Managed detection and response provider delivering 24/7 security monitoring and transparent incident response.
Expel is a leading managed detection and response (MDR) provider that helps renowned brands expel adversaries, minimize risk, and build security resilience. With 24/7/365 coverage and a transparent AI-driven platform, Expel augments existing security programs to maximize investments and build trust with customers, partners, and employees.
Our take on Expel
Expel has established itself as an innovative managed detection and response provider since its 2016 founding, challenging traditional MSSP models with transparency and customer enablement. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, Expel was founded by former Mandiant executives who recognized that organizations needed better ways to operationalize their security tools. The company serves over 800 customers with a distributed team of security analysts.
Expel's MDR service requires customers to have existing security tools (SIEM, EDR, network detection, cloud security) which Expel then monitors 24/7. Rather than requiring Expel's proprietary technology, they integrate with customers' chosen platforms. Their transparent approach includes Expel Workbench, a portal where customers see every alert, investigation, and action Expel takes. Analysts provide detailed context and remediation guidance. Expel's service includes threat hunting, incident response coordination, and security engineering recommendations.
The company differentiates through radical transparency - customers see exactly what Expel's analysts do and can learn from their investigations. This enables customer security teams to improve their own capabilities over time rather than remaining dependent on the MSSP. Expel's integration-first approach means faster deployment than solutions requiring appliances or agents. They've maintained strong customer satisfaction scores and analyst ratings. However, the requirement for existing security tools means customers must make those investments separately.
For organizations that have invested in security tools but lack the people and expertise to monitor them effectively, Expel provides expert-led MDR that enhances rather than replaces internal capabilities. Their transparent approach suits security teams wanting to build skills while outsourcing 24/7 coverage. Best fit for mid-market to enterprise organizations with security tools deployed but insufficient staffing for round-the-clock monitoring and response.
Verified credentials and recognition earned by Expel
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This agency has a verified website presence.
LinkedIn Verified
This agency has a verified LinkedIn company page.
Top Rated
This agency has an exceptional AgencyCluster score of 80+.
10+ Years
Established in 2016. Over 10 years of experience.
Large Team
Large (201-500)
Rankings earned on AgencyCluster
Common questions about Expel.
Expel has earned rankings on 3 AgencyCluster lists: Top 25 Cybersecurity Services, Top 10 Cybersecurity Services in Virginia, Top 50 Cybersecurity Services. Their highest AgencyCluster Score is 96/100. Rankings are merit-based and determined by evidence across six evaluation pillars — agencies cannot pay for higher positions.
In our evaluation for Cybersecurity Services, Expel scores 96/100 overall. Their strongest areas are Proof of Work & Outcomes, Reputation, Category Fit, Delivery Maturity, Freshness, Credibility. A high Outcomes score means they have verifiable case studies with measurable results — the most heavily weighted factor in our methodology.
Expel was founded in 2016, giving them over a decade of experience in cybersecurity services. In an industry where many agencies are less than 5 years old, 10+ years of sustained operations signals stability, client retention, and the ability to adapt through multiple technology cycles. Today, the team is large team.
Penetration testing engagements cost $10K–$60K depending on scope. Security assessments and compliance readiness range from $20K–$100K. Managed security retainers (continuous monitoring, incident response) run $5K–$30K/month. These are industry benchmarks for cybersecurity services agencies at the level AgencyCluster curates. Actual pricing for Expel will depend on project scope, timeline, and complexity — contact the agency directly for a custom quote.
Yes. Expel has been vetted and verified by AgencyCluster's editorial team through a rigorous, multi-factor review process. Unlike self-serve directories, AgencyCluster does not accept automated submissions — every agency is evaluated manually before being published. Our vetting covers identity verification (website, LinkedIn, domain age), business legitimacy (years of operation, team size, registered presence), evidence of work (case studies, portfolio, client outcomes), reputation checks across third-party platforms, activeness and freshness of their online presence, and screening for red flags including misconduct, fraud, or misleading claims. Agencies that fail any critical check are not listed. For Expel, verified signals include a functioning website, LinkedIn company profile, 10+ years of operating history (founded 2016), 3 earned rankings on curated top lists.
