Protecting your Windows PC against malware threats is crucial for maintaining privacy and security. Windows offers a range of built-in features designed to help users of all experience levels guard against malicious software and cyber threats. This guide explores ten essential Windows features you should know, with step-by-step advice for both beginners and more advanced users. Real-world examples and actionable tips will help you strengthen your PC’s defenses, ensuring your data remains secure.
For Beginners: Essential Malware Protection Features
1. Windows Security (Windows Defender)
Windows Security, formerly known as Windows Defender, is your first line of defense against malware. It provides real-time protection, scanning files and downloads for malicious content.
How to Use:
– Open Windows Security from the Start Menu.
– Click on “Virus & threat protection.”
– Ensure “Real-time protection” is turned on.
– Run a Quick or Full Scan weekly.
Tip: Set up automatic updates for virus definitions to stay protected against new threats.
2. Firewall & Network Protection
Windows comes with a built-in firewall that helps block unauthorized access to your PC and alerts you about suspicious activity.
How to Use:
– Go to Windows Security > Firewall & network protection.
– Check that your firewall is ON for all network types (Domain, Private, Public).
Example: If you’re using public Wi-Fi, the firewall helps block incoming threats from the same network.
3. Controlled Folder Access
This feature protects your important files from ransomware by only allowing trusted applications to make changes to protected folders.
How to Use:
– In Windows Security, go to “Virus & threat protection.”
– Click “Manage ransomware protection.”
– Turn on “Controlled folder access.”
– Add folders you want to protect and trusted applications.
4. SmartScreen Filter
SmartScreen helps block potentially malicious websites and downloads in Microsoft Edge and Windows apps.
How to Use:
– In Windows Security, select “App & browser control.”
– Turn on “Check apps and files” and all SmartScreen options.
Example: When downloading a file, SmartScreen will warn you if it’s potentially dangerous.
5. Automatic Updates
Keeping Windows and its components updated helps patch security vulnerabilities that malware might exploit.
How to Use:
– Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
– Click “Check for updates” and enable automatic updates.
Tip: Install updates as soon as possible to minimize risks.
For Advanced Users: Enhanced Malware Protection Tools
6. App & Browser Control – Exploit Protection
Exploit protection helps defend your system against vulnerabilities in apps and Windows components.
How to Use:
– Go to Windows Security > App & browser control > Exploit protection settings.
– Review and adjust system and program settings as necessary.
Example: Enable “Force randomization for images (Mandatory ASLR)” to make it harder for malware to exploit memory vulnerabilities.
7. User Account Control (UAC)
UAC prevents unauthorized changes by prompting you when a program tries to run with administrator privileges.
How to Use:
– Search for “UAC” in the Start Menu.
– Move the slider to the recommended or higher setting.
Tip: Keep UAC enabled to avoid silent installations of malware.
8. Device Security (Core Isolation & Secure Boot)
Core Isolation and Secure Boot provide hardware-level protection against malware.
How to Use:
– In Windows Security, go to Device Security.
– Turn on “Core isolation” (Memory integrity).
– Check that “Secure Boot” is enabled in your BIOS/UEFI.
Warning: Some features may require compatible hardware.
9. BitLocker Drive Encryption
BitLocker encrypts your drives, making it difficult for attackers to access your data if your device is lost or stolen.
How to Use:
– Search for “BitLocker” in the Start Menu.
– Turn on BitLocker for your drives and set a strong password.
Tip: Save your BitLocker recovery key in a safe place.
10. Windows Defender Offline Scan
Some malware can hide from regular antivirus scans. Windows Defender Offline Scan restarts your PC and scans for deeply embedded threats before Windows loads.
How to Use:
– Open Windows Security > Virus & threat protection.
– Under “Current threats,” select “Scan options.”
– Choose “Windows Defender Offline scan” and click “Scan now.”
Bonus: Enhance Protection with Glary Utilities
While Windows includes many built-in tools, adding a comprehensive maintenance utility like Glary Utilities helps further reinforce your privacy and security. Glary Utilities offers features such as disk cleanup, registry repair, privacy protection tools, and startup management. These tools help remove leftover malware traces, clean up privacy logs, and optimize your system for smooth operation.
Example: Use Glary Utilities’ “Privacy Cleaner” to securely delete browsing history and cookies, minimizing the risk of sensitive data exposure. Its “Startup Manager” can also help you identify and disable suspicious programs that may run at startup, an area often targeted by malware.
Summary
For Beginners:
– Regularly use Windows Security, Firewall, Controlled Folder Access, SmartScreen, and automatic updates.
For Advanced Users:
– Explore Exploit Protection, UAC, Device Security, BitLocker, and offline scanning features.
Every user should consider supplementing built-in protections with utilities like Glary Utilities for deeper cleaning and enhanced privacy. By understanding and utilizing these Windows features, you can create a strong malware protection strategy tailored to your needs. Stay vigilant, keep your system updated, and use all the tools at your disposal to keep your Windows PC safe.