The free Dell KACE Secure Browser is based around Firefox, but comes with its own sandbox within which it operates. The idea of creating a virtualised machine within a machine is not new of course, but this is the first time I’ve seen a project where the web browser alone is encased in a protective sheath.
The idea is that any malware will be vaped the instant you close the virtual machine, which is a lot easier than using an alternative like the excellent Sun Virtual Box virtual machine and a standard browser.
I would love to report that the thing works brilliantly and means an end to dangerous vulnerabilities in web browsers, but unfortunately I’ve not been able to get the thing working with my Windows 7 setup. The techs tell me it could be a problem with my anti-virus installation, but to my mind if it can’t cope with a standard A/V setup, then it’s not a whole heap of use in its present incarnation.
So I’m posting the product here on the basis that I really like the idea, but they really need to fix this problem if they want mainstream adoption of the tech. Until then, it’s just a nice concept, right? Anyway, try it out and let us know in the comments if it works for you.
The Secure Browser uses virtualization technology to provide a safer web experience to users and organizations. When using the Secure Browser any changes or malicious files inadvertently downloaded from the Internet are contained within the secure browser, keeping the underlying OS and computer secure from hostile changes. Any changes resulting from browser activity may be quickly and easily reset to effectively “undo” such changes and return it to its initially installed state. This makes it much easier to clean a system and bring the user back to full productivity.
Hi; I don't suppose your Win7 is 64bit? Says on the Kace website that it only supports 32bit OS at present…
Hi Joe, thanks for the comment. Nope, it's a 32bit Win7 installation.
Sandboxie (http://www.sandboxie.com/) will open will sandbox Firefox with one click. It's supposed to open your default browser automatically, but I only use it for Firefox.