Azure Web Application Firewall and Akamai App and API Protector compete in cloud security, each offering unique strengths. Akamai appears superior for complex needs due to advanced features, while Azure emphasizes cost-effectiveness and support.
Features: Azure Web Application Firewall integrates seamlessly with Azure services, offers robust security and provides real-time threat intelligence. Akamai App and API Protector showcases AI-driven analysis, flexible rule sets and comprehensive DDoS protection.
Room for Improvement: Azure Web Application Firewall may expand support beyond the Azure ecosystem for broader compatibility, improve advanced DDoS mitigation capabilities and enhance custom rule functionalities. Akamai App and API Protector could benefit from simplifying its setup process, providing more tailored guidance for diverse infrastructure and optimizing pricing models.
Ease of Deployment and Customer Service: Azure Web Application Firewall is straightforward for Azure customers, benefiting from strong platform-aligned customer service. Akamai App and API Protector offers flexible deployment options with extensive customization, supported by a broad network, though its setup can be complex.
Pricing and ROI: Azure Web Application Firewall offers a competitive and flexible pricing model, advantageous for businesses using Azure, yielding significant ROI through integrated usage. Akamai's higher initial costs reflect its advanced security features, tailored for enterprises with high security demands, providing substantial ROI.
AI-based recommendations save on time and money.
Recently, they have been under serious attack with major exploits, such as Log4j, affecting Fortinet and Palo Alto, and even Cisco and VMware.
I hardly use Microsoft's paid subscription or maintenance services, however, whenever I send them a note, they have been responsive.
I am very satisfied with the response from Microsoft dedicated architects if it happens that I have to call for their support.
Some Azure applications, like the web application firewall, require a certain level of SKU for hosting setup.
Very rarely do I see any latency issues.
Upgrading the platform regularly is necessary for security, however, frequent updates every six months or year from Azure can be a maintenance overhead.
It is even a lower cost compared to AWS and GCP.
Sometimes, when opting for a higher SKU, it's not the WAF itself that's costly but the additional requirements.
With Microsoft, everything is within a single suite, making it easier to configure and plan.
It is almost impossible to access these assets from outside, requiring a very skilled attacker to obtain asset tokens of a customer using Azure.
Akamai App and API Protector provides website security by preventing DDoS attacks, acting as an application firewall, managing content delivery, and monitoring APIs. It adapts to threat profiles and is used for fast media delivery and identifying malicious activities.
Akamai App and API Protector offers strong protection, adaptable security features, and efficient traffic management. Its WAF blocks IP addresses and country-specific threats while preventing SQL injections. Companies utilize it for scalable CDN services and comprehensive traffic analysis. Known for its cost-effectiveness and user-friendly dashboard, this protector stands out for its customizable rules and technical support. Users also highlight the ease of integration and detailed attack insights available through its advanced dashboard.
What are the key features of Akamai App and API Protector?In media, Akamai App and API Protector ensures smooth streaming by handling high bandwidth demands. E-commerce companies use it to guard against fraud and data breaches. Financial sectors rely on its ability to protect sensitive transactions. Implementations in healthcare focus on safeguarding patient data while maintaining compliance with regulations.
Azure Web Application Firewall (WAF) provides centralized protection of your web applications from common exploits and vulnerabilities. Web applications are increasingly targeted by malicious attacks that exploit commonly known vulnerabilities. SQL injection and cross-site scripting are among the most common attacks.
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