BulletProof Security vs Qualys Web Application Firewall
Both BulletProof Security and Qualys Web Application Firewall are capable WAF solutions. The right choice depends on your specific infrastructure, budget, and feature requirements.
Overview
BulletProof Security and Qualys Web Application Firewall are both popular web application firewall solutions. This comparison will help you understand the key differences and choose the right one for your needs.
WordPress security plugin featuring .htaccess-based firewall protection, one-click setup wizard, login security, database backups, and a lifetime Pro license for unlimited sites.
Cloud-managed WAF from Qualys that integrates with their vulnerability scanning platform, enabling one-click virtual patching of discovered vulnerabilities. Note — product was decommissioned September 2024.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | BulletProof Security | Qualys Web Application Firewall |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 3.7/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Free Tier | Yes | No |
| Pricing Model | Free edition + one-time Pro license (lifetime) | Subscription, per-asset licensing (product decommissioned) |
| Ease of Use | 3.4/5 | 3.2/5 |
| Value for Money | 4.5/5 | 2.5/5 |
| Support | 3.5/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Platforms | WordPress (self-hosted) | VMware, Hyper-V, Docker, AWS, Azure, Google Cloud Platform |
| Compliance | Contact vendor | PCI DSS, SOC 2, FedRAMP, ISO 27001 (Qualys platform level) |
Pricing Comparison
BulletProof Security
Model: Free edition + one-time Pro license (lifetime)
Free Tier AvailableFree
$0
Pro (Lifetime)
$69.95 one-time
Qualys Web Application Firewall
Model: Subscription, per-asset licensing (product decommissioned)
Qualys WAF (Decommissioned)
Previously subscription-based
Features Comparison
BulletProof Security
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.htaccess Firewall
Server-level request filtering via Apache .htaccess rules blocking SQL injection, XSS, and code injection.
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Setup Wizard
One-click automated setup that configures .htaccess firewall rules without manual configuration.
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Login Security
Login monitoring, failed login lockout, and idle session logout to prevent unauthorized access.
-
MScan Malware Scanner
Scans for malware, modified files, and suspicious code with automated quarantine and restore (Pro).
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Database Backup
Scheduled and manual database backups with email notifications and backup management.
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Real-Time File Monitoring
Monitors file system changes in real-time and alerts on unauthorized modifications (Pro).
Qualys Web Application Firewall
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WAS Integration
Automatically generate WAF rules from Qualys Web Application Scanning results for one-click virtual patching.
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Cloud-Managed Appliance
Virtual appliance deployed locally but managed centrally through the Qualys Cloud Platform.
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Custom Security Policies
Flexible policy engine with reusable rules and templates for common platforms and custom applications.
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Pre-Built CMS Policies
Out-of-the-box protection policies for WordPress, Joomla, Drupal, SharePoint, and Outlook Web Application.
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Security Event Analytics
Detailed dashboards with traffic summaries, threat trends, and drill-down capabilities for incident investigation.
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Local Traffic Processing
Application traffic stays within your environment for minimal latency and full data control.
Which One Is Right for You?
The best WAF depends on your specific requirements, infrastructure, and team expertise.
BulletProof Security
- You need: WordPress agencies needing affordable security for many sites, Apache-hosted WordPress sites, budget-conscious users wanting lifetime licensing
- You want to start with a free tier
- You're using: WordPress (self-hosted)
Qualys Web Application Firewall
- You need: Historical reference; previously suited for Qualys platform customers wanting integrated vulnerability management and WAF
- You're using: VMware, Hyper-V, Docker, AWS, Azure, Google Cloud Platform
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: BulletProof Security or Qualys Web Application Firewall?
BulletProof Security offers a free tier while Qualys Web Application Firewall does not, which may be important for early-stage startups. BulletProof Security scores higher for ease of use (3.4/5), which is valuable for smaller teams. Consider your immediate security needs and growth plans when choosing.
Which has better support: BulletProof Security or Qualys Web Application Firewall?
Qualys Web Application Firewall has a higher support rating (3.5/5) compared to BulletProof Security (3.5/5). 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: BulletProof Security or Qualys Web Application Firewall?
BulletProof Security scores higher for ease of use (3.4/5) versus Qualys Web Application Firewall (3.2/5). The actual implementation effort depends on your existing infrastructure and team expertise.
Which is more cost-effective: BulletProof Security or Qualys Web Application Firewall?
BulletProof Security offers a free tier while Qualys Web Application Firewall requires a paid plan. BulletProof Security scores higher for value (4.5/5). Total cost depends on your traffic volume, required features, and support level needs.
Which works better with AWS: BulletProof Security or Qualys Web Application Firewall?
Qualys Web Application Firewall explicitly supports AWS while BulletProof Security's AWS integration may vary. Consider whether native AWS integration or cross-cloud portability matters more for your use case.