1 min lesson
Managed service or self-hosted runner
Compare who owns setup, security, integrations and maintenance.
Step 1 of 2
Managed service compared with a self-hosted runner
When a buyer compares Cursor automations with an open-source runner such as OpenClaw, compare operating responsibility directly. Cursor provides cloud execution, repository navigation, artifacts and product controls. A self-hosted runner gives the customer more control over its setup, while the customer also owns the machine, integration, security and maintenance.
"When you compare Cursor with a self-hosted runner, start with responsibility. Cursor provides managed cloud execution, repository navigation, artifacts and product controls. With a self-hosted runner, you control the setup and own the machine, security, integrations and maintenance."
Do not dismiss self-hosting. A customer may need that control or already have the staff to operate it. Compare responsibilities and constraints without assuming one model fits every team.
A Cloud Agent run takes minutes because it works in the background and sends a notification when done. Since August 2026, Builds prepare the environment before a run, and Cursor reports starts about three times faster at no extra cost. Verify that current product claim before quoting it. Describe the workflow as asynchronous by design, not as instant.