Overview
BunkerWeb is a next-generation, open source Web Application Firewall that makes web services "secure by default." Built on NGINX, it combines the performance and flexibility of a proven web server with comprehensive WAF capabilities powered by ModSecurity and the OWASP Core Rule Set.
Unlike cloud-based WAFs, BunkerWeb is self-hosted, giving organizations complete control over their security infrastructure and data. It integrates seamlessly into existing environments including Docker, Kubernetes, and traditional Linux deployments, functioning as a security-focused reverse proxy.
The project stands out for its user-friendly approach to open source WAF. An intuitive web UI allows configuration without command-line expertise, while a robust plugin system enables extending functionality for specific use cases. The AGPLv3 license ensures it remains free and open.
Ratings Breakdown
Key Features
ModSecurity Integration
Built-in ModSecurity WAF with OWASP Core Rule Set for comprehensive protection against web application attacks.
Bot Protection
Block malicious bots with challenge-based verification using cookies, JavaScript tests, captchas, or third-party services.
Rate Limiting & DDoS Protection
Limit connections and requests from clients, automatically ban suspicious activities triggering abnormal HTTP status codes.
IP Reputation
Block known bad IPs using external blacklists and DNSBL integration.
Web UI Management
User-friendly graphical interface for configuration and monitoring without command-line expertise.
Plugin System
Extend functionality with official and community plugins including ClamAV antivirus, Coraza WAF, and notification integrations.
Pros & Cons
Pros
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Completely free and open source
AGPLv3 license with no licensing costs; full access to source code for customization.
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Self-hosted data control
Keep all traffic and logs on your own infrastructure with no third-party data sharing.
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User-friendly web UI
Modern graphical interface makes configuration accessible without deep CLI expertise.
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Flexible deployment
Native support for Docker, Kubernetes, Swarm, and traditional Linux installations.
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Active development
Regular updates with security fixes and new features; responsive community.
Cons
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Self-hosted complexity
Requires infrastructure setup and maintenance; no managed service option.
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Limited enterprise support
Professional support available but less comprehensive than commercial WAF vendors.
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Smaller community than ModSecurity
Newer project means fewer community resources and third-party integrations.
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Performance tuning required
Optimal performance requires understanding of NGINX and ModSecurity configuration.
Pricing
Pricing model: Free (Open Source) / Pro Support
Community Edition
Full-featured open source WAF
- Complete WAF engine
- ModSecurity + OWASP CRS
- Web UI management
- Docker/Kubernetes support
- Plugin system
- Community support
Pro Support
Professional support and services
- Everything in Community
- Professional support
- Priority bug fixes
- Custom development
- Training services
Our Verdict
BunkerWeb represents a new generation of open source WAF that prioritizes usability without sacrificing capability. By combining NGINX performance with ModSecurity protection and wrapping it in a user-friendly interface, it makes self-hosted WAF accessible to a broader audience.
The project is ideal for organizations that want complete control over their security infrastructure and data. While it requires more operational effort than cloud WAFs, the zero licensing cost and data sovereignty benefits make it compelling for privacy-conscious deployments.
Our verdict: Excellent open source WAF for teams comfortable with self-hosting who want modern tooling and a friendly UI. Best value option for budget-conscious security.
CVE Coverage
BunkerWeb Open Source WAF can detect and block attacks matching 87K+ known CVEs based on its supported rule sets.
Coverage by Attack Type
Latest Blockable CVEs
| CVE | Severity |
|---|---|
| CVE-2026-4510 | MEDIUM |
| CVE-2026-4161 | MEDIUM |
| CVE-2026-4087 | MEDIUM |
| CVE-2026-4086 | MEDIUM |
| CVE-2026-4084 | MEDIUM |
| CVE-2026-4077 | MEDIUM |
| CVE-2026-4072 | MEDIUM |
| CVE-2026-4069 | MEDIUM |
| CVE-2026-4067 | MEDIUM |
| CVE-2026-4022 | MEDIUM |
Frequently Asked Questions
How does BunkerWeb compare to ModSecurity alone?
BunkerWeb uses ModSecurity under the hood but adds significant value: a web UI for configuration, pre-configured security defaults, Docker/Kubernetes integration, plugin system, and automated updates. It's ModSecurity made accessible with modern deployment patterns.
Can BunkerWeb replace Cloudflare or AWS WAF?
BunkerWeb provides similar WAF protection but is self-hosted rather than cloud-based. It lacks the global CDN and DDoS absorption capacity of cloud providers. It's best for protecting origin servers or as part of a defense-in-depth strategy alongside cloud services.
Is BunkerWeb production-ready?
Yes, BunkerWeb is used in production environments. The project follows semantic versioning with regular security updates. For mission-critical deployments, consider their Pro Support option for guaranteed response times and priority fixes.
Ready to try BunkerWeb Open Source WAF?
Start with the free tier and upgrade as you grow.