Zscaler, Inc. has acquired SquareX to extend its Zero Trust capabilities directly into standard browsers on any device. This strategic move strengthens browser security without requiring third-party enterprise browsers, full agents, or legacy solutions like VPNs and Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI). By embedding lightweight extensions into widely used browsers such as Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge, Zscaler enables organizations to apply precise Zero Trust policies to secure SaaS, private applications, and AI-driven interactions across managed and unmanaged (BYOD) devices.
Traditional approaches to securing unmanaged devices—such as vulnerability-prone VPNs or resource-intensive VDI—fall short in today’s threat landscape and hinder productivity. Zscaler has long led the shift to true Zero Trust with Zscaler Private Access (ZPA), delivering agent-based security and posture checks to millions of users. The SquareX acquisition builds on this foundation by bringing equivalent protection into everyday browsers, addressing the growing need to secure AI-era workflows without forcing users into restricted environments.
“Enterprises have historically relied on legacy VPNs and VDIs, but these technologies are fundamentally flawed and laden with security risks,” said Jay Chaudhry, CEO, Chairman, and Founder of Zscaler. “With SquareX, Zscaler is deepening our Zero Trust Exchange™ Platform’s capabilities in standard browsers, such as Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge, to stop threats without having to deploy a third-party enterprise browser. Zscaler continues to set the standard as we evolve into an increasingly powerful platform for global enterprise security.”
“By integrating with Zscaler, we will enable organizations to secure SaaS and private applications across any device - managed or BYOD - without compromising productivity,” said Vivek Ramachandran, founder of SquareX. “This approach allows IT leaders to replace expensive, insecure legacy access tools with precise Zero Trust policies that protect data and AI interactions based on an organization’s specific risk profile.”
This acquisition positions Zscaler to meet the evolving demands of distributed enterprises, where users access critical applications from diverse devices and locations. It reinforces the company’s leadership in cloud security by expanding Zero Trust coverage to the browser layer, ensuring consistent protection against emerging threats while supporting seamless digital transformation.
About Zscaler
Zscaler accelerates digital transformation so customers can be more agile, efficient, resilient, and secure. The Zscaler Zero Trust Exchange™ platform protects thousands of customers from cyberattacks and data loss by securely connecting users, devices, and applications in any location. Distributed across more than 160 data centers globally, the SASE-based Zero Trust Exchange is the world’s largest in-line cloud security platform.