Side by side

Gcore DDoS Protection vs Project Shield

Both stand on ddos protection software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.

Gcore DDoS Protection

Free plan APIWeb

Gcore combines multi-layer traffic filtering with web, API and automation options. A free PAYG plan is available, while the listed paid plans include clean-traffic commitments and payment setup fees on Start, Pro and Pro+.

Visit Gcore DDoS Protection

Project Shield

Free plan Web

Project Shield offers free, automatically configured DDoS protection, with caching and site metrics for eligible organizations. Its organization eligibility rules and DNS setup are key considerations.

Visit Project Shield

The facts

	Gcore DDoS Protection	Project Shield
Free plan	Yes	Yes
Open source	Not published	Not published
Runs on	API, Web	Web
Lowest paid plan	See the plans	Free or on request
Plans published	5	1
Maker	Not published	Not published
Website	gcore.com	projectshield.google
On ddos protection software	#4 of 37	#8 of 37

Gcore DDoS Protection: what it does well

Covers L3, L4 and L7 attacks.
Advertises over 200 Tbps filtering capacity.
Offers 24/7 expert support.
L3/L4 plans include unmetered mitigation.
API and automation integrations are documented.

What to know first

WAF is not included.
Paid plans are listed from €250/mo.
Start requires a one-month payment setup fee.

Project Shield: what it does well

Free unlimited DDoS protection for eligible organizations.
Covers layer 3/4 and layer 7 attacks.
Includes caching and cache invalidation controls.
Metrics include traffic, errors, and bandwidth savings.
Offers reCAPTCHA and IP allow and deny lists.

What to know first

Not available to gaming sites or businesses.
Eligibility is limited to listed organization types.
Setup requires DNS record changes.
A CNAME may be needed for certificates.

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