Jetpack Protect / Jetpack WAF vs Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)
Both Jetpack Protect / Jetpack WAF and Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) are capable WAF solutions. The right choice depends on your specific infrastructure, budget, and feature requirements.
Overview
Jetpack Protect / Jetpack WAF 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.
WordPress security plugin by Automattic with built-in WAF, brute force protection, malware scanning, and downtime monitoring backed by WordPress.com infrastructure.
Comprehensive WordPress security plugin with Patchstack-powered firewall rules, virtual patching, two-factor authentication, and site scanning for proactive protection.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Jetpack Protect / Jetpack WAF | Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 4.0/5 | 4.1/5 |
| Free Tier | Yes | Yes |
| Pricing Model | Freemium (Free tier + paid subscriptions) | Freemium (Free tier + annual Pro license) |
| Ease of Use | 4.6/5 | 4.3/5 |
| Value for Money | 3.8/5 | 4.2/5 |
| Support | 4.0/5 | 4.0/5 |
| Open Source | Yes | Yes |
| Platforms | WordPress (self-hosted) | WordPress (self-hosted) |
Pricing Comparison
Jetpack Protect / Jetpack WAF
Model: Freemium (Free tier + paid subscriptions)
Free Tier AvailableFree
$0
Security
$9.95/month (billed yearly)
Complete
$24.95/month (billed yearly)
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
Jetpack Protect / Jetpack WAF
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Web Application Firewall
Endpoint firewall with automatically updated rules based on WordPress.com threat intelligence.
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Brute Force Protection
Blocks distributed brute force login attacks using data from millions of WordPress.com sites.
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Malware Scanning
Automated scanning for malware, suspicious code, and known vulnerabilities in plugins and themes.
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Real-Time Backups
Cloud-based backups with every change saved, enabling one-click restore if your site is compromised.
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Downtime Monitoring
Monitors site availability and sends instant alerts when your site goes offline.
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Activity Log
Detailed log of all site changes, logins, and security events for auditing and troubleshooting.
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.
Jetpack Protect / Jetpack WAF
- You need: WordPress site owners wanting an all-in-one solution from Automattic, sites already using Jetpack for other features, users who value simplicity and unified management
- You want to start with a free tier
- You prefer open-source solutions
- You're using: WordPress (self-hosted)
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: Jetpack Protect / Jetpack WAF or Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)?
Both Jetpack Protect / Jetpack WAF and Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) offer free tiers, making them accessible for startups. Jetpack Protect / Jetpack WAF scores higher for ease of use (4.6/5), which is valuable for smaller teams. Consider your immediate security needs and growth plans when choosing.
Which has better support: Jetpack Protect / Jetpack WAF or Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)?
Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) has a higher support rating (4.0/5) compared to Jetpack Protect / Jetpack WAF (4.0/5). 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: Jetpack Protect / Jetpack WAF or Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)?
Jetpack Protect / Jetpack WAF scores higher for ease of use (4.6/5) versus Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) (4.3/5). The actual implementation effort depends on your existing infrastructure and team expertise.
Which is more cost-effective: Jetpack Protect / Jetpack WAF or Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)?
Both providers offer free tiers, making it easy to start without commitment. Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) scores higher for value (4.2/5). Total cost depends on your traffic volume, required features, and support level needs.
Which is better for WordPress: Jetpack Protect / Jetpack WAF or Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)?
Both Jetpack Protect / Jetpack WAF and Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) support WordPress sites. For WordPress-specific threats like plugin vulnerabilities and brute force attacks, look for providers with WordPress-specific rule sets.