What is Remote browser isolation (RBI)?

Remote browser isolation (RBI) is a cybersecurity technology that executes web browsing sessions in a remote, isolated environment instead of on a user’s device. It helps protect organizations from web-based threats by preventing malicious content from directly reaching endpoints.

Web browsers are one of the most common attack vectors in modern organizations. Employees routinely access websites, cloud applications, and online content, increasing exposure to malware, phishing attacks, and malicious scripts.

Remote Browser Isolation (RBI) is a security technology that isolates web browsing activity from the user’s device by executing browser sessions in a remote environment. Instead of processing web content locally, the browsing session runs on a secure server, and only a safe visual representation of the webpage is delivered to the endpoint.

How does Remote Browser Isolation work?

RBI assumes that any website could potentially contain malicious content. By isolating browsing activity from the endpoint, organizations can reduce the risk of compromise from web-based attacks.

A typical RBI workflow includes:

1. A user requests access to a website.
2. The browsing session launches in a remote isolation environment.
3. Web content is processed remotely.
4. A safe rendering of the webpage is transmitted to the user’s device.
5. Potentially malicious code remains isolated from the endpoint.

Why is RBI important?

Traditional web security tools focus on detecting malicious content. RBI takes a different approach by assuming web content may be untrusted and isolating it from the endpoint entirely.

Key benefits include:

• Protection against web-based malware.
• Reduced phishing attack risk.
• Isolation of malicious scripts and exploits.
• Improved endpoint security.
• Safer access to unknown websites.
• Enhanced security for remote and hybrid workforces.

Organizations often use RBI as part of a layered defense strategy alongside endpoint and network security controls.

Common use cases for RBI

Remote Browser Isolation is particularly valuable in environments where users regularly access external websites and online content.

Common use cases include:

• Secure web browsing.
• Protection against zero-day browser exploits.
• Third-party and contractor access.
• High-risk user groups.
• Secure internet access for remote workers.
• Access to untrusted websites.

RBI can help reduce the attack surface associated with browser-based threats.

How Hexnode UEM supports endpoint security alongside RBI

Remote Browser Isolation protects users by isolating web activity from endpoints. However, organizations still need to secure and manage the devices that access corporate resources and browsing sessions.

Hexnode UEM helps IT administrators strengthen endpoint security through centralized device management, policy enforcement, and compliance monitoring. By maintaining secure and compliant endpoints, organizations can complement technologies such as RBI with broader endpoint security controls.

Key capabilities include:

• Application management: Control and manage applications installed on corporate devices.
• Security policy enforcement: Configure password policies, encryption settings, and device restrictions.
• Device compliance management: Monitor and enforce organizational security requirements.
• Patch management: Deploy operating system and security updates to managed endpoints.
• Remote device management: Monitor and manage devices from a centralized console.

While Hexnode UEM does not provide browser isolation capabilities, it helps organizations maintain endpoint security and device compliance as part of a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy.