Microsoft Edge 135: Major Security and Productivity Enhancements

Microsoft's latest update to its flagship web browser underscores the company's unwavering focus on balancing productivity with security. With Edge 135, users — and particularly enterprise customers — can expect a suite of changes that reinforce safe browsing while simultaneously enhancing work-centric functionalities.

Security Upgrades: Strengthening the Browser's Foundation​

One of the primary highlights of Edge 135 is its newfound commitment to robust security measures. At the core of this update is the revamped root certificate store, part of the Microsoft Trusted Root Program. By updating this store, Microsoft aims to mitigate security risks inherent in outdated or vulnerable certificate validations.

• Certificates validating certain Entrust root certificates will no longer be trusted by default if their earliest Signed Certificate Timestamp (SCT) is after April 16, 2025.
• Enterprises that rely on these certificates are urged to proactively update them or, alternatively, assess the risks and continue to trust the certificate locally.

This update is not merely a routine maintenance task. It represents a strategic pivot toward a more secure browsing experience, designed to preempt potential threats before they evolve into real-world breaches. For organizations, this means incorporating an evaluation process into their security routines. IT teams will need to identify which certificates might fall into this category and ensure that necessary replacements are in place. The direction here is clear—fail to comply with these updated standards, and you risk weakening your security framework.
Key takeaways in the security domain:

• Enhanced certificate validation helps minimize emerging cyber threats.
• Enterprises must review and potentially replace impacted certificates to maintain secure communications.
• The update reinforces Microsoft's long-term commitment to user security, aligning with broader industry trends in cybersecurity advisories and Microsoft security patches.

Enhanced Enterprise Versatility: Work-Related Searches and Productivity Tools​

The modern enterprise environment demands tools that not only protect but also empower. Recognizing this, Microsoft has integrated work-related functionalities directly into Edge. The new Edge for Business configuration now includes work-related searches seamlessly embedded in the address bar, redirecting users from Bing to M365.cloud.microsoft.
Imagine searching for that important project document or a bookmarked colleague's contact — all made even more intuitive with this streamlined approach. This update marks a significant departure from the traditional search model, one that usually blends personal and work contexts without proper differentiation.

• Administrators now have greater control over the browsing experience tailored for business users.
• The curated work-related content now appears as part of the browser’s interface, reducing the friction that often comes with accessing enterprise resources.
• By redirecting queries to a dedicated work portal, Microsoft ensures that professionals have quick access to documents, bookmarks, and contact information, which contributes notably to enhanced productivity.

This development is a nod to the ongoing merger between cloud computing and productivity tools. Microsoft 365 has long been at the forefront of this fusion, and integrating work-related searches directly into Edge bolsters this ecosystem, providing users with a more connected and efficient workflow.

The Work Feed Overhaul: A New Tab Page Designed for Productivity​

In a bid to centralize work resources, Microsoft is overhauling the Work Feed on the Enterprise New Tab Page. Recently updated, the "My Feed" for Microsoft 365 users now features a refreshed interface that prioritizes productivity tools while discarding less essential elements.
Starting mid-April, eligible users will see a feed that brings together:

• Recent document activity
• SharePoint site updates
• Upcoming Outlook events
• To-Do tasks

Notably, content previously cluttering the Work Feed—especially details about network activity—is being removed to create a cleaner, more focused experience. The intent is not only to declutter the interface but also to ensure that users are immediately presented with the most relevant, productivity-enhancing data.
For enterprises, this move is particularly significant as it provides a more intuitive view of collaborative efforts and project statuses. With everything from the latest updates on shared documents to upcoming meetings neatly organized at the New Tab Page, routine tasks are just a glance away. This directly contributes to efficiency, reducing the time spent switching between disparate applications.
Highlights of the Work Feed update:

• A refreshed interface that prioritizes key productivity metrics.
• Simplification of the user experience by removing peripheral content such as network activities.
• A design approach that reinforces Microsoft 365’s integrated ecosystem, making multitasking and collaboration effortless.

Additional Usability Enhancements: Synchronization and Smart Suggestions​

Beyond the major security and business-focused updates, Edge 135 brings subtle but impactful refinements to the overall user experience. One such improvement is the enhancement of Edge Sync, which ensures that users' data remains consistent across devices. Whether transitioning from a desktop to a mobile device or switching between workstations, your browsing experience remains seamless and uninterrupted.
Additionally, Bing's trending suggestions have made their way into the address bar dropdown on the New Tab Page. This feature not only keeps users updated with the latest online trends but also allows for a more dynamic and engaging browsing session. Administrators can also manage this feature through the AddressBarTrendingSuggestEnabled policy, ensuring that organizations can control the flow of trending content in professional environments.
What do these updates mean for users?

• Enhanced sync capability ensures a unified browsing experience, reducing the friction often associated with multi-device workflows.
• Incorporating trending suggestions offers a balance between personal interest and professional relevance.
• Administrators gain granular control over content delivery, ensuring compliance with enterprise policies while still keeping the browser fresh and interactive.

The Broader Implication: Aligning with Modern IT and Workplace Trends​

Microsoft's decision to roll out these updates with Edge 135 is not happening in a vacuum. The broader IT landscape is evolving, with enterprises increasingly seeking solutions that blend security with seamless productivity. When one examines the trends in Windows 11 updates and cybersecurity advisories, a clear pattern emerges: users demand a secure environment that doesn’t compromise on ease of use.
Consider the following broader impacts:

• The enhanced security measures dovetail nicely with the larger movement toward zero-trust security models. By updating root certificates preemptively, Microsoft moves one step closer to a more resilient infrastructure.
• The integration of productivity tools into the browser represents an acknowledgment of the blurred lines between personal and professional life in today’s digital workspace. Tools that merge these aspects lead to improved efficiency and satisfaction, elements crucial in modern IT environments.
• With Edge Sync and dynamic content suggestions, Microsoft is essentially sharpening its competitive edge (pun intended) in the browser market—a space where continuous evolution is key.

For IT departments and enterprise strategists, the update signals the need for a proactive rather than reactive approach in monitoring and maintaining digital infrastructure. Updating certificates and adapting to new browser functionalities require both technical precision and strategic planning.

A Step-by-Step Guide for Enterprises: Transitioning to Edge 135​

For enterprises ready to transition smoothly to Edge 135, a well-thought-out plan is essential. Here’s a practical guide to help IT teams navigate the process:

• Identify Affected Certificates:
• Audit your current certificate portfolio to determine if any are impacted by the new trust criteria.
• Use available tools or consult with your certificate authority to check the Signed Certificate Timestamp for each certificate.
• Plan for Replacement:
• Develop a timeline for replacing certificates that might lose trust after April 16, 2025.
• Consider running a risk assessment to decide if your organization might temporarily continue to trust certain root certificates locally while transitioning to more secure alternatives.
• Educate Users:
• Inform all end-users, especially those in business-critical roles, about the upcoming changes in browser functionalities.
• Provide guidelines on using the new work-related search features and navigating the updated Work Feed.
• Update Administrative Policies:
• Utilize policies such as AddressBarTrendingSuggestEnabled to customize the user experience in line with your organizational standards.
• Ensure that your IT policies are in sync with the browser’s new security requirements.
• Test the Implementation:
• Prior to a full rollout, conduct pilot tests within selected departments to catch any unforeseen issues.
• Gather feedback from these pilot groups and adjust policies or training materials accordingly.
• Rollout and Monitor:
• Once the updates are deployed, monitor system performance and user feedback closely.
• Be prepared to provide additional support as users acclimate to the changes, ensuring minimal disruption in daily operations.

Summarizing the Key Benefits​

To recap, Microsoft Edge 135 introduces several compelling improvements:

• A fortified certificate store aimed at preemptively countering security threats.
• Seamless integration of enterprise-focused functionalities directly in the browser’s interface.
• A revamped Work Feed that prioritizes productivity by curating essential work resources.
• Enhanced synchronization and dynamic suggestions that cater to both personal and professional browsing needs.

These updates are a testament to Microsoft’s dedication to evolving with the times—keeping security tight while facilitating a more integrated, productive work environment. Whether you’re an enterprise IT professional or an end-user relying on a robust browser experience, these changes represent a significant step forward.

Looking Ahead: The Road to Continuous Improvement​

Microsoft’s release of Edge 135 is not just another browser update—it’s an indication of the company’s long-term strategy. As technology evolves alongside emerging cybersecurity threats, maintaining a proactive stance becomes critical. Enterprises that prepare now by updating certificates and familiarizing themselves with new functionalities will be better positioned for future challenges.
The transition also reflects a broader trend in software development, where user experience, security, and productivity are inextricably linked. As more organizations adopt remote and hybrid work models, the tools that underpin these environments must adapt accordingly. Edge 135 embodies this evolution, paving the way for a browser that’s both a shield against cyber threats and a catalyst for productivity.
In conclusion, Microsoft Edge 135 is a well-rounded update that embraces the dual imperatives of cybersecurity and work efficiency. With a detailed focus on certificate management, work-oriented search enhancements, and an overhauled New Tab Page, the update is designed to streamline workflows and create a more secure digital landscape. For enterprises, this means a whole new realm of possibilities—but also the responsibility of ensuring that their digital infrastructure keeps pace with these rapid changes.
As IT professionals assess the impact of this release, the key question remains: how can organizations best navigate these changes to ensure continuity, security, and enhanced productivity? The answer lies in a proactive approach, continuous monitoring, and an unwavering commitment to innovation—an approach that Edge 135 clearly encourages.

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Source: Yahoo Microsoft Edge 135 Delivers Productivity and Security Updates