Air-Gapped Deployments: The Build vs Buy Decision

Air-gapped deployments, which require software to operate in environments without internet access and with strict controls, present a strategic rather than purely technical challenge for software vendors. While initially, building an in-house solution for air-gapped deployments might seem feasible for teams accustomed to creating container images and maintaining Helm charts, the complexity and operational burden increase significantly over time as customer requirements and environments diversify. Opting to buy a dedicated air-gap distribution solution can provide consistent installation experiences, scalable support, and allow engineering teams to focus on core product development rather than maintaining complicated packaging pipelines. As air-gapped environments become a significant revenue stream, purchasing a purpose-built system becomes a pragmatic choice, enabling companies to meet deployment requirements, enhance customer experience, and scale efficiently without turning distribution into a competing product focus.