Barracuda Networks vs Expel: MDR Comparison 2026
Barracuda Networks (MSP-channel) and Expel (Pure-play MDR) take different approaches to managed detection and response. Barracuda Networks works with your existing tools, while Expel works with your existing tools. Barracuda Networks targets SMB, Mid-market, and Enterprise organizations; Expel focuses on Mid-market and Enterprise.
Key Differences at a Glance
Winner by Category
Barracuda Networks vs Expel: Which Should You Choose?
Choose Barracuda Networks if:
- •MSPs needing a white-label/managed XDR for SMB clients
- •SMBs that don't have a security team and want turnkey coverage
- •Organizations using Microsoft 365 and needing email + endpoint coverage
- •Threat hunting included in base pricing (it's an add-on with Expel)
Choose Expel if:
- •Mid-market and enterprise organizations with existing security tool investments wanting to maximize ROI
- •Tech-forward security teams that value transparency and want to see every SOC action
- •Multi-cloud and hybrid environments needing broad integration coverage
- •You want direct Slack integration with your SOC
Bottom line: Barracuda Networks (MSP-channel) and Expel (Pure-play MDR) serve different buyer profiles. Your decision depends on whether you prioritize Barracuda Networks's purpose-built for the msp channel or Expel's strong transparency and integration breadth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between Barracuda Networks and Expel?
Barracuda Networks is a MSP-channel that is technology-agnostic (works with your existing tools). Expel is a Pure-play MDR that is technology-agnostic (works with your existing tools). SLA commitments differ: Barracuda Networks offers ≤1 hour, Expel offers Not disclosed.
How do Barracuda Networks and Expel differ in response capabilities?
Barracuda Networks supports 6 autonomous actions (endpoint isolation, process termination, network containment, account disable, file quarantine, custom playbooks) and approval is configurable. Expel supports 6 autonomous actions (endpoint isolation, process termination, network containment, account disable, file quarantine, custom playbooks) and approval is configurable. Incident response is included with Barracuda Networks and not included with Expel.
How does Barracuda Networks pricing compare to Expel?
Barracuda Networks pricing: ~$14.50/endpoint/year (3-year endpoint); ~$8–$20/user/month depending on coverage scope. Minimum 25 licenses. (25-seat minimum). Expel pricing: Starting at $11,640/year; custom quotes based on environment. Watch for with Barracuda Networks: Security logs not available for download — limits forensic independence; MSP-focused pricing may differ from direct enterprise pricing. Watch for with Expel: Threat hunting is NOT included in base MDR -- it is an add-on service; Price increases announced for 2025.
Should I choose Barracuda Networks or Expel?
Choose Barracuda Networks if: mSPs needing a white-label/managed XDR for SMB clients. Choose Expel if: mid-market and enterprise organizations with existing security tool investments wanting to maximize ROI. Barracuda Networks is not ideal for enterprises wanting full data access and log export capabilities. Expel is not ideal for organizations wanting a single-vendor platform-native MDR (Expel requires existing security tools).