A Secure Web Gateway (SWG) is a security control that sits between users and the internet to inspect, filter, and control web traffic. If you’re asking what is Secure Web Gateway, it’s the policy and protection layer that blocks malware and phishing, enforces acceptable-use and compliance rules, and keeps data from leaking over the web—on site or remote. SWGs run as cloud services or appliances and typically integrate with identity, endpoint, and SIEM tools for unified visibility.
We often see IT teams adopt SWG as part of an SSE/SASE strategy to secure direct-to-cloud access for hybrid workers and branch sites without backhauling traffic. Decrypting TLS where policy allows, SWGs add the context needed to spot risky apps and stop sophisticated threats in real time.
Key capabilities include:
- Threat defense: Malware/phishing filtering, sandboxing, and reputation checks.
- URL/content control: Category and risk-based web filtering with granular policies.
- TLS inspection: Decrypt/inspect/re-encrypt HTTPS per policy.
- App & data controls: Shadow IT visibility, CASB-style governance, and DLP.
- Everywhere coverage: Agent, proxy, or PAC for users on and off network.
Our take? An SWG turns the busiest attack channel into a governed pathway—fast, safe, and measurable.
If you’re mapping pilots, policies, and rollout for hybrid work, explore our Secure Web Gateway (SWG) Guide for a pragmatic path from baseline filtering to full data and app controls.
