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Beyond the Perimeter: Securing a Distributed, Browser-First Workforce
The modern workforce no longer operates within traditional boundaries. Employees, contractors, and partners need seamless access to private applications and data from anywhere—often using unmanaged or personal devices.
At the same time, the browser has become the primary workspace for business-critical applications and AI-driven workflows. Yet most security architectures still focus on controlling access at the network or endpoint level, leaving a critical gap once users are inside applications and interacting with sensitive data.
This creates real risk. Traditional approaches such as VPNs and VDI introduce complexity and friction, while fragmented controls across tools lead to inconsistent policy enforcement and increased exposure to data loss.
To move forward, organizations need a zero trust approach that secures not just access— but also how data is used.
The Solution: Zero Trust from the Browser to the Network to the Workload
Cisco Secure Access and the Island Browser deliver a unified approach to zero trust by combining cloud-delivered Security Service Edge (SSE) protection with browser-native security controls.
Cisco Secure Access provides secure, policydriven connectivity to private applications using Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), after verifying identity and device posture.
Island extends app specific data protection policies directly within the browser, enabling organizations to control how users interact with data in real time. Together, they create a continuous security model that spans access, activity, and data usage—from login to the end of the session.
This integrated approach allows organizations to securely connect any user, on any device, while protecting sensitive data wherever actions take place.
Enable Zero Trust Access for All Users and Devices
Securely connect employees, contractors, and partners to private applications with continuous verification of identity and device posture. Extend secure access to unmanaged and BYOD devices without requiring complex onboarding or full device management.
Protect Data at the Point of Use
Enforce granular data controls directly in the browser, including restrictions on copy/paste, file transfers, printing, screenshots, and screen sharing. Ensure sensitive data is protected not just in transit, but while it is actively being used.
Eliminate Complexity and Replace Legacy Architectures
Move beyond VPNs and costly VDI environments with a modern, browser-based access model. Deliver secure, direct-to-application access while simplifying infrastructure and improving user experience.
Secure BYOD and Third-Party Access with Ease
Enable secure access for unmanaged devices in minutes. Users simply log in through the browser, while device posture is assessed in real time and policies are enforced without agents or administrative overhead.
Enable AI Adoption with Built-In Governance
Gain visibility into AI application usage and apply controls to prevent sensitive data from being exposed in prompts or outputs. Enable generative AI workflows with consistent policy enforcement.
Improve Visibility and Policy Enforcement
Combine browser telemetry with networklevel insights to gain a complete view of user activity and data movement. Reduce operational overhead and enable flexible policy enforcement across multiple control points.
Extend Security Controls to More User Actions
Cisco Secure Access enforces policy at the network layer, while Island extends that protection to the endpoint by governing user actions inside the browser.
This includes:
● Controlling clipboard activity and file movement
● Restricting uploads, downloads, and printing
● Preventing screen capture and unauthorized sharing
● Enforcing application boundaries and data flow policies
Together, these capabilities allow organizations to move beyond access control and achieve continuous protection of sensitive data in use.
Experience a simpler, more effective approach to zero trust security.
Contact your Cisco account team or partner account team to learn more about the Cisco Secure Access and Island browser integration.