Microsoft continues its efforts to improve its Edge browser by adding new features that will differentiate it from its rivals. The company is currently working on a VPN feature that will be integrated into the browser and will be called “Microsoft Edge Secure Network.” However, it is worth noting that this feature will not replace your regular VPN.
See also: How to install Microsoft Edge on Linux?
Edge Secure Network is powered by Cloudflare and aims to protect users' devices and sensitive data while they browse . This VPN feature is in early development and is available to select users. At this time, it is not considered a full-fledged VPN service like those offered in competing browsers like Opera.
How does Microsoft Edge’s Secure Network;
According to document and some tests that have been conducted, Edge uses Cloudflare routing to encrypt users' internet connections and protect their data from various online threats.
Microsoft says that the Edge Secure network feature sends user traffic through an encrypted tunnel to create a secure connection, which means that securely accessed even HTTP URLs Microsoft wants to make it harder for attackers to obtain users, while with this VPN service in Edge it can also eliminate online tracking.
Additionally, due to routing through Cloudflare, users' location remains hidden and their real IP address is hidden behind Cloudflare's network. It replaces the geographic location with a similar address (closest Cloudflare server) to make it harder for online trackers to follow you online.
See also: How to try Microsoft Edge's new Super Duper Secure Mode
Microsoft Edge Secure Network: Does not replace your VPN
As we said above, Microsoft Edge's built-in VPN feature offers protection, but it is not able to replace your regular VPN.
In fact, it's likely using Cloudflare's Warp – a free service that ensures all your traffic remains private between your device and the origin server.
According to Bleeping Computer, Edge's VPN does not allow you to select your location. It only protects traffic with encryption and uses 1.1.1.1 to optimize your DNS for faster connection.
However, you can use Edge’s Secure Network to bypass restrictions that have been set by an ISP or the government.
It's worth noting that Microsoft Edge's VPN isn't ideal for streaming. Since it doesn't let you choose location , it's not possible to stream geo-restricted content on platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime.
See also: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge & Brave: What settings to change to enhance privacy?
Streaming is difficult because of a second limitation of the Edge Secure Network. According to the support document, only 1 gigabyte of free data will be offered each month when you sign in to Microsoft Edge with Microsoft account. After that limit, you'll have to wait until the following month to use the feature again. That's probably enough for basic browsing, but not for streaming.
Therefore, it seems that Edge's Secure Network is safe, reliable and useful, but it is not a solution that could effectively replace the more traditional VPNs, at least for now.
Source: Bleeping Computer
