Overview
CDNetworks is a global content delivery network and cloud security provider founded in 2000, offering a comprehensive web application firewall as part of its Application Shield product suite. With over 1,500 points of presence across five continents, CDNetworks provides both content acceleration and security services from a unified platform.
The CDNetworks WAF uses signature-based detection combined with behavioral analysis to protect web applications against OWASP Top 10 threats, zero-day exploits, and application-layer DDoS attacks. Its tight integration with the CDN layer means security filtering happens at the edge, minimizing latency while maximizing protection coverage.
CDNetworks has a particularly strong network presence in China, South Korea, and other Asian markets, making it an attractive option for businesses that need both performance and security in regions where Western CDN providers may have limited infrastructure. The platform also includes bot management, API protection, and managed security services.
Ratings Breakdown
Key Features
Edge-Based WAF
WAF filtering at 1,500+ global edge locations for low-latency protection close to end users.
DDoS Protection
Multi-layer DDoS mitigation covering network (L3/L4) and application (L7) layer attacks.
Bot Management
Identify and manage automated traffic including scrapers, credential stuffers, and inventory hoarders.
API Protection
Secure APIs against abuse, injection attacks, and unauthorized access with dedicated API security rules.
Virtual Patching
Quickly mitigate known vulnerabilities without modifying application code.
Real-Time Analytics
Comprehensive dashboards showing attack trends, blocked requests, and traffic patterns.
Pros & Cons
Pros
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Strong Asian network presence
Excellent CDN and security coverage in China, South Korea, and Southeast Asia where other providers struggle.
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Integrated CDN + WAF
Single platform for both content delivery and security reduces complexity and latency.
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Global edge network
1,500+ PoPs worldwide provide extensive coverage for multinational deployments.
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Managed security option
Available managed security services for organizations lacking in-house WAF expertise.
Cons
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Opaque pricing
No public pricing; requires contacting sales for quotes, making it hard to compare costs.
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Less known in Western markets
Lower brand recognition compared to Cloudflare, Akamai, or AWS WAF in North America and Europe.
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Limited public documentation
Documentation and community resources are less extensive than major competitors.
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Fewer integrations
Ecosystem of third-party integrations is smaller than market leaders.
Pricing
Pricing model: Custom pricing, usage-based
Application Shield Standard
WAF protection with CDN integration
- OWASP Top 10 protection
- DDoS mitigation
- CDN acceleration
- SSL/TLS support
Application Shield Advanced
Advanced WAF with bot management and API protection
- Everything in Standard
- Bot management
- API protection
- Custom rule sets
- Managed security services
Our Verdict
CDNetworks WAF is a solid choice for organizations that need web application protection with strong Asian network coverage. The integrated CDN+WAF approach reduces complexity, and the global edge network provides good performance worldwide.
However, the lack of transparent pricing and lower brand recognition in Western markets may give pause to some buyers. Organizations primarily serving North American or European audiences may find better value with more established WAF providers.
Our verdict: Best suited for enterprises with significant Asian traffic that want a single vendor for CDN and WAF services.
CVE Coverage
CDNetworks Application Shield can detect and block attacks matching 81K+ 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
Does CDNetworks WAF work well in China?
Yes, CDNetworks has one of the strongest CDN and security networks in China, with proper ICP licensing and local infrastructure. This makes it an excellent choice for businesses that need to serve and protect web applications for Chinese audiences.
Can I use CDNetworks WAF without their CDN?
The WAF is tightly integrated with CDNetworks' CDN infrastructure. While technically possible to use some security features independently, the product is designed and priced as an integrated solution. You get the most value by using both together.
Ready to try CDNetworks Application Shield?
Visit the website to learn more or request a demo.