Question 1

What is the best open-source alternative to Lakera?

Accepted Answer

None of the listed alternatives are verified as open-source as of 2026, with most positioned as proprietary enterprise platforms. Tools like Guardrails AI and Galileo focus on runtime safety and agent guardrails through closed-source implementations suited for production use. For open-source needs, users may need to look beyond this curated list to model-based options like those mentioned in broader LLM security discussions.

Question 2

Is Guardrails AI better than Lakera?

Accepted Answer

Guardrails AI excels in runtime safety checks for production LLM apps, offering validation layers that complement Lakera's prompt injection focus. It suits teams needing customizable guardrails without heavy reliance on real-time red teaming. Choose Guardrails AI if your priority is developer-friendly integration for ongoing app security rather than Lakera's enterprise-scale data loss prevention.

Question 3

Is MCP Defender better than Lakera?

Accepted Answer

MCP Defender provides a real-time firewall specifically for MCP tool calls in AI apps, addressing agentic vulnerabilities where Lakera emphasizes broader prompt attacks. It positions as a targeted defense for tool integrations. Opt for MCP Defender over Lakera when securing AI workflows with external tool interactions is paramount.

Question 4

Can these alternatives handle Lakera's core features like prompt injection defense?

Accepted Answer

Yes, several alternatives cover prompt injection defense and data leakage prevention, often with added focuses like agent guardrails or governance. For instance, Guardrails AI and MCP Defender deliver real-time protections akin to Lakera's, while Credo AI extends to compliance monitoring. Full feature parity depends on your setup, but most align on essential AI app security needs.

Question 5

What is the best Lakera alternative for enterprise teams?

Accepted Answer

Credo AI stands out for enterprise teams with its platform for AI governance, risk monitoring, and compliance across the lifecycle. Enkrypt AI also fits well, securing and governing enterprise AI holistically. These tools provide broader oversight compared to Lakera's runtime focus, ideal for regulated environments needing auditability.

Question 6

What is the best Lakera alternative for AI agents?

Accepted Answer

Galileo is tailored for observing, evaluating, and guardrailing AI agents in production, directly addressing agentic security gaps. MCP Defender complements this with firewalls for tool calls in agent workflows. Both offer specialized protections beyond general prompt defense.

Question 7

How do I switch from Lakera to another tool?

Accepted Answer

Start by reviewing your Lakera API integrations and exporting any logs or configurations for reference. Map core protections like prompt guards to the new tool's features, such as Guardrails AI's validators or Galileo's agent monitors. Test in staging with similar traffic volumes, then monitor for coverage gaps in data leakage or injections before full migration.

Lakera

Top 41 Best Lakera Alternatives & Competitors (2026)

Alternatives to Lakera