This article explains how Swif’s browser extension works on its own and how it expands when paired with the Swif MDM agent. It’s written for end users and admins who want a clear, non-technical overview.
At a glance
You can use the browser extension by itself after you log in to your Swif account.
Without the MDM agent, the extension provides core browsing protections and visibility.
With the MDM agent installed, advanced security features turn on automatically and apply to the device.
How the browser extension and MDM agent work together
Swif’s extension and MDM agent are designed to work as a system:
Browser extension: Handles what happens in the browser (web app access, blocking experiences, and browser-based detections).
MDM agent: Provides device-level context and enforcement (device posture, managed device identity, and device-scoped policy controls).
Because many newer security capabilities rely on device context, most advanced extension features require the MDM agent to be installed and the device to be enrolled.
What you get with and without the MDM agent
The extension and MDM agent work closely with each other. The extension can deliver basic protections by itself, but advanced security features require MDM enrollment.
Feature | Works with Extension Only (Logged In) | Requires MDM Agent | What Users Will Notice |
Blocklist (site and app blocking) | Yes | No | Blocked pages show a message in the browser; admins see activity in dashboards. |
Access tracking (app/site access visibility) | Yes | No | Normal browsing; extension quietly records access events when you’re logged in. |
Sign-up detection (new account creation alerts) Learn more → | Yes | No | You may see a prompt or notification when creating accounts on new services. |
PII monitoring (on-page sensitive data cues) | No (inactive without MDM) | Yes | With MDM, hints or warnings may appear if you interact with sensitive data in the browser. |
Upload restrictions (prevent risky file uploads) | No (inactive without MDM) | Yes | With MDM, certain uploads may be blocked or require confirmation in the browser. |
Sensitive app tracking (higher-risk app visibility) | No (inactive without MDM) | Yes | With MDM, access to sensitive apps is tracked with more context; users typically don’t see prompts. |
If you only use the extension without the MDM agent, advanced protections may still appear “present,” but they will be silently inactive—meaning they won’t prompt, block, or enforce until the device is enrolled in MDM.
What users will see
When logged in without MDM: You’ll see basic protections—blocked sites display a notice, and you may get gentle prompts on sign-ups.
When logged in with MDM: You might notice occasional warnings or blocks for uploads or sensitive data interactions. Many device checks and policy enforcements happen silently.
How to get the most from Swif
Install the Swif browser extension from your organization’s recommended source.
Open the extension and log in with your work account to enable core protections.
Enroll your device with the Swif MDM agent to activate advanced security features and device-scoped policies.
Best practice: Use the extension and MDM agent together. You’ll get stronger protection with minimal friction, and your security policies apply consistently to your managed device.
Troubleshooting
I’m not seeing any prompts or blocks: Confirm you are logged in to the extension. Advanced features stay inactive without MDM.
The extension says I’m logged out: Open the extension menu and sign in again with your work account, then refresh the page you’re testing.
I installed MDM but features still look basic: Make sure the device shows as enrolled and compliant in your company’s device portal, then restart the browser.
Uploads are being blocked unexpectedly: Check whether the site falls under upload restrictions. If you believe it’s safe, contact your admin to review the policy.
FAQ
Do I need the MDM agent to use the extension?
No. You can use the extension on its own after you log in. You’ll get blocklist, access tracking, and sign-up detection. For advanced security features, install the MDM agent.
Why are some features “silently inactive” without MDM?
Certain protections need device-level context to work correctly. Without the MDM agent, they remain installed but do not enforce actions or show prompts.
Will the MDM agent slow down my computer?
The agent is designed to be lightweight. Most checks and policy applications run in the background and should not noticeably affect performance.
Who can help if I have issues?
Reach out to your organization’s IT team or admin. If needed, they may escalate to Swif Support.