Development status Active | Stable release 17.1.0.2036 | |
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Initial release October 1, 2012 (2012-10-01) Operating system |
Yandex Browser is a freeware web browser developed by the Russian web search corporation Yandex that uses the Blink layout engine and is based on the Chromium open source project. The browser checks webpage security with the Yandex security system and checks downloaded files with Kaspersky anti-virus. The browser also uses Opera Software's Turbo technology to speed web browsing on slow connections.
Contents
The browser is available for Windows, OS X, Android and iOS. In October 2014 a Linux beta version was introduced.
Yandex is facing web search competition in Russia from Google Search. Google Chrome, Russia's most popular web browser, uses Google Search as its default search engine, and in June 2012 Mozilla Firefox, the world's third most popular web browser, signed a deal to replace Yandex Search as its default search engine with Google Search. As Yandex browser's "Smartbox" uses Yandex Search as its default search engine, the browser will help Yandex compete for Russian search market share.
Distinguishing features
Distinguishing features of the Yandex.Browser include the following:
DNS Spoofing Protection
Protect active security technology scans files and website for viruses, blocks fraudulent webpages, protects passwords and bank card details, and keeps online payments safe from theft.
DNSCrypt
The world's first browser with support for DNSCrypt technology. Encrypts DNS traffic. (For example, protection from the trojan DNSChanger, a tracking Internet provider, or hackers). The option needs to be enabled in the browser settings.
Protecting WiFi
When you connect to open WiFi-networks or to the points that use a weak WEP-defense, Yandex Browser automatically encrypts traffic between the user and the HTTP-sites.
Market share
According to Liveinternet.ru analytics, Yandex Browser reached 2.3% market share in Russia two months after its release. As of November 2016 Yandex Browser for computers reached 19.1% and 4.9% on mobile devices in Russia.