Microsoft Edge is getting new security improvements on Windows 10
Automatic HTTPS and Windows Hello authentication are coming to Edge
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Microsoftis currently working on two new security features forMicrosoft Edgethat will protect users when browsing the web and make it harder for others to access the passwords stored in their browser.
When manually typing URLs into Edge’s address bar, the browser currently tries to load the HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) version of a site first as opposed to the HTTPS (HTTP Secure) one. WhileHTTPSworks exactly like HTTP, the difference between these two types of sites is that HTTPS sends traffic through anSSL encryptedtunnel so that it can’t be spied on.
Beginning with version 92 of Edge though, the browser will automatically connect to the HTTPS version of URLs typed into the address bar through a new feature called Automatic HTTPS. When this feature launches in the beginning of June, it will be optional and Edge users will be able to enable it from the browser’s Settings menu.
Although Automatic HTTPS will protect users from navigating to insecure sites, it could lead to errors if a site is still using the older protocol.
Thankfully though, these errors should diminish over time asGoogleand other browser makers have been working to make HTTPS the new standard going forward. In fact,Google Chrome 90recently shipped and the latest version of the search giant’s browser now diverts to the more secureHTTPS protocol by defaultwhen loading incomplete URLs.
Windows Hello authentication
Just like with other modernbrowsers, Microsoft Edge also includes apassword managerthat allows users to store and autofill passwords when navigating to frequently used sites where they have an account.
In order to improve the security and privacy of its users' stored passwords, Microsoft has begun testing support forWindows Helloin Edge Canary. Users on Edge’s Dev Channel can now enable Windows Hello to add additional security to the browser’s autofill feature.
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With Windows Hello enabled, Edge users will see a security prompt pop up each time they try to use one of their saved passwords in the browser. They’ll then have to authenticate using either a PIN, fingerprint or iris scan to have Edge automatically fill in the username and password for their online accounts.
Edge Dev or Canary users can test out this feature now by going to the browser’s Settings menu, navigating to their Profile and clicking on Passwords. By enabling the “Require authentication” option under Sign in, they can force Windows Hello authentication each time they try to sign in using their saved passwords. Edge also provides three options for this feature and users can choose for authentication to be required Always, Once every minute or Once every session.
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After working with the TechRadar Pro team for the last several years, Anthony is now the security and networking editor at Tom’s Guide where he covers everything from data breaches and ransomware gangs to the best way to cover your whole home or business with Wi-Fi. When not writing, you can find him tinkering with PCs and game consoles, managing cables and upgrading his smart home.
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