Highlights:
- SquareX’s browser extension runs on cloud-based sandboxes that render web pages, which makes it impossible for any malware to reach consumer devices.
- As per SquareX, its platform can prevent the infiltration of harmful documents and other files that are infected with malware. Upon the conclusion of a browsing session, SquareX’s cloud-based sandbox is automatically removed, along with all associated data.
Recently, SquareX, a startup focused on cybersecurity, announced the closure of a seed funding round worth USD six million. The funding was headed by Sequoia Capital Southeast Asia.
The company stated that the investment would be used for product development and go-to-market initiatives. This funding comes after SquareX recently made its cybersecurity platform available to a select group of users. The startup plans to expand its market presence in the U.S., Asia, and the U.K.
SquareX offers a platform that helps protect users from online threats, including malicious websites. The platform uses a browser extension that runs locally on users’ devices to block hacking attempts. The company claims its technology can be an alternative to traditional cybersecurity products like antivirus software.
SquareX’s browser extension runs on cloud-based sandboxes that render web pages, which makes it impossible for any malware to reach consumer devices. Instead of rendering web pages locally, the extension processes them in the cloud. This approach ensures that the code for webpages is not downloaded onto users’ computers, which prevents any embedded malware from affecting consumer devices.
As per SquareX, its platform can prevent the infiltration of harmful documents and other files that are infected with malware. Upon the conclusion of a browsing session, SquareX’s cloud-based sandbox is automatically removed, along with all associated data.
SquareX uses headless browsers to render web pages in its sandboxes. A headless browser is a type of browser that is designed to operate without a user interface. Developers typically use this type of browser to test websites for technical issues.
SquareX claims its platform is a more convenient substitute for traditional antivirus products because its threat detection algorithms often mistakenly classify legitimate web pages and files as malicious. SquareX uses cloud-based sandboxes rather than threat detection algorithms to identify malware, unlike traditional antivirus programs. Therefore, it does not inadvertently block legitimate files.
SquareX offers its platform under a freemium pricing model. The startup allows users to use the platform for free for up to an hour a day. In addition to the free version, SquareX also offers two paid versions of its platform for users with more advanced requirements. These versions are priced at USD eight and USD 15 monthly, respectively.
Chief Executive Officer and SquareX founder Vivek Ramachandran said, “By creating a seamless, browser-integrated cybersecurity solution, we are empowering consumers to be fearless online and take control of their own security on the internet. We believe that a safer internet experience is not only possible but essential, and SquareX is dedicated to making it a reality for everyone.”
More and more enterprises are considering rendering web pages in the cloud instead of on individual devices to prevent malware. Cloudflare Inc. has developed a cybersecurity product called Cloudflare Browser Isolation that uses this approach to safeguard workers’ devices. By rendering web pages in the cloud, this product helps to prevent malware from infecting devices. McAfee Corp. and other companies offer similar tools.
