Windows operating systems come equipped with a range of built-in features designed to help you protect your PC from malware and other security threats. Whether you’re a casual user or a seasoned pro, understanding how to use these tools effectively is crucial. This guide walks you through 10 essential Windows features for malware protection, including step-by-step instructions and real-world examples. You’ll also find separate sections tailored for beginners and advanced users, so you can apply the best strategies for your skill level.
Beginner Strategies: Easy Steps for Everyday Protection
1. Windows Security (Windows Defender)
Windows Security is your first line of defense. It provides real-time protection against viruses, malware, and ransomware.
How to turn on and use Windows Security:
– Open Settings from the Start menu.
– Click on “Privacy & security.”
– Select “Windows Security,” then “Virus & threat protection.”
– Ensure that “Real-time protection” is turned on.
Tip: Run a quick scan regularly. Click “Quick scan” for a fast checkup, or “Full scan” for a thorough inspection.
2. Windows Firewall
The built-in firewall blocks unwanted network traffic and helps stop malicious software from communicating with the outside world.
To check your firewall status:
– Go to Settings > Privacy & security > Windows Security > Firewall & network protection.
– Make sure all network profiles have the firewall enabled.
3. SmartScreen Filter
SmartScreen protects you from phishing websites and harmful downloads in Microsoft Edge.
To confirm it’s on:
– Open Edge, click on the three dots in the top-right, select Settings.
– Go to “Privacy, search, and services.”
– Make sure “Microsoft Defender SmartScreen” is enabled.
4. User Account Control (UAC)
UAC warns you when software tries to make system changes.
To adjust UAC levels:
– Type “UAC” in the Start menu and select “Change User Account Control settings.”
– Move the slider to “Always notify” for maximum protection.
5. Automatic Updates
Keeping Windows updated closes security holes that malware can exploit.
How to check for updates:
– Go to Settings > Windows Update.
– Click “Check for updates” and install any available patches.
6. Controlled Folder Access
This stops unauthorized apps from modifying important folders—especially useful against ransomware.
Enable Controlled Folder Access:
– Open Windows Security > Virus & threat protection.
– Scroll to “Ransomware protection” and turn on “Controlled folder access.”
Advanced Strategies: Power Tools and Fine-Tuning
7. Windows Sandbox (Windows 10/11 Pro & Enterprise)
Windows Sandbox lets you run suspicious files in an isolated environment, preventing them from affecting your main system.
How to use Sandbox:
– In “Turn Windows features on or off,” check “Windows Sandbox” and restart your PC.
– Open Sandbox from the Start menu, test files inside, then close to erase all changes.
8. BitLocker Drive Encryption
BitLocker encrypts your entire drive, making data unreadable if your device is stolen or compromised.
To enable BitLocker (Pro/Enterprise editions):
– Search for “BitLocker” and select “Manage BitLocker.”
– Click “Turn on BitLocker” for your system drive, follow prompts to set a password or save your recovery key.
9. App & Browser Control
Fine-tune how Windows handles unrecognized apps, downloads, and web content.
To customize settings:
– Go to Windows Security > App & browser control.
– Adjust “Reputation-based protection” and “Exploit protection” for maximum security.
10. Windows Defender Offline Scan
Some malware hides itself so well it can only be removed before Windows starts. Defender’s offline scan can help.
How to run an offline scan:
– Open Windows Security > Virus & threat protection.
– Under “Current threats,” select “Scan options” and choose “Microsoft Defender Offline scan.”
– Click “Scan now” and let your PC restart.
Bonus Tip: Use Glary Utilities for Additional Security and Privacy
For users looking to go beyond the built-in features, Glary Utilities provides an extra line of defense. It offers tools like secure file deletion, privacy cleaner, startup manager, and a one-click maintenance module. These help ensure malware doesn’t exploit leftover files, startup entries, or privacy traces. For example, running the privacy cleaner in Glary Utilities removes browser histories and leftover files that could be exploited by malware.
Real-World Example: Layering Protection
Imagine you download an email attachment that turns out to be malicious. With Windows Security, the threat is detected instantly. If the malware tries to edit your personal files, Controlled Folder Access blocks it. Even if the attacker somehow bypasses your defenses, BitLocker ensures your files remain encrypted. For suspicious files, you can use Windows Sandbox to check their behavior without risk.
Final Thoughts
By leveraging these 10 built-in Windows features, you can create a strong defense against malware. Beginners should start with the basics like Windows Security and automatic updates, while advanced users can explore encryption, sandboxing, and deeper configuration. Enhancing your setup with Glary Utilities adds another valuable layer for privacy and system cleanliness. Stay proactive—regularly review and update your security settings to keep your Windows PC safe in a constantly evolving threat landscape.