Protecting your Windows PC from ever-evolving cyber threats and privacy invasions is essential for both personal and professional use. Many users overlook the powerful free tools and features available to help manage their security and privacy effectively. Leveraging these solutions, you can significantly reduce your risk profile without spending a cent. In this article, we’ll break down twelve free software features every Windows user should know, with practical examples and step-by-step advice for both beginners and advanced users.
For Beginners: Essential Tools and Simple Steps
1. Integrated Windows Defender Antivirus
What is it?
Windows Defender comes pre-installed with Windows 10 and 11, providing real-time protection against viruses, ransomware, and malware.
How to use it:
– Open the Start menu and type “Windows Security.”
– Click “Virus & threat protection.”
– Ensure real-time protection is turned on.
– Run a quick or full scan regularly.
Benefits:
– No need to install third-party antivirus.
– Automatic updates keep you protected against new threats.
2. Windows Firewall
What is it?
A built-in feature to block unauthorized access to your PC and network.
How to use it:
– Open “Windows Security.”
– Click “Firewall & network protection.”
– Make sure your firewall is set to “On” for all network profiles.
Benefits:
– Prevents hackers from accessing your system.
– Simple interface for basic configuration.
3. Glary Utilities Privacy Cleaner
What is it?
Glary Utilities is a comprehensive system optimization tool with a dedicated privacy cleaner.
How to use it:
– Download and install Glary Utilities (free version).
– Launch the program and go to the “Privacy & Security” tab.
– Use “Tracks Eraser” to remove browsing history, cookies, and recent files list with one click.
Benefits:
– Quickly erases traces of your activity.
– Supports all popular browsers and Windows components.
4. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) App Integration
What is it?
Free apps like Microsoft Authenticator or Google Authenticator add an extra layer of security to your online accounts.
How to use it:
– Enable 2FA in your email, social media, and banking accounts.
– Follow on-screen instructions to pair your account with an authenticator app.
Benefits:
– Even if your password is leaked, attackers can’t access your account without the second factor.
5. Browser Security Extensions
What are they?
Free add-ons like uBlock Origin and HTTPS Everywhere increase browsing security.
How to use it:
– Open your browser’s extension store.
– Search for “uBlock Origin” and “HTTPS Everywhere.”
– Install and enable them.
Benefits:
– Blocks malicious ads and trackers.
– Ensures secure connections when possible.
For Advanced Users: Deeper Control and Customization
6. Windows BitLocker Drive Encryption
What is it?
Built-in tool for encrypting your hard drive, protecting files even if your computer is stolen.
How to use it (Pro/Enterprise editions):
– Search “Manage BitLocker” in the Start menu.
– Choose a drive and click “Turn on BitLocker.”
– Follow prompts to set a password or save a recovery key.
Benefits:
– Strong encryption with minimal performance impact.
– Protects sensitive data from unauthorized access.
7. Advanced Network Monitoring (Wireshark)
What is it?
Wireshark is a free, professional-grade network protocol analyzer.
How to use it:
– Download and install Wireshark.
– Run as administrator to capture your network traffic.
– Filter for suspicious activities, such as unknown outbound connections.
Benefits:
– Spot malware or spyware communication.
– Useful for diagnosing network security issues.
8. Glary Utilities File Shredder
What is it?
Allows secure deletion of files to prevent recovery.
How to use it:
– Open Glary Utilities.
– Navigate to “Privacy & Security” > “File Shredder.”
– Add files or folders and start the shredding process.
Benefits:
– Ensures deleted files cannot be recovered by recovery tools.
– Ideal for disposing of confidential information.
9. Password Manager
What is it?
KeePass and Bitwarden are free password managers that securely store strong, unique passwords.
How to use it:
– Download and install your preferred manager.
– Create a master password.
– Store logins for websites and applications.
Benefits:
– No need to remember multiple complex passwords.
– Auto-filling saves time and prevents phishing.
10. Windows Security Audit (Local Security Policy)
What is it?
Allows advanced users to review and adjust Windows security policies.
How to use it:
– Open the Start menu and type “secpol.msc.”
– Browse through policies such as Account Lockout or User Rights Assignment.
– Adjust settings for stricter security.
Benefits:
– Customizes system protection to suit your environment.
– Audits user and process permissions.
Bonus Features for All Users
11. Automatic Software Updates
What is it?
Keeping Windows and applications updated closes vulnerabilities.
How to use it:
– Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
– Set updates to automatic.
– Use Glary Utilities’ “Software Update” tool to check third-party apps for updates.
Benefits:
– Reduces risk from known exploits.
– Glary Utilities simplifies checking and updating in one place.
12. Private Browsing Modes
What is it?
Incognito/Private Browsing modes prevent your browser from saving history, cookies, and temporary files.
How to use it:
– In Chrome, press Ctrl+Shift+N; in Edge/Firefox, press Ctrl+Shift+P.
– Use this mode for sensitive sessions, such as online banking.
Benefits:
– Limits tracking and local data storage.
– Helps prevent targeted ads and information leaks.
Summary: Choosing the Right Tools for Your Needs
Whether you’re a beginner securing your PC for the first time or an advanced user tightening up your system’s defenses, these twelve features make a significant difference. For comprehensive maintenance and privacy management, Glary Utilities stands out with its easy-to-use privacy cleaner and file shredder, helping both novice and expert users streamline their security routines. By actively leveraging these free software features and adjusting settings according to your needs, you’ll greatly enhance your Windows system’s security and privacy without any added cost.