Securing your Windows PC and maintaining your privacy doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. There are powerful free tools and built-in features that, when used correctly, can protect your sensitive data and keep your system safe from threats. This guide provides intermediate Windows users with actionable, step-by-step instructions to master both security and privacy protection using free software solutions.
Why should you care about security and privacy?
Cyber threats and privacy breaches are increasingly common. Malware, spyware, and ransomware can compromise your data, while intrusive tracking and data collection can erode your privacy. Proactive steps can drastically reduce these risks.
Which free software should you use for security and privacy?
There are several respected free tools available:
– Windows Security (Windows Defender): Built-in antivirus and firewall protection.
– Glary Utilities: Comprehensive privacy cleaner and system optimizer.
– Malwarebytes Free: On-demand malware scanner.
– VeraCrypt: Powerful encryption tool for files and drives.
– Mozilla Firefox/Brave: Privacy-respecting browsers.
– Bitwarden: Free password manager.
How to secure your Windows system using built-in tools
1. Enable Windows Security (Defender)
– Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security.
– Click “Open Windows Security.”
– Ensure “Virus & threat protection,” “Firewall & network protection,” and “App & browser control” are all active.
– Run a full scan regularly.
2. Keep Windows updated
– Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
– Click “Check for updates.”
– Enable automatic updates for security patches.
3. Configure the Windows Firewall
– In Windows Security, select “Firewall & network protection.”
– Make sure the firewall is on for all network types (Domain, Private, Public).
– Click “Allow an app through firewall” to review and control which applications have network access.
How to enhance privacy with Glary Utilities
Glary Utilities offers a suite of free tools to boost privacy and optimize your PC. Here’s how to use it effectively:
1. Download and install Glary Utilities from the official website.
2. Launch the program and select “1-Click Maintenance.”
– This cleans temporary files, tracks, and other privacy-compromising items in one go.
3. Use the “Privacy & Security” section for deeper control:
– Click “Tracks Eraser” to remove browser history, cookies, and other traces from multiple browsers.
– Use “File Shredder” to permanently delete sensitive files—preventing recovery by unauthorized users.
– Employ “Disk Cleaner” and “Registry Cleaner” to remove leftover data and sensitive registry entries from removed software.
– Schedule regular cleanups for ongoing protection.
What extra steps can you take for advanced privacy?
1. Encrypt sensitive files and drives
– Download VeraCrypt and install it.
– Launch VeraCrypt, click “Create Volume,” and follow the wizard to create an encrypted container or encrypt a full drive.
– Mount the encrypted drive only when needed, keeping your data inaccessible if your PC is compromised.
2. Use a privacy-focused browser
– Install Mozilla Firefox or Brave.
– Set privacy settings to “Strict” (Firefox: Menu > Settings > Privacy & Security).
– Add recommended extensions: uBlock Origin for ads and trackers, HTTPS Everywhere for secure connections.
3. Manage your passwords securely
– Download Bitwarden and create a free account.
– Save all your passwords in Bitwarden and enable two-factor authentication for your account.
– Use unique, strong passwords for every site.
4. Scan for malware regularly
– Install Malwarebytes Free.
– Perform weekly on-demand scans to catch threats that may bypass real-time protection.
How do you review and minimize your digital footprint?
1. Regularly check app permissions
– Go to Settings > Privacy.
– Review permissions for each category (location, camera, microphone).
– Turn off permissions for apps that don’t need them.
2. Control startup programs
– Open Glary Utilities > “Startup Manager.”
– Disable unnecessary programs to reduce attack surfaces and improve performance.
3. Clear old accounts and data
– Periodically review your online accounts.
– Close accounts you no longer use and delete saved data where possible.
What should you do if you suspect a breach?
– Disconnect your PC from the internet immediately.
– Run full scans with Windows Defender and Malwarebytes.
– Use Glary Utilities’ File Shredder to securely delete suspicious files.
– Change all account passwords with Bitwarden after cleaning your system.
– Restore backups if you suspect a deep compromise.
Conclusion
By combining built-in Windows features with powerful free software like Glary Utilities, VeraCrypt, Bitwarden, and privacy browsers, you can significantly enhance your system’s security and privacy. Routine maintenance, regular updates, and careful management of data and permissions go a long way in keeping your Windows PC secure in today’s digital world.