How can companies keep workstations secure while browsing the web?

IT departments and users want to enjoy flexibility when browsing the web. But how can they guarantee the highest level of security at the same time? The answer could well be virtualization. More specifically, an entirely new type of web browser with an architecture that guarantees security above anything else, but also mobility.

Security is a priority for any company these days. Cyber threats are everywhere, and they affect global corporations as much as SMEs and VSBs.  To help prevent security incidents, businesses need to educate their employees and keep them up to date on the risks associated with the internet, while also equipping them with the secure tools that allow them to reduce risks to a minimum, without compromising on efficiency.

Get into the right habits

But before rolling out any specific tools, it’s vital to get into the right habits that allow everyone to use the internet securely. Workstations are a weak point in company IT systems and pose a threat given all the data they handle. That’s why it is not a good idea to use passwords that are too simple or to install password management plugins that are not secure enough.

It’s important to be cautious and stay vigilant when using the internet. Some websites are full of fake adverts and virus warnings. By clicking these links, you run the risk of downloading malware, jeopardizing the workstation. Viruses can be hidden anywhere. Malware, for example, can be concealed in an attachment to a fake invoice sent by email. This is what exactly what happened with the Locky ransomware. It asked users to download an invoice in a .zip file, which contained a malicious file that installed Locky on the computer.

Corporate IT system security starts with an anti-virus and a solid firewall. But these tools are far from enough to tackle attacks which are becoming more and more sophisticated. Businesses now have a lot more at their disposal to protect themselves.

Virtual sessions for complete compartmentalization

So, how can businesses get unrivaled security when accessing the web and their apps? Browsing in a virtual environment on a server isolated from the workstation is a way to meet the expectations of companies longing for a tool that combines security and mobility. But what exactly is virtualization? This technique consists of creating a software (or virtual) version of a physical entity. The system can work just as well with applications as it can with servers or networks. Virtualization can slash IT costs.

With VirtualBrowser, employees can browse the web in total security. The solution isolates users from their workstations by running different browsing sessions on the servers. Each session is hosted in an independent virtual environment, allowing applications to be compartmentalized. As browsing runs on a server, attacks from the web cannot penetrate the workstation. Complete compartmentalization. Even if users display the browser on their workstation, it is not run locally, but rather on a server. Only display aspects (such as images, sounds, mouse commands, and printing) are handled on the workstation itself. The core of the browser is run remotely.

Thanks to the features of VirtualBrowser – including the ability to deactivate downloads and uploads – users can browse in total security. Even on workstations in the more sensitive departments (R&D, finance, management, etc.) which still need access to the internet for operational reasons.

Protect sensitive workstations

Companies need to be able to connect their sensitive workstations (R&D, finance, management, etc.) and networks to the internet, without fear of security breaches. The solution from Oodrive allows sensitive or offline workstations to access the internet, and critical network services can be isolated without having to duplicate machines. This makes it impossible for attacks to penetrate the workstation. The browser runs a session in a vacuum that completely compartmentalizes users and their activity.

Help employees to stay mobile

Security is not the only major factor that companies have to bear in mind. Mobility is now a core part of corporate life. Employees want to access their professional data whenever and wherever they are. And sometimes they use unsecure networks to do so. Thanks to Oodrive’s secure web browser, your employees can access company applications, without breaking confidentiality. What’s more, you can carry it around on a USB stick. This way, users have a secure browser at their disposal at all times. VirtualBrowser can also be used by certain external users – whether on an ad hoc or permanent basis – all while complying with the company security policy.