So, you’re searching for a safe web browser, and you’re curious whether the Brave web browser is the one for you. Here’s everything you need to know about Brave Browser.
What is Brave Browser?
Brave is a free and open-source web browser that prioritizes your privacy and security. Brave was established in 2016 by Brendan Eich to address the oppression that the majority face against invasive advertising buckets and data tracking.
Brave, by default, blocks ads, blocks trackers, defends against fingerprinting and makes anyone’s website HTTPS so that you can have a fast, ad-free, and secure browsing experience. Brave protects your privacy while offering additional features such as “Private Search” and “Shields,” giving you back control of your privacy.
It’s the safest browser you can use for both personal and professional use.
Is Brave a secure browser? Security advantages and disadvantages
Brave is different from any other browser because it is security and privacy-oriented. This is clearly demonstrated by third-party ads, cross-site cookies, phishing, and malware, all getting automatically blocked out of the box. However, just like any other browser, Brave has its problems.
Brave users mention that one of the most significant downsides of Brave is limited extension support relative to other browsers. Brave also received mixed reviews, so to speak, for its crypto aspect, among other issues.
Here is a brief pros and cons list that we’re sure would help you a lot.
Essential Features of Brave Browser
Privacy and security elements:
- Shields — Brave blocks ads, trackers, fingerprinting, and malicious scripts
- HTTPS — automatically upgrades unsecured connections to HHTPS
Advanced security features:
- Integrated IPFS — allows accessing and sharing content via a decentralized network
- Private browsing with Tor enhances anonymity and privacy
- Network server calls limitation — improves performance and privacy
- Query parameter filtering — filters out common tracking parameters from URLs
- Partitioning — prevents cross-site tracking and boosts security
Data protection policies:
- CCPA — California Consumer Privacy Act
- GDPR — General Data Protection Regulation (EU)
Additional features:
- Brave Rewards — watch ads to earn crypto tokens
- Brave Wallet — buy, store, send, or swap your crypto
- Brave Search — browse without being tracked
- Password manager — store passwords safely
Availability
- Windows
- MacOS
- Linux
- Android
- iOS
Do You Need More Security Tools with Brave?
Brave has some excellent built-in privacy and security options, but no browser is going to protect you from every possible threat online alone. For example, your IP address will still be visible unless you are using Brave with Tor, which will have a sizable impact on performance, or you would have to subscribe to Brave VPN, which is limited compared to other premium VPNs, like SaviourVPN, at a much steeper price point.
Furthermore, Brave doesn’t have malware protection either. To stay fully protected online, you should pair Brave with trusted tools like antivirus software and a reliable VPN. If you go with a bundle like SaviourVPN, you get the peace of mind of security, unlimited bandwidth, encryption, and access to the entire internet regardless of geographical barriers.
Is switching to Brave worth it?
Brave is a privacy-centric browser that prioritizes security and privacy from the outset. The advanced built-in tools make the Brave browser safe and fast while providing quick browsing. That said, there are many contrasting user experiences, so it’s recommended to try this browser on your own.
Just make sure to pair it with a secure VPN like SaviourVPN to enhance your browsing safety!
FAQs
What is the Brave browser controversy?
Brave has had its share of controversies too; notable blunders include criticism of the CEO’s political leanings, selling copyrighted data for AI training, auto-filling URLs with affiliate links (unbeknownst to users), unsolicited crypto donations to content creators, and installing VPNs configured or done unbeknownst to users.
Is the Brave browser really free?
Yes, Brave is free to download, learn, and use. Brave has ad-blocking, privacy features, and other native tools and services for free. They offer some optional paid services and subscriptions, such as Brave’s VPN.
Is Brave safe to use for banking online?
Generally speaking, yes. Brave has robust privacy protections and upgrades HTTP to HTTPS, so it is deemed secure for online banking. However, your own online security practices are equally important (e.g., using two-factor authentication, securing passwords, enabling banking notifications if available, and never logging in over public Wi-Fi).
Is Brave secure for Android users?
Yes, Brave has the same core privacy and security features on Android as it offers for desktops, including blocking ads, blocking sending information to trackers, and protecting against fingerprinting. It is a solid option for mobile users who place a priority on privacy.
Is Brave safer than Chrome?
Both are based on Chromium, so their performance and compatibility are fairly equal. However, Brave has a privacy advantage, as it blocks trackers, ads, and fingerprinting by default, making it safer for privacy-conscious users from the outset.
