BitNinja Server Security vs Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)
BitNinja Server Security and Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) take different approaches to web application security. Consider your team's expertise and infrastructure preferences when evaluating these options.
BitNinja Server Security and Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) take fundamentally different approaches to web application security. Understanding your infrastructure and team capabilities will help determine which approach fits your needs.
Overview
BitNinja Server Security and Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) are both popular web application firewall solutions. This comparison will help you understand the key differences and choose the right one for your needs.
All-in-one server security platform with built-in WAF, malware scanning, IP reputation, and DDoS protection. Popular with hosting providers and sysadmins managing shared hosting environments.
Comprehensive WordPress security plugin with Patchstack-powered firewall rules, virtual patching, two-factor authentication, and site scanning for proactive protection.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | BitNinja Server Security | Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 3.9/5 | 4.1/5 |
| Free Tier | Yes | Yes |
| Pricing Model | Per server / Usage-based | Freemium (Free tier + annual Pro license) |
| Ease of Use | 4.2/5 | 4.3/5 |
| Value for Money | 4.4/5 | 4.2/5 |
| Support | 3.8/5 | 4.0/5 |
| Open Source | No | Yes |
| Platforms | Linux (CentOS, AlmaLinux, Ubuntu, Debian, CloudLinux) | WordPress (self-hosted) |
Pricing Comparison
BitNinja Server Security
Model: Per server / Usage-based
Free Tier AvailableFree (VPS)
Free
Standard
Usage-based (from ~$10/server/month)
Enhance Control Panel
$0.10/website (min $5)
Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)
Model: Freemium (Free tier + annual Pro license)
Free Tier AvailableFree
$0
Pro (1 site)
$99/year (~$8.25/month)
Pro (multi-site)
From $199/year
Features Comparison
BitNinja Server Security
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WAF 2.0
Caddy-based reverse proxy WAF with per-domain customizable protection levels and CMS-specific rulesets for WordPress, Joomla, and Drupal.
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AI Malware Scanner
AI-powered file scanner that detects and removes malware, backdoors, and infected files on the server.
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IP Reputation Network
Global threat intelligence network that shares IP reputation data across all BitNinja installations in real-time.
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DDoS Protection
Kernel-level DoS detection that auto-blacklists IPs exceeding connection thresholds.
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Brute-Force Prevention
Protects SSH, FTP, cPanel, WordPress, and other login endpoints from brute-force attacks.
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Outbound WAF
Scans outgoing connections from the server to detect compromised sites sending spam or attack traffic.
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Port Scan Detection
Honeypot system that detects port scanning attempts and globally blacklists scanning IPs.
Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)
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Patchstack Firewall
Virtual patching rules powered by Patchstack that protect against known plugin and theme vulnerabilities automatically.
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Two-Factor Authentication
Multiple 2FA methods including authenticator apps, email codes, and backup codes for all user roles.
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Passwordless Login
Login via passkeys and biometrics, eliminating password-based attacks entirely (Pro feature).
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Site Scanner
Checks for known malware, vulnerabilities in plugins and themes, and blocklist status.
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File Change Detection
Monitors WordPress core files and alerts when unexpected changes are detected.
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Security Dashboard
Unified dashboard showing security status, recent events, and actionable recommendations.
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Trusted Devices
Recognizes trusted devices and restricts admin access from unknown devices (Pro feature).
Which One Is Right for You?
The best WAF depends on your specific requirements, infrastructure, and team expertise.
BitNinja Server Security
- You need: Hosting providers managing shared servers, sysadmins running cPanel or Plesk, VPS owners wanting free server security, WordPress hosting environments
- You want to start with a free tier
- You're using: Linux (CentOS, AlmaLinux, Ubuntu, Debian, CloudLinux)
Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)
- You need: WordPress agencies managing multiple sites, users wanting modern authentication features like passkeys, sites needing automatic virtual patching for plugin vulnerabilities
- You want to start with a free tier
- You prefer open-source solutions
- You're using: WordPress (self-hosted)
We recommend evaluating both options with a trial or free tier before committing. Consider your existing infrastructure, team expertise, compliance requirements, and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for startups: BitNinja Server Security or Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)?
Both BitNinja Server Security and Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) offer free tiers, making them accessible for startups. Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) scores higher for ease of use (4.3/5), which is valuable for smaller teams. Consider your immediate security needs and growth plans when choosing.
Which has better support: BitNinja Server Security or Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)?
Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) has a higher support rating (4.0/5) compared to BitNinja Server Security (3.8/5). However, support quality can vary based on your plan tier - enterprise customers typically receive more responsive support from both providers. Consider evaluating support during a trial period.
Which is easier to implement: BitNinja Server Security or Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)?
Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) scores higher for ease of use (4.3/5) versus BitNinja Server Security (4.2/5). The actual implementation effort depends on your existing infrastructure and team expertise.
Which is more cost-effective: BitNinja Server Security or Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)?
Both providers offer free tiers, making it easy to start without commitment. BitNinja Server Security scores higher for value (4.4/5). Total cost depends on your traffic volume, required features, and support level needs.
Which is better for WordPress: BitNinja Server Security or Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)?
Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) explicitly supports WordPress while BitNinja Server Security takes a more platform-agnostic approach. For WordPress-specific threats like plugin vulnerabilities and brute force attacks, look for providers with WordPress-specific rule sets.