In our digital-first daily life, businesses are navigating cybersecurity threats, more remote work, and a growing reliance on web-based applications. These challenges demand new solutions to ensure the security of business resources while maintaining a seamless user experience.

This is where an enterprise browser comes into play. As businesses adapt to the new conditions, an enterprise browser offers strengthened security for web access, better management of corporate data, and more control over user interactions with web applications. But what is a secure enterprise browser, and why should your business consider adopting one? Let’s explore.

What is an enterprise browser?

An enterprise browser is a web browser specifically designed to enhance security and optimize user experience for businesses. Unlike traditional consumer browsers, built for general use, an enterprise browser is equipped with specialized security features to protect company data and resources while ensuring smooth access to web applications and SaaS tools.

Secure enterprise browsers help IT teams manage everything in one place. They can set security rules and keep an eye on browser activities across the organization.

Beyond basic security, enterprise browsers also enhance productivity by reducing time spent on IT troubleshooting and security incidents. For example, instead of juggling multiple browsers to access different applications, employees can rely on one enterprise browser.

That helps ensure compatibility and streamlines their workflow, eliminating the frustration of switching between browsers and improving efficiency. At the same time, IT teams can centrally manage and configure browser settings, allowing employees to work without interruptions caused by security breaches or access issues.

This proactive approach minimizes downtime and streamlines daily operations, ensuring that employees remain focused on their tasks with fewer worries about cyber threats.

How does an enterprise browser work?

An enterprise browser works by incorporating security measures directly into the browser’s architecture. This ensures that every interaction with web applications and cloud resources is protected and compliant with corporate policies.

While the browser’s design prioritizes user experience, it is important to remember that threats can be mitigated but not completely eliminated. User awareness remains a crucial aspect of maintaining security.

Here’s a simplified breakdown of how it works:

1. Centralized management: IT teams can set up and enforce security configurations across the organization through a centralized dashboard. This includes browser settings, access controls, and data protection policies.
2. Enhanced security layers: Secure enterprise browsers integrate safety features such as authentication methods, encryption, and browser isolation to guard against malicious attacks.
3. Web access protection: Browsing is secured through real-time monitoring of web applications, which detects and blocks harmful activity that could expose corporate data.
4. Corporate resource access: The enterprise browser enables protected access to internal resources and applications while keeping strict controls to safeguard sensitive information.
5. Zero Trust principles: Following a Zero Trust security model, the enterprise browser verifies every request to access company data or resources. Only authorized users and their trusted devices get access.

Additionally, enterprise browsers can integrate with endpoint security solutions, identity and access management (IAM) systems, and security information and event management (SIEM) tools.

This allows businesses to gain deeper insights into browser activities, detect anomalies, and proactively respond to potential threats. With these integrations, companies can automate security enforcement, ensuring that only compliant and verified devices can access corporate data.

Threats from which an enterprise browser can protect you

Enterprise browsers are designed to protect businesses from common cybersecurity threats. Some of the key threats they guard against include:

• Data loss: With encryption and strict access controls, enterprise browsers help prevent unauthorized access to a company’s data, reducing the risk of data loss.
• Data leakage: Enterprise browsers help minimize the chance of sensitive data leakage by preventing the uploading and downloading of sensitive files through web apps and SaaS applications.
• Phishing attacks: Advanced security features detect and block phishing attempts, safeguarding employees’ and organizations’ data from social engineering attacks.
• Malware and ransomware: Secure enterprise browsers’ advanced protection layers can block malware and ransomware attacks before they reach a user’s device or network, reducing the risk of a breach.

For a comprehensive overview of these—and other—threats and their impact, explore our dedicated cyber threat hub.

A major advantage of an enterprise browser is its ability to enforce content filtering and network access restrictions. Organizations can block access to risky websites, prevent employees from downloading unauthorized software, and even restrict the use of web-based applications.

This level of control ensures that corporate devices and data remain secure, minimizing the chances of employees accidentally exposing the company to security threats.

Is an enterprise browser right for your business?

With the growing number of cyber threats targeting businesses, traditional browsers often lack the security controls to protect sensitive data and web-based internal resources, especially when accessed from unmanaged devices. An enterprise browser provides a dedicated security layer, ensuring safe access to web apps and SaaS platforms while preventing threats like phishing, malware, and data breaches.

But beyond just protection, enterprise browsers offer additional advantages such as enhanced security, control, and productivity across the organization. Here are the key enterprise browser benefits for your business:

1. BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) support

With the rise of remote work, many employees now use their devices to access corporate resources. However, managing security on personal devices can be challenging. An enterprise browser provides a secure environment for browsing and web-based resource access, even on unmanaged devices, ensuring that company data-related risks are mitigated regardless of the device being used.

2. Strengthened security for network access

As businesses increasingly rely on web applications and SaaS applications, it’s vital to have secure access to these resources. An enterprise browser enables businesses to safely access web-based tools and internal resources, with robust access controls and secure browser environments.

3. Centralized management

Managing security settings and configurations across a large organization can be hard to handle. Enterprise browsers simplify this process by offering unified management, allowing IT teams to configure and enforce security policies across all users with a few clicks. This level of control is critical in ensuring consistency and reducing vulnerabilities across the organization.

4. Compliance and regulatory requirements

With increasing scrutiny on data privacy and security, especially with global regulations like GDPR and CCPA, enterprises must ensure they meet strict compliance standards. Secure enterprise browsers help businesses stay compliant by incorporating features that prevent data leakage and support secure browsing practices, minimizing the risk of non-compliance.

5. Reduced IT overhead

By centralizing management and automating security updates, enterprise browsers reduce the burden on IT teams. IT administrators no longer need to manually configure browsers on each user’s devices or fix security issues from unsecured consumer browsers. This improves operational efficiency and reduces overall IT costs.

In addition, enterprise browsers can provide detailed auditing and reporting tools. IT administrators can track login attempts, user activity, and security incidents in real-time. This level of visibility allows organizations to identify potential risks early and take proactive measures before a security breach occurs.

The downsides of enterprise browsers

While enterprise browsers offer significant advantages, there are some challenges that businesses should consider:

• Compatibility with legacy systems. Some legacy applications or older systems may not be fully compatible with enterprise browsers. This could cause issues when trying to access internal resources or run specific web applications. Compatibility testing is crucial before transitioning to an enterprise browser.
• User resistance. Employees used to consumer browsers may be hesitant to adopt a new browser. Change management strategies and adequate training are necessary to ensure a smooth transition and to encourage adoption.
• Potential performance issues. While enterprise browsers are designed to be efficient, sometimes security layers can cause slight performance slowdowns. It’s important to monitor and optimize performance to prevent any negative impact on the user experience.

Enterprise browser use cases: real-world applications

Enterprise browsers are versatile tools that can be used across various business environments. Here are some key use cases:

1. Enabling remote work

For businesses with remote teams, enterprise browsers enhance secure access to corporate resources without compromising security. Whether employees are using unmanaged devices or company-issued laptops, the browser provides a secure platform for accessing sensitive company data.

2. BYOD policies

With more organizations adopting BYOD policies, enterprise browsers provide a controlled environment for employees to use personal devices without risking the organization’s data. This is particularly valuable in industries where employees must access corporate resources from multiple locations.

3. Securing web applications and SaaS tools

Enterprise browsers are essential for businesses that rely on web apps and SaaS applications. They provide a monitored environment to ensure safe access to these tools while protecting business data.

4. Data protection in web browsing

Enterprise browsers add an extra layer of protection against data breaches and cyber threats for organizations dealing with sensitive or confidential data. By enforcing strict access controls and monitoring data interactions, businesses can confidently protect their information while employees access online resources.

5. Enhanced compliance management

Enterprise browsers help businesses meet regulatory requirements such as GDPR, HIPAA, or PCI DSS by providing secure browsing environments and robust logging capabilities. This ensures that all network access is monitored, logged, and compliant with data protection regulations.

Essential features of a secure enterprise browser

Some key features of enterprise browsers that contribute to their security and performance include:

• Centralized management: Allowing IT teams to control browser settings and policies from a single dashboard
• Secure authentication: Enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) or single sign-on (SSO) to ensure secure logins
• Threat protection: Implementing measures to guard against various online threats and ensure data security
• Access controls: Ensuring users only have access to the resources they need based on their role and permissions
• Data protection: Using encryption and other technologies to prevent data breaches and unauthorized access
• Threat protection: Implementing measures to guard against various online threats and ensure data security.

Enterprise browsers vs. alternatives: Security comparison

When considering the implementation of an enterprise browser, it’s important to compare it to other available security solutions. Here’s how enterprise browsers stack up against other technologies:

Enterprise browsers vs. remote browser isolation (RBI)

While both solutions provide enhanced security for web access, remote browser isolation (RBI) allows users to access web content securely by isolating the browsing activity on a separate virtual machine or cloud instance. In contrast, an enterprise browser prevents access to malicious content directly within the browser interface, offering more control and a better user experience.

Enterprise browsers vs. consumer browsers

Consumer browsers are designed for general use and lack the security layers to protect company data. Enterprise browser benefits are that it is specifically built with security and control in mind. They offer centralized management and enhanced protection features like secure browser environments and data loss prevention.

Enterprise browser vs. SASE

Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) provides a comprehensive network security model that combines SD-WAN and security features like Zero Trust and data encryption. While SASE focuses on network-level security, an enterprise browser focuses specifically on web-based resource access, providing granular control over browser activity.

Enterprise browser vs. VDI

Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) provides a virtualized desktop environment for employees, ensuring that all business applications and resources are accessed remotely and securely. While VDI offers comprehensive security for the entire desktop environment, an enterprise browser focuses on securing browser-based interactions with web apps and corporate resources.

With the shift towards cloud-based applications, businesses can leverage secure browsers as a more cost-effective alternative to VDI, simplifying access to SaaS apps while maintaining robust security.

Securing your browser with NordLayer

At NordLayer, we recognize the increasing need for secure web access. That’s why we’re working on a new-generation Enterprise Browser. It is designed to enhance SaaS security and control, provide built-in threat prevention, and safeguard company resources.

In the meantime, NordLayer can still help protect your browsers through our NordLayer Browser Extension, which adds an extra layer of security and data protection to your existing web browser.

Stay tuned for more updates on our Enterprise Browser, and join our waiting list to be the first to experience the next level of web browser security.

Even though the times of COVID-19 feel like a thing of the past, remote work is here to stay for businesses of all sizes. According to recent Gallup studies, as of January 2025, 27% of U.S. employees with remote-capable jobs are fully remote, and 53% work based on a hybrid model. While this shift brings flexibility and convenience, it also introduces new challenges—especially when it comes to securing sensitive data and preventing cyber threats, such as a potential data breach.

Employees working remotely often use personal devices, connect to unsecured Wi-Fi networks, and access company systems from a distance, making them prime targets for cyber-attacks. In this guide, we’ll explore common security risks for the remote workforce and provide actionable tips to protect the company’s information.

Common risks associated with working remotely

While remote work provides flexibility, it also exposes employees and businesses to a variety of cyber threats. Here are some common risks remote workers face:

Unsecured Wi-Fi networks

Using public Wi-Fi in coffee shops, airports, or coworking spaces can expose remote workers to cyber threats. Unsecured Wi-Fi networks make it easier for attackers to intercept sensitive data like login credentials and personal information, increasing the risk of a data breach.

Phishing attacks

Imagine receiving an email that claims to be from your HR department, asking for your login credentials. This is a phishing attack. Remote workers often rely on email for communication, making them more susceptible to phishing scams. Cybercriminals use deceptive emails like this to trick users into sharing sensitive information or downloading malicious software.

Insecure personal devices

With many employees working remotely, it’s crucial to ensure all work devices are properly secured against cyber threats. Laptops, tablets, or smartphones may lack the same level of security measures as company-issued devices protected by antivirus software or firewalls. This makes them more vulnerable to malware infections and unauthorized access.

Weak passwords

Using weak or reused passwords creates significant vulnerabilities for data security. If a remote employee’s password is compromised, attackers can gain access to sensitive information or corporate systems. Complex, unique passwords are essential to prevent easy access for cybercriminals, especially in the context of remote work.

Lack of multi-factor authentication (MFA)

Without MFA, accounts are protected by only one layer of security. This makes it easier for malicious actors to break in if passwords are stolen or guessed. MFA adds an extra layer of protection by requiring two or more forms of verification, such as a password and a one-time code sent to a mobile device. This reduces the chances of unauthorized access, even if a password is compromised.

Unprotected endpoints

Many remote workers operate without VPNs, endpoint detection tools, or security monitoring, leaving their devices vulnerable to malware, ransomware, and unauthorized access. Without proper security measures, attackers can easily exploit unprotected endpoints to infiltrate company systems.

Shadow IT risks

Employees using unauthorized apps or personal cloud storage (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox) for work can bypass security controls, increasing the risk of data leaks and compliance violations. Without IT oversight, sensitive company data may be stored or shared in unsecured environments, making it an easy target for cybercriminals.

Best practices to stay safe when working remotely

Now that we’ve covered the risks, let’s explore some practical steps you can take to protect both yourself and your company while working remotely.

Implementing security measures doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these best practices, remote employees can safeguard their devices and data from potential threats:

1. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN encrypts internet traffic, ensuring sensitive data remains secure even on unsecured Wi-Fi networks. By masking your IP address, a VPN adds an extra layer of protection, keeping cybercriminals at bay.

For example, if you’re working from a coffee shop and connected to a public Wi-Fi network, using a VPN can enhance your data security by encrypting your connection and preventing attackers from intercepting your information.

2. Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA)

As explained earlier, MFA requires users to verify their identity using multiple factors, such as a password and a one-time code sent to their mobile device. This simple step significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access.

3. Secure personal devices

Ensure that personal devices used for work are equipped with up-to-date antivirus software, firewalls, and regular security updates. Strong passwords and screen locks should also be enabled to prevent unauthorized access.

4. Avoid public Wi-Fi

Whenever possible, avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi networks. If you must use them, always connect via a VPN to encrypt your traffic. Alternatively, consider using your mobile device’s hotspot for a more secure connection.

5. Regularly update software and applications

Outdated software often contains vulnerabilities that malicious actors can exploit. Remote workers should enable automatic updates for operating systems, browsers, and work-related applications to stay protected.

6. Practice strong password hygiene

Use unique, complex passwords for every account and update them regularly. Consider using a password manager to generate and store passwords securely. This reduces the risk of weak or reused passwords being exploited.

7. Be vigilant against phishing

Educate yourself on how to recognize phishing emails. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown attachments. When in doubt, verify the sender’s identity by contacting them through a different communication channel.

8. Limit remote access

Use secure remote access solutions to restrict who can access company systems. Employ Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) to ensure employees only have access to the data and applications relevant to their job roles—this applies not only to remote work but to all access scenarios.

9. Encrypt sensitive information

Ensure that sensitive data is encrypted both in transit and at rest. Using HTTPS for web applications and secure file-sharing platforms can help protect data from unauthorized access. For stronger protection, consider using encryption methods like AES-256 or ChaCha20, which are widely recognized for their security and efficiency.

10. Monitor and log activity

Real-time monitoring and logging of network activity help detect and respond to suspicious behavior. For example, if multiple failed login attempts are detected, security teams can take action to prevent a potential breach.

How NordLayer can help

NordLayer is designed to tackle the unique security challenges of remote work, with all its features and technologies contributing to Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) framework. Here’s how NordLayer strengthens network security for remote employees:

• Virtual Private Network (VPN). With NordLayer’s Business VPN, remote workers can securely connect to company networks, even on public Wi-Fi. This ensures that confidential information remains encrypted and protected from cyber threats.
• Cloud Firewall. NordLayer’s Cloud Firewall filters incoming and outgoing traffic, blocking malicious activity before it can reach your network. This added layer of protection is essential for remote workforce accessing company systems.
• Multi-factor authentication (MFA). NordLayer supports MFA, adding an extra layer of security for remote workers. By requiring additional verification, MFA ensures that only authorized users can access company resources.
• Comprehensive monitoring and logging. NordLayer’s real-time monitoring tools provide visibility into network activity, helping organizations quickly detect and respond to potential security threats. This feature ensures continuous protection for employees working remotely.
• Secure remote access. NordLayer’s Site-to-Site and Smart Remote Access (Cloud LAN) solutions enable secure connections to hybrid networks or specific devices. These technologies ensure remote employees can access essential resources safely and efficiently, without compromising security.
• Seamless integration. NordLayer is easy to deploy and integrates with existing IT infrastructure, making it an ideal solution for businesses looking to strengthen network security without disrupting operations.

Remote work is here to stay, and so are the cybersecurity risks that come with it. By following these best practices and using robust solutions, businesses can protect sensitive data, maintain employee productivity, and stay one step ahead of cyber threats.

Secure your remote workforce today—because protecting sensitive information is a responsibility every organization should prioritize.

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.