Microsoft Edge (with security extensions) - Short Review

Microsoft Edge Overview

Microsoft Edge is a modern, proprietary web browser developed by Microsoft, designed to replace the legacy Internet Explorer. It is built on the Chromium open-source project, utilizing the Blink and V8 engines, which enables it to offer a robust and compatible browsing experience across various platforms.

Key Features and Functionality

Performance and Compatibility

Microsoft Edge is known for its faster browsing, smoother performance, and lower resource consumption compared to its predecessors and other popular browsers. It is available on multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS, ensuring a consistent browsing experience across all your devices.

Security

Security is a paramount feature in Microsoft Edge. It comes with several built-in security tools:

• Microsoft Defender SmartScreen: Protects users against phishing, malware, and potentially malicious files by default.
• Password Monitor: Alerts users if their passwords have been compromised and suggests stronger passwords.
• Password Generator: Automatically generates strong, unique passwords for online accounts.
• Edge Secure Network VPN: Provides VPN protection to secure network connections, keep locations private, and safeguard sensitive data.
• Website Typo Protection: Warns users if they have mistyped a well-known site address, helping them avoid malicious sites.

User Experience

Microsoft Edge offers several features to enhance user experience:

• Reading Mode: Allows for distraction-free reading by simplifying the layout and removing unnecessary content.
• Collections: Enables users to organize content, such as web pages, images, and text, into collections for easy reference.
• Vertical Tabs: Allows users to move tabs to the left side of the screen for better organization.
• Workspaces: Introduces collaborative workspaces where users can create separate spaces for different tasks and invite others to collaborate.

Extensions

Microsoft Edge supports a wide range of extensions, similar to other popular browsers. Users can find and install extensions from the Microsoft Edge add-ons store or even use extensions designed for Google Chrome by enabling the “Allow extensions from other stores” option.

Syncing and Integration

Microsoft Edge allows users to sync their bookmarks, passwords, browsing history, and settings across all their devices, ensuring a seamless browsing experience regardless of the device being used.

Business Features

For business users, Microsoft Edge offers a dedicated business mode with Microsoft Edge for Business. This feature enables users to separate work and personal browsing into dedicated browser windows and provides additional features aimed at administrators.

Additional Features

• Cortana Integration: Supports voice searches through Cortana.
• Autofill: Suggests completions when filling out online forms, making it easier to enter saved information such as names, emails, and addresses.
• Internet Explorer Mode: Available in Windows 11, this mode provides compatibility with legacy websites by using the MSHTML browser engine and supporting ActiveX and BHO technologies.

In summary, Microsoft Edge is a robust and secure web browser that combines fast performance, extensive compatibility, and a range of innovative features to enhance both personal and business browsing experiences. Its strong focus on security, user-friendly interface, and extensive extension support make it a compelling choice for users seeking a reliable and efficient web browser.