Chrome 87 released with fix for NAT
Chrome 87 Release Focuses on Security and Developer Features
Introduction:
Google has unveiled Chrome version 87, introducing key security enhancements, developer tools updates, and the deprecation of the FTP protocol. The release addresses the NAT Slipstream attack technique, bolsters web development capabilities, and showcases performance improvements.
Security Highlights:
1. **NAT Slipstream Attack Fix:**
- Chrome 87 mitigates the NAT Slipstream attack, discovered by security researcher Samy Kamkar.
- By blocking access to ports 5060 and 5061, Chrome becomes the first browser to counter this technique, preventing unauthorized access to internal networks.
2. **FTP Deprecation:**
- Continuing its phased approach, Google removes FTP support for half of Chrome's userbase in version 87.
- The complete removal of FTP support is planned for Chrome 88 in January, aligning with Google's efforts to enhance security by eliminating potentially vulnerable protocols.
Developer-Centric Features:
1. **New APIs and Developer Tools Updates:**
- Chrome 87 introduces several enhancements aimed at web developers.
- Notable additions include support for the Cookie Store API, CSS modifications for web fonts, enumeration of locally installed fonts by websites, and debugging of WebAuthn operations via Chrome DevTools.
2. **Webcam Stream Controls:**
- Developers gain control over pan, tilt, and zoom features for webcam streams, enhancing the possibilities for interactive web applications.
3. **Performance Improvements:**
- **Tab Throttling and Occlusion Tracking:**
- Tab throttling collaborates with occlusion tracking to intelligently manage background tabs, improving overall browser performance.
- Occlusion tracking identifies visible browser windows and tabs, enabling Chrome to optimize resource usage.
- **Back-Forward Cache:**
- Enabled by default in Chrome 87, back-forward caching, introduced in Chrome 79, enhances navigation events by approximately 20%.
Conclusion:
Chrome 87 marks a significant update, prioritizing both security and developer-centric features. The proactive approach to addressing emerging security threats, coupled with improvements to developer tools and overall performance, solidifies Chrome's position as a leading browser in the ever-evolving digital landscape. Users are encouraged to update to Chrome 87 to benefit from these enhancements and stay ahead in terms of both security and web development capabilities.