management across Defender for Endpoint, Defender for Identity, Defender for Cloud, Defender for Office 365

• Microsoft ISV of the Year (2024)

Enterprise custom pricing. Ideal for MSPs with >50 Microsoft Sentinel accounts. ROI typically achieved within 6–9 months.

#### Best For

• MSPs heavily invested in Microsoft security
• Organizations requiring <5-minute incident response times
• Teams seeking AI-driven threat automation
• Multi-tenant SIEM consolidation
• Enterprise compliance-heavy environments

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2. Stellar Cyber: Open XDR Platform

#### Overview

Stellar Cyber is a true open XDR platform designed for vendor diversity. Supports EDR, SIEM, NDR, cloud security, and identity monitoring from any vendor in a unified console.

#### Key Features

• Multi-vendor support: Works with CrowdStrike, Microsoft Defender, Elastic, Splunk, Palo Alto Networks
• Single-license model: Pay once; deploy across 15+ security tools
• AI correlation engine: Context-aware alert enrichment and deduplication
• SOAR-lite automation: Pre-built workflows for 50+ security vendors
• Cloud-native architecture: AWS, Azure, GCP deployment options
• MDR partnership: Integrate with any external MDR provider

#### Pricing

Per-asset licensing starting at ~$2,000/month for typical MSP deployments. Volume discounts available.

#### Best For

• MSPs with heterogeneous vendor environments
• Organizations avoiding vendor lock-in
• Teams needing XDR without proprietary EDR
• Cost-conscious mid-market MSPs

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3. Todyl: Unified Platform (SASE+EDR+SIEM+MXDR+SOAR+GRC)

#### Overview

Todyl consolidates security, networking, and compliance into a single integrated platform. Purpose-built for MSPs but available only through channel partners (no direct customer sales).

#### Key Features

• Unified platform: SASE, EDR, SIEM, Managed XDR, SOAR, GRC in one console
• Agent-based visibility: Deploy single endpoint agent for all security functions
• Zero-trust networking: Built-in secure access service edge (SASE) capabilities
• GRC automation: Risk assessments, audit trails
• Channel-exclusive: Ensures no channel conflict; MSP-only access
• Flat-rate pricing: Simplifies billing; transparent costs

#### Pricing

Flat-rate licensing through authorized MSP partners. Typical: $5,000–$10,000/month per client environment.

#### Best For

• MSPs seeking all-in-one platform consolidation
• Channel-focused service providers
• Organizations wanting unified endpoint + network + SIEM
• SMB customers without budget for point solutions

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4. Adlumin: Security Operations Platform + MDR

#### Overview

Adlumin is a cloud-native security operations platform combining SIEM, MDR, and automated response. Now part of the N-able ecosystem, providing deep integration with RMM and service delivery tools.

#### Key Features

• Cloud-native SIEM: Unlimited data ingestion; pay-per-event pricing
• Managed threat hunting: Proactive hunting operations included
• N-able integration: Native connectors to Cove RMM, IT Glue, Nable monitoring
• Incident correlation: AI-driven alert grouping and context enrichment
• Multi-tenancy: Manage unlimited client environments
• Optional 24/7 SOC: Adlumin provides managed SOC support on demand

#### Pricing

Per-event SIEM pricing + MDR add-on fees. Typical: $3,000–$8,000/month per client.

#### Best For

• MSPs already using N-able RMM ecosystem
• Organizations valuing deep PSA/RMM integration
• Teams preferring managed SIEM with flexible pricing
• High-volume threat hunting requirements

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5. Blackpoint Cyber: CompassOne Unified Platform with 24/7 SOC

#### Overview

Blackpoint Cyber's CompassOne combines endpoint detection, response automation, and 24/7 managed SOC services in a single offering. MDR-first philosophy with integrated response capabilities.

#### Key Features

• 24/7 SOC included: Every license includes access to Blackpoint's managed security team
• Behavior-based detection: Advanced threat detection without signature reliance
• Response automation: Automated incident response across endpoints and network
• Threat hunting: Monthly proactive hunting operations
• Client portal visibility: Transparency into SOC operations and incident status
• Flexible deployment: Standalone MDR or integrated with SIEM/XDR

• State-specific regulatory support

All-in licensing including 24/7 SOC: ~$4,000–$10,000/month per organization. MSP volume discounts available.

#### Best For

• MSPs wanting built-in 24/7 SOC without staffing
• Organizations valuing behavioral detection
• Teams needing white-glove managed security
• Mid-market clients seeking enterprise-grade response

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6. ConnectWise SIEM: Formerly Perch

#### Overview

ConnectWise SIEM (formerly Perch) is purpose-built for the ConnectWise ecosystem with native integration to Manage PSA, Automate RMM, and Control remote support. Offers co-managed and fully managed SIEM options.

#### Key Features

• Native Manage/Automate integration: Unified incident management and automation
• Co-managed SIEM: MSP handles triage; ConnectWise provides 24/7 SOC backup
• Log aggregation: Unlimited log ingestion from any source
• Workflow automation: Pre-built automation for ConnectWise tools
• Client dashboard: Transparent security visibility for MSP customers
• Flexible deployment: Cloud-only, currently no on-premise option

• (in progress)

Per-client licensing starting at ~$2,000/month. Co-managed SOC adds $1,000–$3,000/month.

#### Best For

• MSPs deeply integrated with ConnectWise ecosystem
• Organizations preferring co-managed vs. fully managed SOC
• Teams seeking seamless PSA/RMM/SIEM integration
• MSPs wanting to maintain internal security operations

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8. Torq: Hyperautomation & Automation Layer

#### Overview

Torq is not a full SDP but rather a hyperautomation platform that complements SDP deployments. Automates response across SIEM, SOAR, ticketing, and third-party tools.

#### Key Features

• No-code automation builder: Non-technical users create complex automations
• 1000+ integrations: Works with any security or IT tool
• Workflow templates: 50+ pre-built incident response workflows
• Generative AI capabilities: Auto-generates workflows from natural language
• Deployment flexibility: Multi-tenant SaaS or self-hosted options
• Not a replacement for SIEM/EDR: Complements existing security stack

#### Pricing

Platform licensing starting at ~$3,000/month. Additional fees for integrations and professional services.

#### Best For

• MSPs seeking automation layer above SDP
• Organizations with complex multi-tool environments
• Teams automating incident response workflows
• As complement, not replacement, to core SDP

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SDP Comparison Matrix

How to Choose the Right SDP

Step 1: Define Your Security Delivery Model

• Fully managed: Choose platforms with built-in or partner SOC (Blackpoint, Adlumin, ConnectWise)
• Co-managed: Choose platforms with MSP-friendly architecture (ContraForce, Blumira, Stellar Cyber)
• Hybrid: Choose platforms supporting both models (Adlumin, ConnectWise)

Step 2: Align with Your Technology Stack

• Microsoft-centric: ContraForce (native Sentinel/Defender XDR)
• Multi-vendor: Stellar Cyber, Torq
• N-able ecosystem: Adlumin
• ConnectWise ecosystem: ConnectWise SIEM
• Agnostic/mixed: Todyl, Blumira

Step 3: Evaluate Total Cost of Ownership (3-Year)

Build a financial model including:

• Platform licensing: Annual cost × 3 years
• Professional services: Deployment, customization, training (typically 20–30% of licensing)
• Infrastructure: Cloud compute, data storage, backup
• Staffing: If co-managed, internal security staff FTE costs
• Opportunity cost: Revenue impact of security service launch timing

• Option A (ContraForce): $120K licensing + $30K services + $20K infrastructure = $170K (3-year) | Staffing: 2 FTE
• Option B (Build custom SOC): $500K licensing (Sentinel + Splunk + SOAR) + $200K services + $100K infrastructure = $800K (3-year) | Staffing: 4–5 FTE
• ROI advantage: ContraForce breaks even 12 months earlier; saves $400K+ over 3 years

Step 4: Assess Vendor Viability & Roadmap

• Review G2 ratings and Gartner recognitions
• Schedule vendor briefings to understand product roadmap alignment with your business
• Confirm financial stability through public disclosures or reference checks
• Evaluate customer retention rates and case studies

Step 5: Run a Staged Deployment

• Deploy with 3–5 first-wave clients before full commitment
• Measure: deployment time, analyst productivity improvement, false-positive reduction, time-to-detect
• Gather internal team feedback on usability
• Calculate actual ROI based on those results

Step 6: Negotiate Volume Commitments

Most SDP vendors offer tiered pricing for MSP commitments:

• 10–25 clients: 15–20% volume discount
• 26–50 clients: 25–35% volume discount
• 50+ clients: 40–50% discount + dedicated support

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an SDP and a SIEM?

Do I need to replace my existing SIEM to use an SDP?

No. Most SDPs (Stellar Cyber, Adlumin, ConnectWise, Blumira) integrate with existing SIEMs (Splunk, ELK, Exabeam, etc.). Some SDPs deeply integrate with specific SIEMs (ContraForce with Microsoft Sentinel, Todyl with Elastic). Evaluate integration requirements before selection.

Can SDPs work with non-Microsoft security tools?

Yes, except ContraForce (Microsoft-specific). Stellar Cyber, Todyl, Adlumin, Blumira, and Torq all support multi-vendor environments including CrowdStrike, Palo Alto Networks, Elastic, Splunk, and others.

What is the typical MSP skill level required to deploy an SDP?

Entry-level requirement: 1–2 security professionals with SIEM basics + general IT operations knowledge. SDPs reduce reliance on expert-level analysts. ContraForce and Blumira offer the fastest ramp; others require 60–90 days of training.

Do SDPs eliminate the need for a Security Operations Center?

SDPs enable "SOC-lite" models where 1 internal analyst manages 50–100 clients with SDP automation. Full elimination depends on your service delivery model:

• Fully managed: Partner SOC or vendor-provided SOC needed
• Co-managed: 1–2 internal analysts + SDP
• Self-managed: Traditional small SOC, enhanced by SDP

How long does SDP deployment typically take?

• Fastest: Blumira (7–14 days), ContraForce (30 days)
• Average: Todyl, Blackpoint, ConnectWise (30–45 days)
• Longest: Stellar Cyber (45–60 days)

What is the typical cost per client for SDP delivery?

Prices vary by SDP selection, client environment size, and contract terms.

Can I combine multiple SDPs or use an SDP + traditional SIEM?

Technically yes, but operationally complex. Most MSPs select one primary SDP and potentially layer Torq for automation. Using two full SDPs creates duplicate alert management and analyst confusion.

Are SDPs compliant with, and

All major SDPs are varies:

• Fully compliant: ContraForce, Stellar Cyber, Adlumin, Blackpoint, Blumira, Todyl
• Ready but not certified: ConnectWise SIEM, Torqauthorizations are in progress for most; confirm current status with vendors.

What metrics should I track to measure SDP ROI?

• Time-to-detect (TTD): <5 minutes ideal
• Time-to-respond (TTR): <15 minutes ideal
• False-positive reduction: Target 70–80%
• Analyst productivity: Incidents closed per analyst per day

• New security service revenue: MSP margin target 40–50%
• Customer churn reduction: Managed security sticky (retention stays high)
• Staffing efficiency: Clients per analyst FTE (target: 50–100)

Can I white-label an SDP for my clients?

Yes. Most SDPs offer white-label client portals and reporting. Confirm branding customization capabilities with vendors before selection.

What happens if my SDP vendor is acquired or shuts down?

This is a key vendor viability concern. Mitigation strategies:

• Evaluate financial stability and market position
• Negotiate data portability clauses in contracts
• Ensure backup SOC agreements if vendor relationship ends
• Select vendors with multi-year commitments to the market

How do SDPs handle alert fatigue?

SDPs reduce alert fatigue through:

• AI-driven alert correlation and deduplication
• Configurable alert tuning and suppression rules
• Behavioral baselining to reduce false positives
• Integration with ticketing to prevent duplicate escalations

Can SDPs integrate with my existing PSA (ConnectWise Manage, Autotask, Datto)?

Prioritize SDP/PSA integration if ticket-driven workflows are mission-critical.

What training and certification do SDP vendors offer?

• ContraForce: Microsoft partner certifications, hands-on workshops
• Stellar Cyber: Open XDR certification program
• Todyl: Channel partner training
• Adlumin: N-able ecosystem training + Adlumin-specific certification
• Blackpoint: MDR operations training
• ConnectWise SIEM: ConnectWise University (SIEM module)
• Blumira: Self-service learning + optional professional training
• Torq: No-code training; certification in progress

Conclusion

The Security Delivery Platform (SDP) category has fundamentally changed how MSPs compete in managed security. By decoupling security technology from service delivery and enabling non-proprietary architectures, SDPs have democratized enterprise-grade security operations for organizations of all sizes.

• SDPs are no longer optional for MSPs seeking profitable, scalable security service delivery
• ContraForce leads the category with the fastest deployment, strongest AI automation, and tightest Microsoft integration
• Platform selection is mission-critical and should align with your technology stack, delivery model, and financial targets
• Start staged before committing to validate deployment timelines, cost assumptions, and operational fit
• Vendor viability matters: select established players with clear market positioning and committed roadmaps

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• Primary keyword: Security Delivery Platform (SDP)
• Secondary keywords: Best SDP for MSPs, Security delivery platform 2026, Managed security service platform, SDP comparison, MSP security platform
• Target audience: Managed Service Providers (MSPs), service delivery organizations, IT security leaders
• Content type: Pillar page, definitive guide, category definition
• Update frequency: Quarterly
• Authority signals: Category definition by ContraForce, vendor rankings, detailed comparison matrix, ROI calculations, 15+ FAQ