Quick Overview
- 1#1: Cloudflare - Delivers always-on DDoS protection using a global network to absorb and mitigate massive attacks at the edge.
- 2#2: Akamai - Provides enterprise-grade DDoS mitigation with on-demand and always-on services scrubbing traffic across a massive global platform.
- 3#3: Imperva - Offers advanced DDoS protection combining network, application, and DNS layer mitigation with behavioral analysis.
- 4#4: Radware - Deploys behavioral-based DDoS defense systems for on-premises and cloud environments with real-time threat intelligence.
- 5#5: F5 Silverline - Provides cloud-based DDoS protection services with massive scrubbing centers for volumetric and sophisticated attacks.
- 6#6: NetScout Arbor - Uses ATLAS threat intelligence for DDoS detection, mitigation, and orchestration across networks.
- 7#7: AWS Shield - Offers managed DDoS protection integrated with AWS services, scaling automatically to handle large-scale attacks.
- 8#8: Azure DDoS Protection - Integrates adaptive DDoS detection and mitigation directly into Azure Virtual Network resources.
- 9#9: Google Cloud Armor - Provides DDoS and web application firewall protection using machine learning for adaptive threat blocking.
- 10#10: Fastly - Combines edge computing with DDoS mitigation to protect applications from volumetric and application-layer attacks.
We selected and ranked these tools based on factors like threat mitigation efficacy, scalability across global networks, ease of use, and comprehensive value, ensuring they meet the varied needs of businesses, organizations, and technical environments.
Comparison Table
With DDoS attacks rising in frequency and severity, choosing the right protection tool is vital for securing networks and data. This comparison table breaks down leading options like Cloudflare, Akamai, Imperva, Radware, and F5 Silverline, along with additional tools, to help readers assess features, performance, and suitability for their unique needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cloudflare Delivers always-on DDoS protection using a global network to absorb and mitigate massive attacks at the edge. | enterprise | 9.8/10 | 9.9/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.9/10 |
| 2 |  Akamai Provides enterprise-grade DDoS mitigation with on-demand and always-on services scrubbing traffic across a massive global platform. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.7/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | Imperva Offers advanced DDoS protection combining network, application, and DNS layer mitigation with behavioral analysis. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 4 | Radware Deploys behavioral-based DDoS defense systems for on-premises and cloud environments with real-time threat intelligence. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | F5 Silverline Provides cloud-based DDoS protection services with massive scrubbing centers for volumetric and sophisticated attacks. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | NetScout Arbor Uses ATLAS threat intelligence for DDoS detection, mitigation, and orchestration across networks. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 7 |  AWS Shield Offers managed DDoS protection integrated with AWS services, scaling automatically to handle large-scale attacks. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Azure DDoS Protection Integrates adaptive DDoS detection and mitigation directly into Azure Virtual Network resources. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | Google Cloud Armor Provides DDoS and web application firewall protection using machine learning for adaptive threat blocking. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 |  Fastly Combines edge computing with DDoS mitigation to protect applications from volumetric and application-layer attacks. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
Delivers always-on DDoS protection using a global network to absorb and mitigate massive attacks at the edge.
Provides enterprise-grade DDoS mitigation with on-demand and always-on services scrubbing traffic across a massive global platform.
Offers advanced DDoS protection combining network, application, and DNS layer mitigation with behavioral analysis.
Deploys behavioral-based DDoS defense systems for on-premises and cloud environments with real-time threat intelligence.
Provides cloud-based DDoS protection services with massive scrubbing centers for volumetric and sophisticated attacks.
Uses ATLAS threat intelligence for DDoS detection, mitigation, and orchestration across networks.
Offers managed DDoS protection integrated with AWS services, scaling automatically to handle large-scale attacks.
Integrates adaptive DDoS detection and mitigation directly into Azure Virtual Network resources.
Provides DDoS and web application firewall protection using machine learning for adaptive threat blocking.
Combines edge computing with DDoS mitigation to protect applications from volumetric and application-layer attacks.
Cloudflare
enterpriseDelivers always-on DDoS protection using a global network to absorb and mitigate massive attacks at the edge.
Magic Transit and Spectrum for L3/L4/L7 DDoS protection at true anycast scale across 330+ cities
Cloudflare is a premier cloud-based DDoS protection solution that leverages its vast global anycast network spanning over 330 cities to absorb and mitigate even the largest volumetric, protocol, and application-layer attacks. It provides always-on protection for websites, applications, and APIs by filtering malicious traffic at the edge, ensuring origin servers remain unaffected. The service integrates seamlessly with CDN, WAF, and other security features, offering both free and enterprise-grade options for comprehensive defense.
Pros
- Unparalleled global scale capable of mitigating terabit-per-second DDoS attacks automatically
- Free unlimited DDoS protection for all users with no bandwidth limits
- Advanced analytics, real-time visibility, and integration with WAF and bot management
Cons
- Advanced customization and rate limiting require paid plans
- Occasional false positives in aggressive mitigation modes needing tuning
- Enterprise features involve custom contracts and support SLAs
Best For
Websites, applications, and enterprises of any size needing scalable, always-on DDoS protection without hardware investments.
Pricing
Free plan includes unlimited DDoS mitigation; Pro at $20/month, Business at $200/month, Enterprise custom pricing with dedicated support.
Akamai
enterpriseProvides enterprise-grade DDoS mitigation with on-demand and always-on services scrubbing traffic across a massive global platform.
World's largest DDoS scrubbing network with 325+ Tbps capacity for handling the biggest attacks
Akamai offers enterprise-grade DDoS protection via its massive global anycast network, capable of mitigating attacks up to 325+ Tbps, covering layers 3, 4, and 7. It provides always-on shielding for websites, applications, APIs, and infrastructure using AI-driven detection, behavioral analysis, and real-time mitigation. The solution integrates seamlessly with Akamai's CDN and security suite for comprehensive threat defense.
Pros
- Unparalleled global network capacity for absorbing massive volumetric attacks
- Advanced AI/ML threat intelligence and automated mitigation
- Comprehensive multi-layer protection with CDN integration
Cons
- High cost prohibitive for SMBs
- Complex setup requiring technical expertise
- Limited self-service options for smaller deployments
Best For
Large enterprises and high-traffic websites needing scalable, always-on DDoS defense against sophisticated attacks.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically starts at $5,000+/month based on traffic volume and protection scope.
Imperva
enterpriseOffers advanced DDoS protection combining network, application, and DNS layer mitigation with behavioral analysis.
Behavioral DDoS protection using machine learning to differentiate attacks from legitimate spikes without false positives.
Imperva offers enterprise-grade DDoS protection through its cloud-based platform, utilizing a global network of over 50 scrubbing centers to mitigate volumetric, protocol, and application-layer attacks. It employs advanced behavioral analysis and machine learning to detect sophisticated threats in real-time while ensuring minimal disruption to legitimate traffic. The solution integrates seamlessly with Imperva's WAF and API security for comprehensive web protection.
Pros
- Massive global scrubbing capacity exceeding 20 Tbps
- Advanced behavioral analytics for precise threat detection
- Seamless integration with WAF and other security tools
Cons
- High enterprise-level pricing
- Steep learning curve for configuration
- Custom quotes required, lacking transparent tiers
Best For
Large enterprises and high-traffic websites needing robust, always-on DDoS mitigation for critical applications.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on traffic volume; typically starts at $5,000+/month for mid-tier protection.
Radware
enterpriseDeploys behavioral-based DDoS defense systems for on-premises and cloud environments with real-time threat intelligence.
Behavioral DoS (BaDoS) engine for proactive mitigation of unknown attack patterns without signatures
Radware provides enterprise-grade DDoS protection through its DefensePro on-premises appliances and Cloud DDoS Protection Service, mitigating volumetric, protocol, and application-layer attacks. Leveraging behavioral analysis, machine learning, and a global network of scrubbing centers, it delivers automated, real-time threat detection and mitigation with minimal latency. The solution supports hybrid deployments, integrating seamlessly with existing security stacks for comprehensive defense.
Pros
- Advanced behavioral DoS detection prevents sophisticated zero-day attacks
- Hybrid cloud and on-premises options for flexible scalability
- Global scrubbing network ensures high availability and low latency
Cons
- Complex configuration requires skilled IT teams
- Premium pricing may not suit small businesses
- Limited transparency on exact mitigation capacities without a quote
Best For
Large enterprises and service providers needing robust, multi-vector DDoS protection for critical infrastructure.
Pricing
Quote-based; cloud subscriptions start at ~$10K/year for basic protection, scaling with bandwidth; on-prem hardware from $50K+.
F5 Silverline
enterpriseProvides cloud-based DDoS protection services with massive scrubbing centers for volumetric and sophisticated attacks.
Behavioral DoS (BDoS) mitigation powered by machine learning for real-time detection of adaptive, zero-day attacks
F5 Silverline is a cloud-based DDoS protection service designed to safeguard applications and networks from volumetric, protocol, and application-layer attacks using a global network of scrubbing centers. It provides always-on mitigation with massive capacity exceeding 10 Tbps, behavioral analysis for zero-day threats, and flexible deployment options including managed services. The solution integrates with F5's BIG-IP for hybrid protection, ensuring low-latency traffic cleaning and high availability for enterprise environments.
Pros
- Global scrubbing network with over 10 Tbps capacity for handling massive attacks
- Advanced behavioral DoS detection using machine learning for sophisticated threats
- Flexible always-on or on-demand mitigation with managed service options
Cons
- Premium pricing that may be prohibitive for SMBs
- Configuration can be complex for custom integrations
- Limited public pricing transparency requires sales contact
Best For
Large enterprises and service providers needing robust, scalable DDoS protection for critical infrastructure.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing based on protected bandwidth, typically starting at $5,000+ per month for basic plans.
NetScout Arbor
enterpriseUses ATLAS threat intelligence for DDoS detection, mitigation, and orchestration across networks.
ATLAS global threat intelligence platform, the largest passive DDoS sensor network analyzing 400+ Tbps of internet traffic daily.
NetScout Arbor, formerly Arbor Networks, delivers enterprise-grade DDoS protection through its Arbor DDoS Mitigation System, combining on-premises appliances, cloud scrubbing, and the ATLAS global threat intelligence platform monitoring over 400 Tbps of traffic worldwide. It excels in detecting and mitigating multi-vector attacks, including volumetric, protocol, and application-layer DDoS, using behavioral analysis and automated response mechanisms. The solution provides deep network visibility and is scalable for service providers and large enterprises handling massive traffic volumes.
Pros
- Massive ATLAS threat intelligence from global sensors for proactive detection
- High-capacity on-premises scrubbing up to 10 Tbps+ per appliance
- Advanced behavioral baselining and automated mitigation workflows
Cons
- High upfront costs for hardware and subscriptions
- Complex deployment and management requiring skilled network engineers
- Less optimized for small businesses or simple cloud-only setups
Best For
Large enterprises, data centers, and service providers requiring scalable, high-performance DDoS protection with global threat intelligence.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; hardware appliances start at $150K+, cloud scrubbing from $10K/month based on protected bandwidth.
AWS Shield
enterpriseOffers managed DDoS protection integrated with AWS services, scaling automatically to handle large-scale attacks.
Proactive engagement from the AWS Shield Response Team (SRT) with 24/7 DDoS expert support and customized mitigation strategies in the Advanced tier
AWS Shield is a managed DDoS protection service from Amazon Web Services that safeguards applications running on AWS infrastructure from distributed denial-of-service attacks. It includes Shield Standard, which is automatically enabled at no extra cost for all AWS customers and provides basic always-on detection and mitigation at the network and transport layers using AWS's global edge locations. Shield Advanced offers enhanced protection with features like application-layer mitigation, DDoS cost protection, real-time attack visibility, and 24/7 access to the AWS Shield Response Team for proactive support during attacks.
Pros
- Seamless integration with AWS services like CloudFront, Route 53, and ELB for automatic protection
- Scalable mitigation leveraging AWS's massive global network capable of absorbing large-scale attacks
- Free Shield Standard tier provides solid baseline DDoS defense without additional setup
Cons
- Shield Advanced pricing is high and may not suit small businesses or low-traffic sites
- Limited to AWS-hosted resources, requiring migration for non-AWS users
- Less granular customization compared to specialized third-party DDoS tools
Best For
AWS-centric organizations needing scalable, managed DDoS protection integrated with their cloud workloads.
Pricing
Shield Standard: Free for all AWS customers; Shield Advanced: $3,000/month minimum + $0.023-$0.034 per GB data processed.
Azure DDoS Protection
enterpriseIntegrates adaptive DDoS detection and mitigation directly into Azure Virtual Network resources.
Adaptive DDoS protection that baselines traffic patterns using Azure's vast global network intelligence for each protected resource.
Azure DDoS Protection is a managed service from Microsoft that defends Azure Virtual Network (VNet) resources against distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks at layers 3 and 4. It features a Basic tier with free, always-on traffic monitoring and alerting, and a Standard tier offering adaptive mitigation, real-time telemetry, and behavioral-based protection tuned to individual applications. The service leverages Azure's global network intelligence for automatic attack detection and absorption without requiring manual configuration.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Azure Monitor, Sentinel, and Security Center
- Adaptive tuning using global Azure telemetry for precise protection
- Always-on mitigation with no performance impact on applications
Cons
- Limited to Azure cloud resources; no support for on-premises or multi-cloud
- Layer 7 (application-layer) DDoS protection requires separate WAF services
- Standard tier costs can accumulate with high-volume attacks or large-scale deployments
Best For
Azure-centric organizations needing integrated, scalable DDoS protection for virtual networks without managing hardware appliances.
Pricing
Basic tier is free; Standard tier charges ~$2,944/month base fee (for up to 100 public IPs) plus $0.045/GB for mitigated traffic.
Google Cloud Armor
enterpriseProvides DDoS and web application firewall protection using machine learning for adaptive threat blocking.
Adaptive Protection uses real-time ML to automatically throttle suspicious traffic without manual rules
Google Cloud Armor is a web application firewall (WAF) and DDoS mitigation service integrated with Google Cloud Load Balancers, providing protection against Layer 3/4 volumetric attacks and Layer 7 application-layer DDoS threats. It leverages Google's global anycast network, machine learning-based threat intelligence, and customizable security policies to automatically detect and block malicious traffic. The service supports pre-configured rulesets for OWASP Top 10 vulnerabilities alongside adaptive protection for dynamic threat response.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Google Cloud Load Balancers and global infrastructure for scalable DDoS mitigation
- Advanced ML-driven Adaptive Protection for automatic L7 DDoS response
- Comprehensive threat intelligence from Google's vast network data
Cons
- Limited to Google Cloud environments, not suitable for multi-cloud or on-premises setups
- Complex pricing tied to GCP billing with potential for high costs during attacks
- Requires GCP expertise for optimal configuration and management
Best For
Google Cloud Platform users running web applications behind HTTP(S) Load Balancers who need enterprise-grade DDoS protection.
Pricing
Pay-as-you-go: $3 per million rule evaluations for standard policies, $10 per million for Adaptive Protection, plus GCP data processing fees; free tier for low-volume use.
Fastly
enterpriseCombines edge computing with DDoS mitigation to protect applications from volumetric and application-layer attacks.
Unlimited-scale DDoS absorption via a 300+ Tbps global network with always-on mitigation
Fastly is an edge cloud platform providing DDoS protection through its global anycast network, which absorbs and mitigates volumetric attacks at the network edge before they reach origin servers. It integrates DDoS mitigation with a next-gen WAF, rate limiting, and bot management for layered security. The service offers real-time visibility and customization via VCL scripting, ensuring low-latency protection for web applications and APIs.
Pros
- Global anycast network with massive capacity absorbs large-scale DDoS attacks automatically
- Seamless integration with CDN, WAF, and edge compute for comprehensive security
- Real-time dashboards and customizable rules via VCL for precise mitigation
Cons
- Usage-based pricing can become expensive at high volumes
- Steep learning curve for VCL configuration and advanced tuning
- Less focus on non-web protocols compared to dedicated DDoS specialists
Best For
Enterprises with high-traffic, performance-sensitive web apps and APIs needing integrated edge DDoS protection.
Pricing
Pay-as-you-go starting at ~$0.12/GB bandwidth and $0.40/million requests; DDoS protection included in security add-ons from $250/month.
Conclusion
Evaluating the top DDoS protection tools reveals a landscape of robust solutions, with Cloudflare emerging as the top choice, thanks to its global edge network that ensures always-on protection against massive attacks. Akamai and Imperva follow closely, offering enterprise-grade capabilities—Akamai with distributed scrubbing and Imperva with multi-layer (network, application, DNS) and behavioral analysis. Both remain strong alternatives, catering to diverse needs like scale or advanced threat detection.
Take the first step in securing your applications by trying Cloudflare, the leading DDoS protection tool, and keep your systems resilient against evolving threats.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison