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ShieldFive Help

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Browser compatibility and requirements

ShieldFive works in all modern browsers that support Web Crypto API for secure, client-side encryption.

Supported Browsers

ShieldFive is fully supported on:

  • Google Chrome: Version 90 or newer (recommended)

  • Mozilla Firefox: Version 88 or newer

  • Microsoft Edge: Version 90 or newer

  • Safari: Version 14 or newer (macOS and iOS)

  • Brave: Version 1.24 or newer

  • Opera: Version 76 or newer

We recommend using the latest version of your preferred browser for the best performance and security.

Mobile Browsers

ShieldFive works on mobile devices:

  • iOS Safari: iOS 14 or newer

  • Chrome for Android: Latest version

  • Firefox for Android: Latest version

Note: Mobile devices may be slower when encrypting large files (over 500 MB). For the best experience with large files, use a desktop or laptop computer.

Required Browser Features

Your browser must support these technologies:

  • Web Crypto API: For secure client-side encryption

  • JavaScript ES2020: For modern code execution

  • WebAssembly: For high-performance cryptography

  • Fetch API: For file uploads and downloads

  • Local Storage: For session management

All modern browsers released in the last 2-3 years support these features.

Unsupported Browsers

ShieldFive will not work properly on:

  • Internet Explorer (all versions - no longer supported by Microsoft)
  • Very old browser versions (pre-2020)
  • Browsers with JavaScript disabled
  • Text-only browsers

If ShieldFive doesn't load, please update your browser to the latest version.

Recommended System Requirements

For the best experience:

  • Minimum: 4 GB RAM, dual-core processor

  • Recommended: 8 GB+ RAM, quad-core processor

  • For large files (over 1 GB): 16 GB+ RAM recommended

Encryption happens in your browser using your device's CPU and memory. More powerful devices encrypt faster.

Internet Connection

Requirements for using ShieldFive:

  • Minimum: Stable broadband connection (5 Mbps+)

  • Recommended: 25 Mbps+ for large file uploads

  • For files over 1 GB: 100 Mbps+ recommended

ShieldFive works on slower connections but uploads will take longer. Encryption happens offline in your browser, so connection speed only affects upload/download time.

Browser Extensions and Add-ons

Compatible with most extensions, but be aware:

  • Ad blockers are fine and won't interfere

  • VPNs and privacy extensions work without issues

  • Some aggressive anti-tracking extensions may cause problems

  • Script blockers must allow JavaScript for ShieldFive to work

If you experience issues, try temporarily disabling extensions to see if they're the cause.

Privacy and Incognito Mode

ShieldFive works in private browsing mode:

  • Chrome Incognito: Fully supported

  • Firefox Private Browsing: Fully supported

  • Safari Private Browsing: Fully supported

Note: In private mode, you'll be signed out when you close the browser. Your vault key will also be cleared from memory.

Performance Tips

Get the best performance from ShieldFive:

  • Close unnecessary browser tabs before encrypting large files
  • Keep your browser updated to the latest version
  • Use a modern browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge perform best)
  • Avoid using ShieldFive during other intensive tasks
  • Keep the ShieldFive tab focused during encryption

Troubleshooting Browser Issues

If ShieldFive isn't working properly:

  1. Clear your browser cache and cookies
  2. Update your browser to the latest version
  3. Disable browser extensions temporarily
  4. Try a different browser to isolate the issue

  5. Check browser console for error messages (F12 → Console tab)

  6. Contact support if issues persist

HTTPS Requirement

ShieldFive requires a secure HTTPS connection:

  • Web Crypto API only works over HTTPS
  • Your browser will show a lock icon in the address bar
  • All data transmission is encrypted end-to-end

This ensures your connection to ShieldFive cannot be intercepted.