Microsoft has officially released the Security Baseline for Microsoft Edge version 139, available now through the Microsoft Security Compliance Toolkit. This update introduces an important configuration change and continues Microsoft’s efforts to strengthen browser security for enterprise environments.
What Changed in Edge 139?
🚫 SwiftShader Fallback Disabled by Default
The biggest update in this baseline is the removal of support for SwiftShader as a software fallback for WebGL rendering.
- Previous Behavior: When GPU acceleration was not available, SwiftShader provided software-based rendering for WebGL.
- New Baseline: The
EnableUnsafeSwiftShaderpolicy is now disabled by default, meaning SwiftShader will not be used unless administrators specifically enable it.
This change improves security by reducing potential attack vectors that malicious web content could exploit. While this may affect some virtualized environments where SwiftShader was useful, the new default ensures a stronger security posture.
🔗 Edge for Business Security Connectors
Another highlight of Edge 139 is the integration of Edge for Business security connectors. These connectors allow organizations to:
- Integrate Edge with existing authentication and Data Loss Prevention (DLP) systems.
- Gain real-time device-trust validation and browser telemetry.
- Enforce enterprise security and compliance policies directly within the browser.
For businesses, this means better visibility, tighter control, and simplified management of browser security across all users.
Why This Matters for Enterprises
| Benefit | Impact |
|---|---|
| Reduced Attack Surface | Disabling SwiftShader eliminates a risky fallback that could be exploited. |
| Improved Policy Enforcement | Security connectors bring DLP and compliance into the browser environment. |
| Easier Management | Delivered via the Security Compliance Toolkit, these baselines can be easily deployed with Group Policy Objects (GPOs). |
How to Deploy the Baseline
- Download the latest Security Baseline for Edge 139 from the Security Compliance Toolkit.
- Apply the settings using Group Policy or your preferred configuration management tools.
- Review your environment to determine if SwiftShader is required, particularly in virtualized setups. Re-enable only if absolutely necessary.
Final Thoughts
The Microsoft Edge 139 security baseline reinforces a proactive approach to enterprise security. By disabling SwiftShader and introducing business security connectors, Microsoft ensures Edge is not only secure by default but also easier to integrate into modern enterprise environments.
For IT admins and security teams, adopting this baseline is a recommended step toward maintaining a hardened, compliant, and future-ready browser environment.
👉 Stay ahead on Microsoft security updates—make sure your Edge policies align with the latest baseline.
