Nexusguard Application Protection vs Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)
Nexusguard Application Protection 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.
Nexusguard Application Protection 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
Nexusguard Application Protection 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.
DDoS mitigation specialist for communications service providers and APAC enterprises, with web application firewall capability layered into its Application Protection product rather than sold as a standalone WAF.
Comprehensive WordPress security plugin with Patchstack-powered firewall rules, virtual patching, two-factor authentication, and site scanning for proactive protection.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Nexusguard Application Protection | Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 3.6/5 | 4.1/5 |
| Free Tier | No | Yes |
| Pricing Model | Custom enterprise pricing | Freemium (Free tier + annual Pro license) |
| Ease of Use | 3.5/5 | 4.3/5 |
| Value for Money | 3.4/5 | 4.2/5 |
| Support | 3.8/5 | 4.0/5 |
| Open Source | No | Yes |
| Platforms | Any web application (cloud-based proxy) | WordPress (self-hosted) |
| Compliance | SOC 2, ISO 27001, PCI DSS | Contact vendor |
Pricing Comparison
Nexusguard Application Protection
Model: Custom enterprise pricing
Enterprise
Custom pricing
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
Nexusguard Application Protection
-
DDoS Threat Intelligence
Proprietary threat intelligence from monitoring global DDoS attack patterns.
-
CSP Protection
Specialized solutions for communications service providers.
Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)
-
Patchstack Firewall
Virtual patching rules powered by Patchstack that protect against known plugin and theme vulnerabilities automatically.
-
Two-Factor Authentication
Multiple 2FA methods including authenticator apps, email codes, and backup codes for all user roles.
-
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.
Nexusguard Application Protection
- You need: Service providers, APAC enterprises, organizations needing combined WAF and DDoS protection
- You're using: Any web application (cloud-based proxy)
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: Nexusguard Application Protection or Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)?
Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) offers a free tier while Nexusguard Application Protection does not, making Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) more accessible for budget-conscious 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: Nexusguard Application Protection or Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)?
Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) has a higher support rating (4.0/5) compared to Nexusguard Application Protection (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: Nexusguard Application Protection or Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)?
Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) scores higher for ease of use (4.3/5) versus Nexusguard Application Protection (3.5/5). The actual implementation effort depends on your existing infrastructure and team expertise.
Which is more cost-effective: Nexusguard Application Protection or Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)?
Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) offers a free tier while Nexusguard Application Protection requires a paid plan. 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: Nexusguard Application Protection or Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security)?
Solid Security (formerly iThemes Security) explicitly supports WordPress while Nexusguard Application Protection 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.