Comparison

HELM vs MCP gateways

MCP gateways route tool traffic. HELM decides whether the side effect may execute and signs the verdict.

MCP gateways

Where it helps

Routing, tool visibility, allowlists, and connector traffic control.

Boundary

Where it stops

A gateway can observe or block traffic, but it is not the whole authority loop for company outcomes.

HELM

What changes

HELM binds intent, policy, approval, execution, and receipt to the side effect.

Can an auditor verify the exact verdict offline without trusting the gateway console?