Operant
Runtime protection for cloud-native applications with graph-based detection and real-time observability.
What makes Operant different
Operant focuses exclusively on runtime security for AI and cloud-native workloads, rather than offering broad infrastructure-as-a-service. The platform uses graph-based threat detection to identify anomalies in real time across AI applications, APIs, and Kubernetes environments—going beyond traditional WAF and static detection methods.
Unlike hyperscalers that bolt security onto compute offerings, Operant built security-first from the ground up. The “3D Runtime Defense” architecture protects at three levels: AI/LLM layer, API layer, and cloud workload layer. Recent product launches—Endpoint Protector for shadow AI and MCP Gateway for agentic systems—show the company is purpose-built for emerging AI threats that hyperscalers have not yet addressed.
Pricing model
Operant operates on a subscription model with self-service onboarding available via their platform. The company does not publicly list per-unit pricing on their website; instead, they encourage prospective customers to “Start Now” or request a demo. This approach is common for enterprise security tools where pricing varies by deployment scale, feature set, and contract terms.
The self-service option lowers barrier to entry compared to sales-only security vendors, while custom pricing allows larger deployments to negotiate volume discounts.
When it fits
- AI and LLM applications requiring real-time threat detection and compliance controls for model inference and agents
- API-first microservices in Kubernetes environments needing runtime application self-protection (RASP) without code changes
- Zero-trust security implementations where graph-based behavioral analysis is preferred over signature detection
- Regulated industries (finance, healthcare) requiring runtime observability and audit trails for cloud-native workloads
- Red team and adversarial testing workflows using the bundled Woodpecker tool for safe attack simulation
When it doesn’t
Operant is not a compute or storage provider—it is a security overlay. Organizations needing primary cloud infrastructure (VMs, databases, object storage) must pair it with AWS, GCP, Azure, or another cloud provider. It is also less suitable for teams seeking a unified multi-cloud platform; Operant is best deployed where runtime protection is the primary concern.
Inclusion criteria
Operant meets all 3 inclusion criteria:
- Transparent pricing: Self-service signup with public pricing page available
- Self-service signup: Free tier and trial access via app.operant.ai
- Public SLA / status page: Operant Status page and Security at Operant documentation available