The web browser is one of the main tools for accessing the Internet, but it can also become one of the entry points for cyber attackers into the user's device. Malware, ransomware, phishing attacks and identity theft are only some of the threats that may target users while browsing. For this reason, choosing the right browser and using its security features is very important.
Google Chrome is by far the most popular desktop browser in the world and according to StatCounter it holds about 69 percent of this market. Microsoft Edge, with a share of about 5 percent, ranks much lower, but in terms of default security features it performs differently in some areas.
Both browsers are developed on the Chromium engine and offer tools to protect users against malicious sites and phishing attacks. However, Edge provides more built-in capabilities in blocking trackers, detecting some dangerous websites, and integrating with Windows security features.
How is Edge more secure than Chrome?
One of Microsoft Edge's most important security tools is Microsoft Defender SmartScreen. This feature warns the user when visiting suspicious or malicious sites and can prevent them from entering pages designed to distribute malware or carry out phishing attacks.
Google Chrome also has a similar feature called Google Safe Browsing that is used to detect malicious sites and phishing attacks. However, Edge on Windows has the advantage of integration with the Microsoft Defender security suite and can complement some of the protection provided at the operating system level.
Edge also offers Typo Protection, which is designed to counter websites that deceive users by using domains similar to legitimate sites. For example, an attacker might register the name of a well-known service with a slight change in the domain's letters so that the user thinks they have entered the main site.
Important difference in blocking trackers
Privacy is another area where Edge provides more tools by default. Edge's tracking prevention feature allows the user to choose the level of restriction on internet trackers.
In strict mode, the browser can block many trackers; although this may cause some website features to not work properly. In contrast, Chrome relies more on sending a "do not track" request to websites, and whether the destination site respects this request depends on the website itself.
Edge also has a feature called Edge Secure Network that uses VPN technology to encrypt the user's internet traffic when connecting to public or unsecured networks. Of course, this free service has limits and its free usage is limited to 5 gigabytes per month.
Can Chrome be made as secure as Edge?
Edge's security advantages do not mean that Chrome is an insecure browser. One of Chrome's important advantages is its extensive extension ecosystem. Users can add more security and privacy capabilities to their browser by installing reputable extensions.
For example, Malwarebytes Browser Guard can protect the user against trackers, intrusive ads, malicious sites and some phishing attempts. Also extensions like Windscribe enable the use of a VPN. Windscribe's free version normally provides 2 gigabytes of monthly data which can be increased to 10 gigabytes by verifying an email address.
To combat fake domains, there are also tools like TypoProtect that can identify and block known phishing domains and look-alike sites.
Ultimately, the main difference between Chrome and Edge is that some of Edge's security features, especially on Windows, are built into the browser from the start; whereas Chrome users may need third-party extensions to obtain some similar capabilities. Both browsers also benefit from features such as password management, private mode, and regular security updates. Therefore real security is not limited to the choice of browser and also depends on keeping software up to date, being careful when clicking links, and using strong passwords.