Prevent Direct Access – Protect… vs WP-DownloadManager (2026)
Detailed side-by-side comparison of two WordPress plugins, based on real-time data from WordPress.org.
Prevent Direct Access – Protect…
10K+ active installs
Free
Quick Verdict
As of April 2026, Prevent Direct Access – Protect… has a higher user rating (4.7/5 from 292 reviews) and leads in active installations (10K+ vs 3.0K+). Both are free WordPress plugins. Prevent Direct Access – Protect… has accumulated 264K+ total downloads while WP-DownloadManager has 309K+.
Detailed Comparison
| Metric | Prevent Direct Access – Protect… | WP-DownloadManager | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.7/5 | ◄ | 4/5 |
| Total Reviews | 292 | ◄ | 37 |
| Active Installs | 10K+ | ◄ | 3.0K+ |
| Total Downloads | 264K+ | ► | 309K+ |
| Support Resolution | 0% | N/A | |
| Last Updated | 1 week ago | ◄ | 1 month ago |
| First Released | 2015 | 2007 | |
| Age | 11 years | 19 years | |
| WP Requires | 4.7+ | 4.0+ | |
| PHP Requires | 5.6.1+ | false+ | |
| Business Model | Free | Free | |
| Latest Version | 2.8.8.6 | 1.69.1 |
Rating Breakdown
Prevent Direct Access – Protect…
WP-DownloadManager
Download Trends
Over the past 30 days, Prevent Direct Access – Protect… averaged approximately 453 daily downloads while WP-DownloadManager averaged 26.
Recent Reviews
Prevent Direct Access – Protect… Reviews
Great protection
The pro plugin delivers, providing protection and security to files which contain commercial, sensitive or personal information. I have had a pro license for some time and even though the license h
Free Version barely usable
Almost every useful feature is locked away. Uninstalled immediately.
I’m completely impressed…
I’m not one to write reviews, but the WP Folio Team definitely deserves one. I’m completely impressed with their support. They are unparalleled! Whatever you need, you can be sure they will do everyth
WP-DownloadManager Reviews
WP Download Manager Review
The plugin is way too complex for an average user. The protection for download takes too many steps. I found not ever get the preview option only to display. I ask for a refund within the first 14
Great
This is what i was looking for. Works great with external file
Excellent
Très bon plugin / Very great plugin
More Downloads Worth Comparing
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Simply counts the number of times your files are downloaded. Display download links and counts using shortcodes.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Plugin data sourced from WordPress.org. Comparison and analysis by PluginSift.