What it is
Browser isolation separates a user's browsing session from their actual device. Instead of rendering pages locally where malicious code could run, the session takes place inside a disposable remote environment (cloud VM, container, or on-prem proxy) and only a safe visual stream or sanitized DOM is delivered to the workstation. This removes direct exposure to scripts, plug-ins, or downloads that would otherwise reach the endpoint.
Why it matters
Most compromises start in the browser: drive-by downloads, malicious ads, phishing payloads, and exploit kits all rely on executing locally. Isolation keeps untrusted websites, pop-ups, and documents at arm's length so even zero-day exploits cannot reach the host OS. It also provides strong auditability and policy control for regulated industries adopting zero trust browsing.
How to reduce risk
- Deploy remote browser isolation (RBI) for privileged or high-risk users.
- Force isolation for unknown, uncategorized, or newly registered domains.
- Integrate isolation with secure email gateways so rewritten links open in an isolated session.
- Enforce download scanning or content disarm and reconstruction (CDR) before allowing files to leave the isolated browser.