ModSecurity Open Source WAF vs Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)
Both ModSecurity Open Source WAF and Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) are capable WAF solutions. The right choice depends on your specific infrastructure, budget, and feature requirements.
Overview
ModSecurity Open Source 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.
The original open source WAF engine powering countless applications, offering unmatched flexibility for those willing to manage their own security infrastructure.
Comprehensive WordPress security plugin with Patchstack-powered firewall rules, virtual patching, two-factor authentication, and site scanning for proactive protection.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | ModSecurity Open Source WAF | Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 4.0/5 | 4.1/5 |
| Free Tier | Yes | Yes |
| Pricing Model | Free (Open Source) | Freemium (Free tier + annual Pro license) |
| Ease of Use | 2.5/5 | 4.3/5 |
| Value for Money | 4.8/5 | 4.2/5 |
| Support | 3.0/5 | 4.0/5 |
| Open Source | Yes | Yes |
| Platforms | Apache, Nginx, IIS, Kubernetes (via Ingress), Docker, any platform via libmodsecurity | WordPress (self-hosted) |
| Compliance | N/A (varies by implementation) | Contact vendor |
Pricing Comparison
ModSecurity Open Source WAF
Model: Free (Open Source)
Free Tier AvailableCommunity Edition
Free
Commercial Support
Varies by vendor
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
ModSecurity Open Source WAF
-
OWASP Core Rule Set
Comprehensive, community-maintained rule set providing protection against OWASP Top 10 and more.
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Custom Rules
Powerful SecRule language for creating custom detection logic based on any request/response attribute.
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Real-Time Request Analysis
Inspect and analyze every HTTP transaction with access to full request and response data.
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Audit Logging
Detailed logging of security events for forensics, compliance, and monitoring.
-
Virtual Patching
Create temporary rules to protect against vulnerabilities while permanent fixes are developed.
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Data Loss Prevention
Inspect response bodies to prevent sensitive data leakage.
Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)
-
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).
-
Site Scanner
Checks for known malware, vulnerabilities in plugins and themes, and blocklist status.
-
File Change Detection
Monitors WordPress core files and alerts when unexpected changes are detected.
-
Security Dashboard
Unified dashboard showing security status, recent events, and actionable recommendations.
-
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.
ModSecurity Open Source WAF
- You need: Security teams with WAF expertise, organizations with strict budget constraints, those needing maximum customization, educational purposes
- You want to start with a free tier
- You prefer open-source solutions
- You're using: Apache, Nginx, IIS, Kubernetes (via Ingress), Docker, any platform via libmodsecurity
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: ModSecurity Open Source WAF or Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)?
Both ModSecurity Open Source WAF 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: ModSecurity Open Source WAF or Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)?
Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) has a higher support rating (4.0/5) compared to ModSecurity Open Source WAF (3.0/5). 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: ModSecurity Open Source WAF or Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)?
Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) scores higher for ease of use (4.3/5) versus ModSecurity Open Source WAF (2.5/5). The actual implementation effort depends on your existing infrastructure and team expertise.
Which is more cost-effective: ModSecurity Open Source WAF or Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)?
Both providers offer free tiers, making it easy to start without commitment. ModSecurity Open Source WAF scores higher for value (4.8/5). Total cost depends on your traffic volume, required features, and support level needs.
Which is better for WordPress: ModSecurity Open Source WAF or Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)?
Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) explicitly supports WordPress while ModSecurity Open Source WAF 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.