Microsoft Edge (Chromium-based since 2020) is one of the most secure browsers available, with built-in protections powered by Microsoft's security ecosystem. It integrates deeply with Windows features like Defender SmartScreen and offers proactive defenses against phishing, malware, tracking, and data leaks. As of January 2026, Edge continues to evolve with AI-enhanced threats in mind, including strong passkey support and optional VPN-like encryption.
1. Microsoft Defender SmartScreen
- Core Protection: Checks websites, downloads, and apps in real-time against Microsoft's reputation database. Blocks phishing sites, malware downloads, and malicious scripts.
- How It Works: Warns or blocks risky content (e.g., "Windows protected your PC" for unsafe downloads).
- Tie-In: Builds on the Windows SmartScreen we discussed earlier — same tech, browser-optimized.
2. Enhanced Security Mode
- Modes: Basic (default), Balanced (extra protection on unfamiliar sites), or Strict (maximum safeguards, may break some sites).
- Benefits: Reduces memory-based attacks by disabling features like Just-In-Time (JIT) compilation in JavaScript on risky pages.
- How to Enable: Settings > Privacy, search, and services > Enhance your security on the web.
3. Tracking Prevention
- Levels: Basic, Balanced (default), Strict — blocks trackers, fingerprinting, and known harmful cookies.
- Extras: Includes website typo protection (catches URL mistakes leading to scams) and scareware blockers.
4. Password Monitor & Passkeys
- Password Monitor: Scans saved passwords against known breaches and alerts you.
- Passkeys: Modern, phishing-resistant login (synced across Windows devices in 2026 updates) — the future of passwordless auth.
5. InPrivate Browsing & Privacy Tools
- InPrivate Mode: No history, cookies, or site data saved.
- Edge Secure Network: Built-in VPN (powered by Cloudflare) — encrypts traffic, hides IP/location (5GB/month free).
6. Advanced/Enterprise Features
- Application Guard: Isolates untrusted sites in a virtualized container (Windows Pro+).
- Endpoint Data Loss Prevention (DLP): Prevents sensitive data leaks (for Microsoft 365 users).
- New in 2026: Watermarking protection previews and AI browsing controls for enterprises.
Edge often outperforms competitors in blocking phishing/malware (per independent tests) and ties seamlessly into Microsoft Defender Antivirus.
How to Access Settings: Click the three dots (...) > Settings > Privacy, search, and services.
Pro Tip: For maximum security, set Tracking Prevention to Strict and Enhanced Mode to Balanced — great balance for daily use in Lucknow's busy networks!
This rounds out our Windows security series (MotW → SmartScreen → Defender → Edge). If you want setup guides or comparisons (e.g., vs. Chrome), just ask, Ram! 🚀