Today, web-based apps are at the heart of business operations, with 80% of work done in a web browser. As companies move core tools online for flexibility, collaboration, and real-time updates, the browser has become both the new workspace and the frontline of cyber risks.

The growing adoption of bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies adds another layer of threats. Two-thirds of organizations say at least 50% of their network devices are unmanaged, with growing risks from phishing and malware to unauthorized data sharing. That’s why CISOs and security teams are shifting their focus to this expanded attack surface.

If your business relies on web-based applications, like Google Docs, Hubspot, Salesforce, Asana, Figma, Microsoft 365, and many others, an enterprise browser is no longer optional. It’s a critical part of your cybersecurity strategy. It helps protect business data while reducing the risks and costs of handling unmanaged devices.

For NordLayer, introducing an enterprise browser is a natural next step. Backed by Nord Security and built on the NordVPN standard, we’ve strengthened business network defense. Now, we’re bringing that protection to the browser.

In this article, we’ll explore the rise of web-based apps, the security challenges they bring, why traditional browsers aren’t enough for business security, and what to expect from the NordLayer Enterprise Browser.

Key takeaways

• Browsers are becoming the main workspace, making collaboration easy and supporting growth. But they also bring web-based risks.
• Unlike traditional browsers, the NordLayer Enterprise Browser will focus on providing more control and security for organizations of all sizes.
• With the NordLayer Browser, users can safely access web-based applications, reducing risks, such as phishing attacks, malware infiltration, unauthorized data sharing, and unsafe file transfers.
• CISOs and security teams will have greater control, from monitoring activity to managing resource and network access, all without disrupting workflows.

Why the future of work is browser-based

Web-based apps are replacing traditional desktop software, and browsers are becoming the main workspace. According to Forbes, half of workers can do their entire job in a web browser.

But while browsers have become essential in modern workflows, they are also vulnerable to attacks. Every session is a roll of the dice, with risks lurking at every click.

Unmanaged devices add to the problem. As the 2024 Browser Security Report states, 62% of employees access corporate data on unmanaged devices, and 45% use personal browser profiles on work devices. This exposes businesses to data leaks and phishing.

And it’s not just users. Many organizations report that at least half of their network devices are unmanaged, creating a massive blind spot for security teams. But unmanaged doesn’t mean it should be ignored—CISOs and security teams still need solutions to protect it. Without proper security, the browser can be a ticking bomb.

According to Gartner, enterprise browsers will be the go-to tool for productivity and security by 2030. They’ll work across both managed and unmanaged devices, making hybrid work smoother than ever.

The future of work is clearly browser-based. But while it has many benefits, it also raises new risks for business data exposure. Let’s take a closer look at the dangers of traditional browsers.

The hidden risks of traditional browsers

Traditional web browsers like Chrome or Firefox have basic built-in security features, but they aren’t designed for business needs. They’re tailored more for personal use, not for protecting corporate sensitive data.

In contrast, enterprise browsers give security teams the power to centrally control settings, enforce security policies, and gain detailed visibility—something that traditional browsers just can’t match.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the risks that come with using regular browsers in the workplace:

• Limited control: IT teams have little visibility or ability to enforce security policies.
• Weak data protection: Consumer browsers lack enhanced security features and management controls tailored for business environments.
• Unmanaged updates: Users may delay updates, leaving browsers vulnerable to known exploits.
• Lack of security enforcement: Employees can bypass security settings, leaving the company exposed to attacks.
• Risky third-party integrations: Syncing personal accounts or using unvetted browser add-ons can compromise sensitive business data.
• Lack of centralized observability. Admins can’t observe and mitigate insider threats or user behavior risks.

That’s why your organization needs an enterprise browser—a tool for securing sensitive data at every level.

Why businesses should use enterprise browsers

With remote work, web-based tools, and BYOD policies becoming the norm, businesses need a browser that works for them—not against them. Traditional browsers lack the security, observability, and management features organizations require, leaving security teams without the tools to detect threats, respond effectively, and control access. With greater visibility, they can shift from reactive fixes to proactive threat prevention and informed decision-making.

Enterprise browsers offer a smarter way to secure work without disrupting employees. They provide:

• Centralized security control: Admins can enforce policies, restrict risky behaviors, and help ensure compliance.
• Stronger threat prevention: Built-in security features and data collection help detect and mitigate threats.
• Simplified network security: Ideal for organizations with unmanaged devices, helping ensure security without requiring additional endpoint software.
• Better BYOD support: Employees can securely access company resources through the enterprise browser.
• A user-friendly approach: Employees don’t need to install intrusive security apps—admins manage only the dedicated work browser, keeping personal browsing separate.

The way businesses work has changed, and their browsers should, too. Enterprise browsers combine security, control, and ease of use, helping organizations stay ahead of cyber threats without adding complexity.

Why NordLayer’s upcoming Enterprise Browser stands out

NordLayer, a part of Nord Security and built on the NordVPN standard, goes beyond traditional security. Our multi-layered complete security solution keeps businesses a step ahead. Now, we’re building an enterprise browser designed to put security and functionality first.

NordLayer Browser is designed for the way companies work today. Security teams will be able to manage security settings and network access, as well as monitor activity, all while ensuring that users can work without disruptions.

“Introducing an enterprise browser is a natural progression for us. We’ve established a strong foundation in securing business networks, empowering organizations to protect and manage their traffic at the network level. And over the past two years, we’ve already made strides in the browser security space with the launch of our Browser Extension. As enterprises increasingly depend on web applications, it’s clear that the browser has become a critical gateway essential not just for productivity but also as a frontline for security,” says Donatas Tamelis, managing director at NordLayer. “With the introduction of a full-fledged enterprise browser, CISOs and security teams will be able to control security settings in the browser, manage network access and segmentation, and observe users’ activity—without interrupting them.”

What you can expect from the NordLayer Enterprise Browser

• Enhanced security measures and more control: The browser will offer high-level observability and full-scale response features—all in one package.
• A combination of ZTNA and SWG for a unified solution. The browser will merge years of NordLayer experience and the capability to combine Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) and Secure Web Gateway (SWG) features into one solution.
• Data loss prevention (DLP). Controls for copy-paste functionality, as well as camera and microphone use and prevention of unauthorized downloads and uploads, will help protect sensitive company information.
• Centralized control. The enterprise browser will allow CISOs and security teams to establish and enforce advanced security policies for all users effortlessly.
• Support for business growth. Designed to scale with businesses, it will ensure security without disrupting workflows or compromising employee productivity.

Let’s now discuss how our browser will address web-based threats.

Challenges NordLayer Enterprise Browser will solve

As more work moves online, businesses are facing three major security challenges. The need for robust protection has never been greater. That’s why our upcoming browser is designed to tackle them head-on:

• Securing the shift to web-based apps: As more businesses rely more on web-based applications, a secure browser is essential for protection and smooth operations.
• Refined device oversight: Our browser will allow businesses to transition from fully managed to partially unmanaged hardware, reducing device management costs.
• Enhancing web security: Since browsers are prime targets for threats, we’re building a browser that will defend against malicious websites, phishing, and more.

Key benefits in development

Our browser will simplify security so you can focus on what matters—your work. Here are its benefits for IT admins.

• Observability: Full visibility into browser activity.
• Access management: Precise control over access permissions.
• Threat mitigation: Protection from internal and external risks.
• Cost reduction: Streamlined device management lowers costs.

But that’s not all. It will also ensure a seamless experience with added security for end-users working remotely with BYOD setups.

Join the future of safe browsing with NordLayer

The future of secure browsing is here, and NordLayer is ready to lead the way. Our browser is designed to address modern workplace challenges. From protecting company resources to defending your business against web-based threats, we’ve got your back.

Don’t miss out. Join the waiting list now and stay tuned for all the latest updates. Your secure browsing journey starts with NordLayer. Today.