AWS WAF vs AWS Web Application Firewalls (WAFs): side-by-side comparison (2026)

AWS WAF: AWS Web Application Firewall (WAF) for protecting web applications from common exploits. Built by Amazon Web Services, Inc.

AWS Web Application Firewalls (WAFs): AWS Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) are cloud-based security services that protect web applications and APIs from internet-based attacks through customizable filtering rules and centralized management capabilities.

The table above shows where their features, integrations, deployment and company size fit differ.

AWS WAF is made by Amazon Web Services, Inc. AWS Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) is open-source with 255 GitHub stars. The vendor behind a product decides its roadmap, support, and longevity, so check each company's profile before you commit.

Often, yes. AWS WAF and AWS Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) are both Cloud Web Application and API Protection products, and both cover AWS, WAF. Key differences: AWS WAF is Commercial while AWS Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) is Free, AWS Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) is open-source. Use the table above to see where features, deployment and company size fit differ.