# Imperva Application Security vs Instart Web Performance (Legacy): side-by-side comparison (2026)

[Imperva Application Security](https://cybersectools.com/tools/imperva-application-security) is a commercial [cloud web application and API protection](https://cybersectools.com/categories/cloud-waap) solution by [Imperva](https://cybersectools.com/companies/imperva). [Instart Web Performance (Legacy)](https://cybersectools.com/tools/instart-web-performance-legacy) is a commercial [cloud web application and API protection](https://cybersectools.com/categories/cloud-waap) solution by [Akamai](https://cybersectools.com/companies/akamai). Features, integrations, deployment and the company behind each one, side by side.

Need the answer fast? [Best Cloud WAAP Solutions for Business](https://cybersectools.com/shortlists/best-cloud-waap-solutions) picks Cloudflare WAF, Akamai App & API Protector, Imperva Web Application Firewall (WAF) and 3 more.

## Side-by-side comparison

| | Imperva Application Security | Instart Web Performance (Legacy) |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing model | Commercial | Commercial |
| Category | Cloud Web Application and API Protection | Cloud Web Application and API Protection |
| Verified | No | No |
| Deployment type | Hybrid | Cloud |
| Company size fit | SMB, Mid-Market, Enterprise | SMB, Mid-Market, Enterprise |
| Company | Imperva | Akamai |
| Headquarters | – | – |

### Use cases and capabilities

| | Imperva Application Security | Instart Web Performance (Legacy) |
|---|---|---|
| Bot Protection | Yes | – |
| DDoS | Yes | – |
| WAF | Yes | Yes |
| Web Security | Yes | – |
| Security Configuration | – | Yes |
| Content Security Policy | – | Yes |

### Core features

**Imperva Application Security**

10 features listed. Sign in on the page to see them.

**Instart Web Performance (Legacy)**

No features listed.

### Integrations

**Imperva Application Security**

3 integrations listed. Sign in on the page to see them.

**Instart Web Performance (Legacy)**

No integrations listed.

## Which one fits you

Based on what each listing shows: deployment, company size, price and open source.

- [Imperva Application Security](https://cybersectools.com/tools/imperva-application-security) fits if you need both cloud and on-premises options.
- [Instart Web Performance (Legacy)](https://cybersectools.com/tools/instart-web-performance-legacy) fits if you want a cloud product.

## Imperva Application Security vs Instart Web Performance (Legacy) FAQ

Common questions when comparing Imperva Application Security vs Instart Web Performance (Legacy) for cloud web application and API protection.

### What is the difference between Imperva Application Security and Instart Web Performance (Legacy)?

**Imperva Application Security**: Platform protecting web apps and APIs from attacks, bots, and DDoS threats. Built by Imperva.

**Instart Web Performance (Legacy)**: A legacy web application security and performance optimization solution that combines security controls with performance enhancement features. Built by Akamai.

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

### Who makes Imperva Application Security and Instart Web Performance (Legacy)?

**Imperva Application Security** is made by Imperva. **Instart Web Performance (Legacy)** is made by Akamai. The vendor behind a product decides its roadmap, support, and longevity, so check each company's profile before you commit.

### Is Imperva Application Security a good alternative to Instart Web Performance (Legacy)?

Often, yes. Imperva Application Security and Instart Web Performance (Legacy) are both Cloud Web Application and API Protection products, and both cover WAF. Use the table above to see where features, deployment and company size fit differ.

## Related comparisons

- [Imperva Application Security vs Myra Application Security](https://cybersectools.com/compare/imperva-application-security-vs-myra-application-security)
- [Imperva Application Security vs Astra DDoS Protection](https://cybersectools.com/compare/astra-ddos-protection-vs-imperva-application-security)
- [Imperva Application Security vs Polaris Infosec WAAP](https://cybersectools.com/compare/imperva-application-security-vs-polaris-infosec-waap)
- [Instart Web Performance (Legacy) vs Myra Application Security](https://cybersectools.com/compare/instart-web-performance-legacy-vs-myra-application-security)
- [Instart Web Performance (Legacy) vs Astra DDoS Protection](https://cybersectools.com/compare/astra-ddos-protection-vs-instart-web-performance-legacy)
- [Instart Web Performance (Legacy) vs Polaris Infosec WAAP](https://cybersectools.com/compare/instart-web-performance-legacy-vs-polaris-infosec-waap)

## Alternatives to each

- [See all Imperva Application Security alternatives](https://cybersectools.com/alternatives/imperva-application-security)
- [See all Instart Web Performance (Legacy) alternatives](https://cybersectools.com/alternatives/instart-web-performance-legacy)

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Source: https://cybersectools.com/compare/imperva-application-security-vs-instart-web-performance-legacy

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More on Imperva Application Security and Instart Web Performance (Legacy): funding, momentum, hiring and news, plus the full product and company record, are available through the Mandos MCP Server (paid plans), which connects to AI assistants: https://mandos.io/mcp?utm_source=cybersectools.com&utm_medium=compare-md
