How does ShadowCradle compare to Datto SIRIS?

ShadowCradle and Datto SIRIS are both appliance-based backup platforms. ShadowCradle includes broader workload coverage such as Dropbox and Box backup, native database backup for SQL Server, Oracle, PostgreSQL, MySQL and MongoDB, and multi-site replication as a standard feature. Datto is a strong choice for MSP-managed environments and organizations already in the Kaseya ecosystem.

What workloads does ShadowCradle cover that Datto does not?

ShadowCradle includes native backup for Dropbox, Box, database engines (SQL Server, Oracle, PostgreSQL, MySQL, MongoDB), and a built-in centralized cloud management dashboard. These are either absent or available as separate products in the Datto ecosystem.

When is Datto a better fit than ShadowCradle?

Datto SIRIS is a strong fit for MSPs already standardized on the Kaseya ecosystem, teams that want vendor-managed appliance hardware, and environments where Kaseya PSA/RMM integrations are a priority. ShadowCradle is the better fit where broader workload coverage and simpler all-inclusive pricing matter.

Can ShadowCradle replace Datto for an MSP?

Yes. ShadowCradle was purpose-built for MSPs - per-appliance pricing that scales predictably, 30-minute deployment per client, centralized multi-site management, and native coverage for databases and cloud apps that Datto requires add-ons for.

Competitor Comparison

ShadowCradle vs. Datto SIRIS — Feature Comparison

An honest feature-by-feature comparison. Both are serious backup appliances. The right choice depends on your environment, team, and what features you actually need included vs. licensed separately.

All comparisons are based on publicly available product documentation and capabilities. Features may vary by product tier or region.

Choose ShadowCradle when...

You're an MSP wanting all workloads covered on a single per-appliance price
You protect Dropbox, Box, or Google Workspace data
You need application-consistent database backup
You want replication without a separate product license
You want a single-platform approach to all workloads

Datto SIRIS is a strong choice when...

You're already working with a Datto-certified MSP partner
Your environment is primarily VM and physical server workloads
Deep integration with the Kaseya management platform matters
You need the maturity and brand recognition of a large established vendor
Managed disaster recovery services are a priority

Feature Comparison

Feature availability based on standard product tiers. Some features require higher tiers or add-on licensing - verify with each vendor for your specific configuration.

Capability	ShadowCradle	Datto SIRIS
VM Backup & Recovery	✅	✅
Physical Server Backup	✅	✅
Database Backup (SQL, Oracle, PostgreSQL, MySQL, MongoDB)	✅	⚠️ Limited or add-on
Microsoft 365 Backup	✅	✅
Google Workspace Backup	✅	⚠️ Limited
Dropbox Backup	✅	❌
Box Backup	✅	❌
Multi-Site Replication	Included in appliance	⚠️ Separate product / module
Cloud Management Dashboard	Included in appliance	⚠️ Available at higher tiers
Setup & Onboarding	30-min guided wizard	⚠️ Partner-assisted setup typical
Specialist Required	Not required	⚠️ Partner training recommended
Pricing Model	Per-appliance, all-inclusive	Per-appliance + add-on modules
REST API	✅	⚠️ Partial
MSP Ecosystem / Integrations	Growing partner network	Extensive Kaseya ecosystem
Compliance Reporting	Included	⚠️ Varies by tier
Backup Security Scanning (Malware / Ransomware / Virus)	check - Free	⚠️ Requires additional Datto modules
Bare-Metal Restore	✅	✅
AES-256 Encryption	✅	✅

Category Deep-Dives

Workload Coverage

SHADOWCRADLE

✓Databases: SQL Server, Oracle, PostgreSQL, MySQL, MongoDB

✓VMs: VMware, Hyper-V, KVM, cloud VMs

✓Cloud apps: Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Dropbox, Box

✓Files, NAS, physical servers

DATTO SIRIS

·VMs: strong coverage across hypervisors

·Physical servers and files

·Microsoft 365: well-supported

·Google Workspace: limited

·Dropbox / Box: not supported natively

·Databases: limited application-consistent support

CONTEXT

ShadowCradle covers more workload types from a single appliance. For environments using Dropbox, Box, or non-Microsoft cloud storage, ShadowCradle removes the need for additional tools.

Replication & Multi-Site DR

SHADOWCRADLE

✓Multi-site replication built into every appliance

✓Multi-directional topologies supported

✓Automatic failover and recovery orchestration

✓No additional product licensing required

DATTO SIRIS

·Replication available via separate product tier

·Designed for MSP-managed environments

·Strong continuity features within Kaseya stack

·Additional licensing may be needed per site

CONTEXT

ShadowCradle includes replication in every appliance. Datto's replication capabilities are real and mature - but typically require their Continuity tier or additional modules.

Setup & Day-to-Day Operations

SHADOWCRADLE

✓30-minute interactive setup wizard

✓Automated workload discovery

✓No specialist knowledge required

✓Self-service, operator-friendly

DATTO SIRIS

·Feature-rich platform with many configuration options

·Typically onboarded through Datto-certified MSP partners

·Deep integration into managed service workflows

·Partner ecosystem provides setup and ongoing management

CONTEXT

ShadowCradle was built for MSPs - 30-minute deployment per client, centralized management across all sites, and per-appliance pricing that is straightforward to resell. Datto's strength is its Kaseya-integrated MSP ecosystem - a real advantage for shops already standardized on that stack.

Pricing Model & Add-Ons

SHADOWCRADLE

✓Single per-appliance price covers all workloads

✓Replication included - no extra license

✓Cloud management dashboard included

✓Compliance reporting included

DATTO SIRIS

·Per-appliance base pricing

·Replication / continuity may require higher product tier

·Cloud management features vary by tier

·Enterprise features available at higher license tiers

CONTEXT

ShadowCradle's model bundles features that are often modular in Datto's product lineup. Whether that's a better deal depends on which features you actually need.