Zscaler buys SquareX to extend Zero Trust security into browsers

February 6, 2026

Zscaler has acquired SquareX, a specialist in browser-based security technology, as the company looks to push zero trust protections deeper into everyday browser use and prepare enterprises for the security challenges of the AI era.

The acquisition is designed to advance zero trust browser security by allowing organisations to embed lightweight security extensions directly into standard browsers, removing the need for third-party enterprise browsers. The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Zscaler said the move builds on its long-standing effort to replace legacy remote access technologies such as VPNs and virtual desktop infrastructure, which it argues are costly, complex, and vulnerable to modern threats. The company disrupted this market with the launch of Zscaler Private Access, shifting enterprise connectivity away from network-based access and towards identity- and policy-driven zero trust models. Through a lightweight agent, Zscaler already delivers device posture checks and secure access for tens of millions of users globally.

SquareX, meanwhile, focuses on extending security controls directly into the browser itself. Its technology enables organisations to secure access to SaaS and private applications on unmanaged or bring-your-own devices without requiring a full security agent or forcing users into a separate enterprise browser. By integrating SquareX’s approach, Zscaler aims to apply the same zero trust controls it uses on managed devices to users working in their preferred browsers, while maintaining strong protections around data access and AI-driven interactions.

Zscaler said the acquisition reflects growing demand from enterprises that are increasingly distributed, device-agnostic, and reliant on browser-based workflows. As cyber threats continue to evolve and AI tools become more deeply embedded into business processes, the company believes browser-level enforcement will become a critical control point for zero trust strategies.

Zscaler CEO Jay Chaudhry said, “Enterprises have historically relied on legacy VPNs and VDIs, but these technologies are fundamentally flawed and laden with security risks. With SquareX, Zscaler is deepening our Zero Trust ExchangeTM 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.”

SquareX founder Vivek Ramachandran said, “By integrating with Zscaler, we will enable organizations to secure SaaS and private applications across any device – managed or BYOD – without compromising productivity. 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.”