Plesk vs. cPanel: Which One Offers Better Security Features?
A Detailed Comparison of Security Features in Plesk and cPanel
When it comes to web hosting control panels, Plesk and cPanel are two of the most popular choices. Both offer a range of features to help users manage their websites, domains, emails, and databases. However, security is a crucial factor when choosing the right control panel.
So, which one provides better security—Plesk or cPanel? In this blog, we’ll compare their security features, helping you make an informed decision for your hosting environment.
1. User Access and Authentication
Plesk Security
Supports two-factor authentication (2FA) for additional login security
Allows role-based access control (RBAC) to limit user permissions
Provides Fail2Ban integration to protect against brute-force attacks
cPanel Security
Offers IP address restrictions for secure login access
Supports two-factor authentication (2FA)
Includes cPHulk Brute Force Protection to block suspicious login attempts
Winner: Plesk
Plesk has an edge due to its Fail2Ban integration and more advanced user access controls.
2. Malware Scanning and Protection
Plesk Security
Offers Plesk Web Application Firewall (WAF) for advanced protection
Includes ImunifyAV for basic malware scanning
Provides optional integration with Imunify360 for real-time malware protection
cPanel Security
Comes with cPanel WAF (via ModSecurity)
Supports ClamAV antivirus for email and file scanning
Offers ImunifyAV+ and Imunify360 as paid add-ons for malware protection
Winner: Tie
Both control panels provide solid malware scanning options, but Plesk’s built-in integration with ImunifyAV gives it a slight advantage for basic security.
3. SSL and Encryption
Plesk Security
Provides free Let’s Encrypt SSL integration
Supports automatic SSL renewal for all domains
Enforces SSL/TLS security policies to block insecure connections
cPanel Security
Offers free AutoSSL (Let’s Encrypt or Sectigo)
Supports manual and automatic SSL installations
Allows SSL/TLS configuration and security settings
Winner: Tie
Both panels offer free SSL certificates, automatic renewal, and strong encryption options.
4. DDoS Protection and Firewalls
Plesk Security
Comes with a built-in firewall for restricting access
Supports Fail2Ban for blocking suspicious activity
Can integrate with Cloudflare and other third-party DDoS protection services
cPanel Security
Includes ConfigServer Security & Firewall (CSF) for advanced protection
Allows custom firewall rules for additional security
Can be configured with Cloudflare and third-party DDoS protection tools
Winner: cPanel
cPanel’s CSF firewall provides more control and flexibility compared to Plesk’s built-in firewall.
5. Backup and Disaster Recovery
Plesk Security
Supports automatic scheduled backups
Allows incremental backups to save storage space
Integrates with cloud storage options like Google Drive, AWS, and OneDrive
cPanel Security
Provides full and partial backup options
Includes JetBackup (available with hosting providers) for automated backups
Supports external backup destinations
Winner: Plesk
Plesk offers more flexible cloud backup options, making it easier to secure your data.
6. Server Security and Hardening
Plesk Security
Supports SELinux and AppArmor for kernel-level security
Provides OS-level security for Linux and Windows
Regular security patches and updates
cPanel Security
Includes cPHulk for brute-force protection
Supports custom security modules
Regular updates and security fixes
Winner: Tie
Both panels offer strong server security measures, making them equally reliable.
Final Verdict: Which One Offers Better Security?
🔹 Choose Plesk if: You want Fail2Ban integration, role-based access control (RBAC), and better backup options.
🔹 Choose cPanel if: You need a more advanced firewall (CSF) and strong brute-force protection with cPHulk.
Both Plesk and cPanel provide excellent security features, and the best choice depends on your hosting requirements.
Which one do you prefer? Let us know in the comments.