The evolution of secure web browsing: VPNs to remote browser isolation
The concept of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) dates back to the 1990s. As online services and activities expanded, VPNs became increasingly popular over the decades. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic had dramatically accelerated digital transformation, making remote working the norm, and VPNs evolved into essential tools for secure remote access.
CTO and co-founder of Keeper Security.
VPNs fall short
Yet VPNs are not without limitations. Although they effectively encrypt Internet traffic and mask IP addresses, they are limited in their ability to counter various modern cyber threats. Recent research from Keeper shows that phishing and malware are becoming increasingly common attack methods. In the same report, 40% of respondents reported experiencing insider threats, with attacks coming from employees. VPNs are not a one-stop solution for all online security, despite some organizations operating as if they are.
High-profile breaches and cyberattacks further illustrate the shortcomings of VPNs. For example, on May 24, 2024, Check Point reported attempted breaches of VPN networks, with attackers targeting remote-access VPN devices to gain unauthorized access. Similarly, a breach at Nissan that exposed the personal information of more than 53,000 employees involved operating a remote VPN, exfiltrating data from local network shares, shutting down certain non-production systems, and demanding ransoms.
In addition to these security concerns, VPNs also pose operational challenges. Their complexity, high maintenance costs and potential latency issues can undermine productivity and operational efficiency.
The rise of corporate browsers
Given these limitations, what alternatives exist to improve web security? In recent years, business browsers have emerged as an advanced alternative, offering a more controlled and managed browsing environment. These specialized browsers surpass VPNs with capabilities such as controlled access to web applications, robust management of user activities, and advanced tools designed to prevent data leaks.
However, enterprise browser adoption can come with its own challenges. Integrating new technologies can disrupt workflows and create friction among users, potentially complicating the transition and impacting overall productivity. If these integrations are not simple and easy, adoption rates will be low, leaving organizations vulnerable and exposed.
Remote browser isolation: a better approach
For many organizations, especially those with limited resources, Remote Browser Isolation offers a cost-effective alternative. Remote Browser Isolation solutions isolate web browsing sessions from end-user devices by hosting them in a secure, remote location. This approach addresses several important needs:
Secure access without VPN: Facilitates secure access to web resources without relying on VPNs, providing protection against threats from unhardened sites.
Zero-knowledge security: Provides complete control over network communications between the user’s device and the target websites and applications.
Recorded web sessions: Enables comprehensive compliance and auditing through session logging and monitoring, without exposing the entire operating system.
Controlled Internet browsing: Provides access to a curated list of URLs within a secure environment, with fine control over allowed websites.
Safe and simplified Internet browsing: Improves security while mitigating the risks associated with compromised devices.
Fill in password automatically: Automates the entry of credentials in isolated sessions, eliminating the need to send sensitive information to the user’s device.
Addressing external contractors
In today’s interconnected business environment, external contractors often need access to internal systems and data. While VPNs provide a secure tunnel, they can still expose the network to risk if the contractor’s device is compromised. They also provide broad access to systems without the ability to limit what users can access. Remote Browser Isolation covers the browsing activity of remote contractors in a remote environment and gives you complete control over what they have access to, ensuring that any potential threats are also contained and unable to reach the internal network. This not only improves security, but also simplifies compliance with data protection regulations by providing detailed session recordings and activity logs.
Other different usage scenarios
Remote Browser Isolation can be particularly effective for a range of web applications:
Operational Technology (OT) systems: Protects industrial control systems from cyber threats by isolating their web interfaces.
Administrative panels: Secures website management interfaces and internal systems.
Routers and Firewall UIs: Protects network device management interfaces from unauthorized access.
Cloud applications: Protects access to cloud-based services and platforms.
Internally hosted applications: Protects custom web applications hosted within the organization.
Supporting tools: Provides secure access to IT and customer support tools.
Social Media Sites: Manages shared access and controls posting capabilities without having to share login credentials.
The future of safe Internet surfing
Remote Browser Isolation provides an advanced solution for organizations that want to combine the strengths of both VPNs and corporate browsers while limiting their limitations. By using Remote Browser Isolation, organizations can secure internal web-based applications, cloud apps and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) environments, effectively prevent data exfiltration and manage browsing sessions with comprehensive visibility.
As the digital threat landscape continues to evolve, Remote Browser Isolation is quickly becoming the preferred choice for organizations looking to improve security and streamline management.
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