Tips and Tactics

Browser security, namely which web browsers keep users the most secure, has long been a hotly disputed topic in the computer security industry. Now, there's a new browser to add to the mix that you may want to check into further, if you haven't already done so.

Last September, Google released its Chrome browser, catching the attention of security analysts and users alike. According to Google, its objective with Chrome was to help make the Web fast, safer, and easier for users. How exactly does Chrome provide additional security and simplicity to your online experience, beyond what other browsers offer? The main security highlights of Chrome include:

• Phishing and malware protection
  You're alerted if you're about to visit a site that may harm your computer. The list of sites suspected of phishing and malware is constantly updated to keep you safe.
• Sandbox architecture to isolate your browsing
  Each tab you use is run independently and is sandboxed, so it can't access other parts of the browser or your computer. That means, if a website compromises the security of a tab, it won't effect any other components of your computer.
• Private browsing
  You can open an incognito window when you don't want to save your browsing history.
• Fast, automatic updates
  Chrome users are always protected with the latest security fixes and patches.

Since Chrome was first introduced, Google has been working on adding fresh features requested by users, and has also focused on making the browser even faster. In fact, in the end of May, Google released its first major update to Chrome; according to Google, in addition to improving the browser's speed and stability, new features also include full screen mode, the ability to remove thumbnails from the new tab page, and form autofill.

If you've already installed Chrome, you'll pick up these new updates automatically. If you haven't tried Chrome yet, you can find more information about its features on the Chrome website, or stay updated on the latest news by following the Google Chrome Blog.