Overview
Vercel Firewall is the built-in security layer of the Vercel platform, the hosting service widely used for Next.js, React, and other frontend framework deployments. Unlike standalone WAF products, Vercel Firewall is deeply integrated into the deployment platform, running at the edge across Vercel's global network.
The firewall provides DDoS protection, bot management, rate limiting, IP blocking, and configurable security rules. For most Vercel users, basic protection is automatic and requires no configuration. Advanced rules can be set through the Vercel dashboard or infrastructure-as-code via vercel.json configuration.
Vercel Firewall is purpose-built for the modern frontend stack. It understands Vercel's serverless functions, edge middleware, and ISR (Incremental Static Regeneration) patterns, providing security that is aware of how modern web applications work rather than treating all traffic as generic HTTP requests.
Ratings Breakdown
Key Features
Edge-Based Protection
Firewall runs at the edge across Vercel''s global network, blocking threats before they reach origin servers or serverless functions.
DDoS Protection
Automatic DDoS mitigation at the network and application layer, included on all plans with no configuration required.
Rate Limiting
Configurable rate limits per IP, path, or custom criteria to prevent abuse of APIs and serverless functions.
Bot Management
Detection and management of automated traffic using behavioral signals and challenge pages.
Custom Firewall Rules
Configurable rules based on IP, geography, headers, paths, and request properties via dashboard or vercel.json.
Attack Challenge Mode
Automatic challenge pages for suspicious traffic during active attacks, allowing legitimate users through while blocking bots.
Pros & Cons
Pros
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Zero configuration for basics
DDoS protection and basic security are automatic for all Vercel deployments. No setup required.
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Platform integration
Understands Vercel''s deployment model including serverless functions, edge middleware, and ISR. Security that is aware of how modern frontends work.
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Global edge network
Protection runs across Vercel''s global network, providing low-latency security regardless of user location.
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Developer experience
Security rules configurable via dashboard, CLI, or vercel.json. Fits naturally into git-based deployment workflows.
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Free tier included
Basic DDoS and bot protection included on the free plan. No additional cost for fundamental security.
Cons
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Vercel platform lock-in
Only works for applications deployed on Vercel. Cannot protect applications hosted elsewhere.
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Limited WAF depth
Not a full-featured WAF compared to dedicated solutions. No OWASP CRS, no custom rule language, no deep packet inspection.
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Advanced features require Enterprise
Advanced bot management and custom WAF rules require Pro or Enterprise plans.
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Not a standalone security product
Cannot be evaluated or purchased independently from the Vercel hosting platform.
Pricing
Pricing model: Included in Vercel plans, features vary by tier
Hobby (Free)
Basic protection for personal projects
- DDoS protection
- Basic bot protection
- SSL/TLS encryption
- Edge network delivery
Pro
Enhanced security for professional teams
- All Hobby features
- Advanced DDoS mitigation
- IP blocking and allowlisting
- Rate limiting
- Custom firewall rules
- Attack challenge pages
Enterprise
Full security suite for organizations
- All Pro features
- Advanced bot management
- Custom WAF rules
- Dedicated security support
- SOC 2 compliance
- Advanced logging and analytics
Our Verdict
Vercel Firewall is the right security solution for teams already building on Vercel. The zero-configuration DDoS protection, platform-aware security rules, and edge-based architecture make it effortless to secure frontend applications. For Vercel users, there is no reason not to use it.
However, it is not a replacement for a dedicated WAF. Organizations with complex security requirements, custom rule needs, or applications hosted outside Vercel will need a standalone WAF solution. Think of Vercel Firewall as the security layer of a hosting platform, not a security product in its own right.
Our verdict: Best for frontend teams on Vercel who want effortless, integrated security. Not a substitute for dedicated WAF products in complex or multi-cloud environments.
CVE Coverage
Vercel Firewall 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
Do I need a separate WAF if I use Vercel?
For many frontend applications, Vercel Firewall provides sufficient protection. However, if your application has complex backend APIs, handles sensitive financial or healthcare data, or requires compliance with specific WAF standards (like OWASP CRS), you may want a dedicated WAF in addition to or instead of Vercel's built-in protection.
Does Vercel Firewall protect serverless functions?
Yes. The firewall protects all traffic to your Vercel deployment, including serverless functions and edge functions. Rate limiting is particularly useful for protecting serverless function endpoints from abuse, which can also help control Vercel usage costs.
Can I use Vercel Firewall with non-Next.js applications?
Yes. Vercel Firewall protects any application deployed on Vercel, regardless of framework. This includes React, Vue, Svelte, Nuxt, Astro, and static sites. The firewall operates at the network/HTTP level and is not framework-specific, though some features integrate more deeply with Next.js middleware.
Ready to try Vercel Firewall?
Start with the free tier and upgrade as you grow.