Securing your Windows PC and protecting your privacy can feel confusing, especially if you’re a beginner. Fortunately, there are free tools that make these important tasks simple and straightforward. In this guide, we’ll walk you through practical steps you can take to improve your security and privacy on Windows using easy, free solutions. Let’s get started.
Why Should You Care About Security and Privacy?
Every day, your Windows computer is exposed to online threats—viruses, hackers, and websites that collect your personal data. Protecting your system ensures your files, photos, and personal information stay safe from misuse.
What Free Software Can Help?
Several free programs can help you manage security and privacy. We’ll focus on user-friendly solutions that don’t require technical knowledge:
– Windows Security (built-in)
– Glary Utilities (for privacy cleanup and optimization)
– A trusted web browser with privacy features (such as Microsoft Edge or Mozilla Firefox)
How To Use Windows Security for Basic Protection
Step 1: Open Windows Security
– Click the Start menu.
– Type “Windows Security” and select it from the results.
Step 2: Run a Quick Virus Scan
– In the Windows Security window, click “Virus & threat protection.”
– Select “Quick scan.”
Windows will check your computer for viruses and remove any threats it finds.
Step 3: Check Firewall Protection
– Click “Firewall & network protection.”
– Ensure the firewall is “On” for your active network (you’ll see a green checkmark).
Step 4: Review Security Settings
– Click “App & browser control.”
– Set “Check apps and files” and “SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge” to “Warn” or “Block” for extra security.
How Can You Improve Your Privacy Settings?
Step 1: Adjust Privacy Options
– Open the Start menu and select “Settings.”
– Click “Privacy & security.”
– Review each category (like Location, Camera, Microphone) and turn off access for apps you don’t use.
Step 2: Manage Diagnostic Data
– In “Privacy & security,” click “Diagnostics & feedback.”
– Set “Send optional diagnostic data” to “Off.”
Using Glary Utilities for Privacy Cleanup
Glary Utilities is a free and easy-to-use program that helps you clean your digital footprints and optimize your PC.
Step 1: Download and Install Glary Utilities
– Go to the official Glary Utilities website.
– Download and install the free version.
Step 2: Run a 1-Click Maintenance
– Open Glary Utilities.
– Click the “1-Click Maintenance” tab.
– Check the boxes for “Spyware Remover,” “Tracks Eraser,” and “Temporary Files Cleaner.”
– Click “Scan for Issues.”
After scanning, click “Repair Problems” to fix privacy risks and clear out unnecessary files.
Step 3: Use the Tracks Eraser
– In Glary Utilities, go to “Advanced Tools.”
– Find and select “Tracks Eraser.”
– Click “Scan,” then “Erase” to delete your browsing history, recent files, and other private data.
What About Secure Browsing?
Step 1: Use a Secure Web Browser
– Make sure your browser (like Edge or Firefox) is up to date.
– Open browser settings and look for privacy options.
Step 2: Turn On Tracking Protection
– In Edge: Settings > Privacy, search, and services > Choose “Strict” under Tracking prevention.
– In Firefox: Options > Privacy & Security > Select “Strict” under Enhanced Tracking Protection.
Step 3: Use Private Browsing Mode
– Press Ctrl + Shift + N (Edge/Chrome) or Ctrl + Shift + P (Firefox) to open a private window that doesn’t save your browsing history.
How Do You Keep Everything Up to Date?
Security updates are crucial for protection. Here’s how:
Step 1: Update Windows
– Open Settings > Windows Update.
– Click “Check for updates” and install any available updates.
Step 2: Update Your Software
– Glary Utilities can also help you find outdated programs.
Open Glary Utilities > Advanced Tools > “Software Update” to check for outdated applications.
Summary
You don’t need to be a computer expert to protect your privacy and security. Free software like Windows Security and Glary Utilities make these tasks simple and effective. By following these easy steps, you can keep your personal information safe and enjoy a smoother, worry-free Windows experience.