Build vs Buy vs Existing Controls
IAM, SIEM and application controls remain useful. Compare the work required at the tool-call boundary.
| Capability | IAM | Logs / SIEM | Per-MCP-server controls | AgentGate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-execution blocking | Yes, within its authorization boundary | Usually detection; response integrations vary | Possible if implemented | Yes, for routed calls |
| Tool argument context | Depends on application integration | Only fields actually collected | Available to the server | Inspected with pattern-based redaction |
| Central policy management | Yes for supported resources | Detection / response rules | Requires shared implementation | Built-in safeguards and validated executable custom rules |
| Human approval | Product / integration dependent | Response workflow dependent | Custom implementation | Exact-request, expiring approval tokens |
| Agent attribution | Requires distinct identities | Depends on source events | Requires identity propagation | Registered agent credential attribution |
| Immutable audit evidence | Storage / configuration dependent | WORM possible with configured storage | Must be built and operated | Append-only application trail; external WORM not implemented |
| MCP-specific governance | Requires MCP-aware integration | Requires MCP event mapping | Native per-server context | MCP routing, tool inventory and decisions |
When to build
A small number of stable MCP servers and an established authorization service may justify custom checks. Budget for identity propagation, request binding, expiry, replay prevention, fail-closed tests, schema changes and evidence exports.
When to use AgentGate
Use a shared gateway when multiple agents and tools need a consistent review surface. Include deployment operations, bypass resistance and upstream compatibility in the rollout. A gateway does not replace database privileges, release approvals or SIEM monitoring.
Comparison describes control categories, not every vendor product. AgentGate claims are grounded in the current implementation; validate them in your deployment.
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Plan a managed, private or self-hosted deployment.