Google has announced a wide range of cybersecurity updates to Chrome OS, the operating system that powers Chromebook devices.
The update selection covers everything from new partner security integrations and data controls to hardware security updates.
Google says the latest set of measures was introduced in an effort to help businesses work toward a zero-trust model.
New partner security integrations
The new integrations, called the Chrome Enterprise Connectors Framework, will include links to the Netskope Security Cloud, as well as support for the Okta Identity Engine for Chrome OS policy, which will help enterprises meet their identity management needs.
The new set of integrations will also cover device management and will include closer collaboration with BlackBerry UEM and Samsung Knox Manager, as well as an update to Google's existing integration with VMware Workspace ONE.
Additionally, Google has added integrations for security insights and reporting, including one with the Splunk cloud platform.
Google also says that integrations with Palo Alto Networks and CrowdStrike will soon be available through our Chrome Enterprise Trusted Tester program.
What else?
Along with a tighter set of third-party integrations, Google also announced Chrome OS Data Controls, which it says will give users endpoint protection, preventing data leaks by letting IT set rules in Chrome OS about when to turn on controls for different Actions. These include copy and paste, taking screenshots, printing, and other activities that can lead to data loss.
Google also announced several security-focused hardware updates.
The P Elite Dragonfly Chromebook, the first Chrome OS device with Intel vPro Enterprise, will enable users to work with features like the HP Privacy Camera, fingerprint sensor, and optional HP Sure View Privacy Screen.
Google also introduced Intel vPro Enterprise for Chrome OS, which it says provides comprehensive hardware-based security through two key features: Key Locker, which can protect disk encryption keys and prevent leaks, and Intel Total Memory Encryption ( Intel TME), which helps ensure data leaving the chip into system memory is encrypted.