Sophos launches Workspace Protection: an integrated security solution that protects applications, data, and users through a hardened browser.
Sophos is launching a new solution called Workspace Protection. This solution is built around four components: a secure browser, DNS protection for endpoints, Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), and an email scanner. All components are integrated into a hardened Chromium browser, developed in collaboration with Island.io.
Sophos Protected Browser
That browser, the Sophos Protected Browser, is central. Sophos states that most work today is done via the browser, especially when there is an online component. Employees are provided with the Sophos Protected Browser, which automatically puts them in a protected environment.
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The solution is intended as an alternative to cloud-based network security solutions such as SASE and SSE. Sophos portrays these solutions, with some exaggeration, as slow, expensive, and complex, but this illustrates how it wants to distinguish itself with Workspace Protection. By taking a browser as the focal point, the solution becomes more accessible.
Central Management
Of course, the browser is not alone. The solution is managed from the same central console as other Sophos products. This makes it possible to quickly add or remove users, including external parties or employees with unmanaged devices. The ease with which external parties can be integrated into the ZTNA environment with the correct rights via the Sophos Protected Browser is another advantage.
Sophos further points to generative AI and, more specifically, the challenge of keeping data internal, without overenthusiastic employees revealing company secrets to ChatGPT. With Workspace Protection, administrators can set policies where the browser keeps an eye on things and prevents users from using unauthorized AI applications.
Workspace Protection works both on and off the corporate network and can be used as a supplement to other Sophos services such as Endpoint protection, firewalls, or MDR.
Availability
The new bundle will be generally available from the end of February. Sophos ZTNA customers automatically get access to Workspace Protection. Some components, such as the secure browser and DNS protection, are already available in an early access program via Sophos Central.
The license formula is based on a simple per-user model. Customers can choose between a term subscription or a flexible monthly subscription via MSP Flex.