Page 83 - Cyber Defense eMagazine September 2023

Additionally, secure browsers can leverage the distributed computing power of all other
browsers/extensions in their network for free rather than paying a SASE provider for high-cost cloud
computing.

Secure browsers offer better use of compute resources, reduce latency, improve performance issues
and result in a better defense position.

Why Is ‘Bring Your Own Browser’ Security a Better Option?

While both secure browser forms have merit, the browser extension, or “bring your own browser”
approach, is the better option for the following reasons:

• It’s easy to adopt. Users continue to use the browser they like.
• It’s easy to deploy. Users are familiar with other browser extensions for quick access to apps they
use every day.
• It enables the delivery of the same security services provided over SASE platforms.

Some of the capabilities a secure browser extension can deliver include:

• Antivirus
• Antiphishing
• Data Loss Protection
• Secure Web Gateway
• Firewall
• More

It’s early days for secure browser technology, but the sky is the limit.

What is the Future of Secure Browser Extensions?

A browser security module offers a range of exciting possibilities in the future. It has more capabilities
than just a browser extension. Here are a few we’re building into the Overwatch CyberLab SWARM™
Browser Security Module:

Strength in numbers – If all users had secure browser extensions, then all browsers could talk to each
other and share information to mount a better defense. So, for example, when one user (“patient zero”)
clicks on a phishing link, other users will be automatically protected from doing so. It’s like a hive mind or
herd immunity. We SWARM™ together, also known as Secure Web Application Response Module.

Application Proxy – There’s only so much you can do inside the browser. However, if you extend the
browser’s capability into the operating system (OS), you have nearly infinite capabilities. To make this
happen, we’ve built an OS Communication Proxy™ that bridges the browser to the OS, not unlike
middleware.

Cyber Defense eMagazine – September 2023 Edition 83
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