What is browser security and how does it protect you online?
In short: what is browser protection
Browsing protection alerts you to unsafe websites and prevents viruses or phishing from entering your device through the browser. Convenient, but it only protects your browser and not your whole device. For complete protection, choose a full security package with all features in one such as Norton, McAfee, Bitdefender or Kaspersky.
Chances are you use a browser like Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or Safari every day to surf the web. But did you know this is also the very place where cybercriminals try to strike? Think of fake online stores, phishing emails leading you to dangerous sites, or ads spreading malware. That’s exactly why many types of security software include a browser protection feature, also known as safe browsing or web protection.
What exactly does browser protection do?
Browser protection adds an extra layer of security to make your internet use safer. This feature checks websites before you visit them. If they don’t seem right or are known to be unsafe, you’ll get an immediate warning or the site will be blocked altogether. This helps you avoid having your personal data—like passwords, banking details, or credit card information—fall into the wrong hands.
Important: browser protection does not secure your entire device. It mainly focuses on the risks you face online, such as phishing sites, fake webshops, and harmful downloads. To fully protect your laptop, PC, smartphone, or tablet, you’ll need a comprehensive security package that guards all digital entry points, not just your browser.
Which problems does browser protection solve?
- Protection against phishing websites
You’ll get a warning if you try to open a fake site pretending to be your bank or an online shop. - Blocking dangerous downloads and ads
Malicious files are stopped before they can cause any harm. - Preventing viruses from installing via your browser
Browser protection stops harmful software from settling on your device via websites or downloads. - More confidence when shopping or banking online
You’ll know for sure you’re on a legitimate website and not falling into a scammer’s trap.
How do Norton, McAfee, Bitdefender, and Kaspersky offer this feature?
Almost all big names in the antivirus world include browser protection as standard in their packages. Here’s how they do it:
- Norton
Norton calls it Safe Web. This feature is included in all Norton packages we offer. Norton Safe Web checks websites for threats and shows which ones are safe with a green check mark.
- McAfee
McAfee offers the WebAdvisor extension. McAfee WebAdvisor warns you about risky sites and helps prevent you from accidentally downloading harmful files. WebAdvisor comes as standard in all McAfee packages.
- Bitdefender
Bitdefender calls it Web Protection. It’s a standard part of all Bitdefender packages. Bitdefender blocks dangerous websites and stops your data from being intercepted.
- Kaspersky
Kaspersky includes the Safe Browsing feature. This protects you against phishing and harmful sites. Safe Browsing comes as standard in all Kaspersky products.
A free extension, but still essential
You might wonder why you’d need to buy a full security package if browser protection is often offered for free as an extension. Great question! The answer is simple: browser protection is just one of the many layers you need to be truly protected.
Relying on browser protection alone is like locking your front door but leaving the windows wide open. A complete package protects your entire device, your privacy, your data, and your online activities. That way, you’ve got everything covered in one go.
Discover our security packages
At 2GO Software, you can buy 100% genuine software from top brands like Norton, McAfee, Bitdefender, and Kaspersky. You’ll benefit from our free installation service, seven-day-a-week support, and a money-back guarantee. And with selected packages, you’ll even receive a fun free gift. Curious which product suits you best? Take a look at our webshop and find your ideal protection today.