TL;DR
Windsurf (by Codeium) is a newer AI IDE with strong privacy claims. Your code is processed for AI features but Codeium states it's not used for training. Like all AI coding tools, generated code needs security review. Enterprise plans offer additional controls. Similar security profile to Cursor, with the same need to review AI suggestions before production use.
What is Windsurf?
Windsurf is an AI-powered IDE built by Codeium, the company behind the popular Codeium AI coding assistant. Like Cursor, it's a full IDE (based on VS Code) with integrated AI features including code completion, chat, and multi-file editing capabilities.
Our Verdict
What's Good
- Claims no training on user code
- Codeium's enterprise track record
- SOC 2 Type II certified
- Local code storage
- Strong free tier
What to Watch
- Newer product, less track record
- AI code needs review
- Context sent to servers
- Limited enterprise docs
- No self-hosted option
Privacy and Data Handling
Codeium's Privacy Model
Codeium has positioned itself as a privacy-focused alternative in the AI coding space. Their key claims:
- User code is never used for training
- Code snippets processed but not stored long-term
- Enterprise customers get additional guarantees
- SOC 2 Type II certification
Note: Windsurf inherits Codeium's privacy practices. If you've used Codeium's VS Code extension and trusted their approach, similar considerations apply to Windsurf.
What Data is Sent?
When using AI features, Windsurf sends code context to Codeium's servers:
- Current file being edited
- Related files for context
- Your prompts and questions
Security of Generated Code
Windsurf's AI generates code with the same potential issues as other AI tools:
| Risk | Likelihood | Mitigation |
|---|---|---|
| Hardcoded secrets | Medium | Review before committing |
| Missing auth | Medium-High | Add explicitly in prompts |
| SQL injection | Low-Medium | Use parameterized queries |
| XSS vulnerabilities | Medium | Review output handling |
| Insecure defaults | Medium | Verify configurations |
Windsurf vs Cursor vs Copilot
| Aspect | Windsurf | Cursor | Copilot |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent company | Codeium | Anysphere | GitHub/Microsoft |
| Training on user code | No (claimed) | Opt-out available | Opt-out/Business tier |
| SOC 2 | Yes | Yes | Business/Enterprise |
| Free tier | Yes (generous) | Limited | No (trial only) |
| IDE approach | Full IDE | Full IDE | Extension |
Using Windsurf Safely
Best Practices
- Review all AI code: Check for security issues before using
- Use for appropriate projects: Consider sensitivity level
- Configure exclusions: Keep sensitive files out of AI context
- Add security prompts: Ask for secure implementations
- Verify auth: Don't assume generated auth is complete
Important: Windsurf is relatively new compared to Cursor or Copilot. While Codeium has a good track record, you may want to monitor security news and updates as the product matures.
Is Windsurf better than Cursor for privacy?
Both tools have similar privacy profiles. Codeium (Windsurf's maker) has emphasized privacy from the start, while Cursor has added privacy features over time. For most users, the difference is minimal. Check both privacy policies for your specific needs.
Can I use Windsurf for enterprise code?
Codeium offers enterprise plans with additional security controls. Review their enterprise documentation and consider whether their privacy guarantees meet your organization's requirements. SOC 2 certification provides some assurance.
Is Windsurf free?
Windsurf offers a generous free tier with AI completions and chat. Paid plans add more features and capacity. The free tier is more generous than Cursor's or Copilot's offerings.
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