Browsing the internet on Windows can expose you to privacy risks, malware, and unwanted data tracking. As an intermediate Windows user, you can take charge of your secure browsing practices with a combination of browser settings, system configurations, and the use of comprehensive tools like Glary Utilities. This guide walks you through the practical steps to enhance your online privacy and security on Windows.
Why Focus on Secure Browsing in Windows?
Windows is the world’s most popular desktop operating system, making it a prime target for cybercriminals and data trackers. Secure browsing techniques protect your sensitive information, prevent malware infections, and minimize the digital footprint you leave behind.
How Can You Harden Your Web Browser Settings?
Start by examining and adjusting your browser’s privacy and security settings. Here’s how to do it in Microsoft Edge and Google Chrome, the two most common browsers on Windows.
Microsoft Edge:
1. Open Edge and click the three-dot menu (top right).
2. Go to Settings > Privacy, search, and services.
3. Under Tracking prevention, choose Strict for maximum privacy.
4. Turn on Block third-party cookies.
5. Scroll down to Security and enable Microsoft Defender SmartScreen.
6. Disable “Allow sites to check if you have payment methods saved.”
Google Chrome:
1. Open Chrome and click the three-dot menu.
2. Select Settings > Privacy and security.
3. Under Cookies and other site data, choose Block third-party cookies.
4. Enable Safe Browsing (Enhanced protection) for extra malware protection.
5. Turn off “Preload pages for faster browsing and searching” to minimize cookie prefetching.
What Are the Benefits of Using Private Browsing or InPrivate Mode?
Private browsing modes (Ctrl+Shift+N in Chrome/Edge) prevent browsers from storing your history, cookies, and form data during the session. Use these modes when accessing sensitive sites, making online purchases, or using shared computers. Remember, private mode does not make you anonymous to your internet provider or the websites you visit.
How Can You Use Glary Utilities to Clean and Secure Browsing Data?
Glary Utilities offers a powerful, one-click solution to clear internet traces and browser data, protecting your privacy beyond what browsers can do alone.
Step-by-Step: Cleaning Browsing Data with Glary Utilities
1. Download and install Glary Utilities from the official website.
2. Launch Glary Utilities and go to the 1-Click Maintenance tab.
3. Ensure “Tracks Eraser” is checked—this cleans browser history, cookies, cache, and more for all major browsers.
4. Click Scan for Issues, then Review Results.
5. Click Repair Problems to instantly erase all traces of your browsing activity from the system.
Real-world example: After banking online, running Glary Utilities’ Tracks Eraser ensures that login data and browsing traces are not left behind for potential attackers or other users of your PC.
Should You Use Browser Extensions for Security?
Yes, but choose wisely. Install only essential, well-reviewed extensions. Look for these:
– AdBlock Plus or uBlock Origin (blocks ads and trackers)
– HTTPS Everywhere (forces secure connections)
– Privacy Badger (blocks invisible trackers)
Regularly review and remove unnecessary or suspicious extensions that could impact your privacy.
How Do You Keep Windows and Browsers Updated for Security?
Cybercriminals often exploit outdated software. To minimize risk:
1. Enable automatic Windows Updates:
Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > Advanced options, and ensure updates are set to install automatically.
2. Update browsers regularly:
Both Edge and Chrome update automatically, but check manually by visiting Settings > About each browser.
3. Use Glary Utilities’ Software Update feature to scan for outdated programs and apply recommended updates.
How Can You Avoid Phishing and Malicious Websites?
Be cautious with links in emails, texts, or unfamiliar websites. Look for:
– Misspelled URLs
– Unusual domain names (like .xyz or .top instead of .com)
– Requests for personal information
Browser security features and extensions help, but always verify before clicking.
What About Using a VPN for Added Privacy?
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts your internet traffic, making it harder for your ISP or others to monitor your activity. Consider reputable VPN services, especially when using public Wi-Fi.
How Do You Manage Saved Passwords Securely?
Avoid letting browsers save passwords unless you use password managers with strong encryption. Tools like LastPass or Bitwarden are recommended. Glary Utilities’ Privacy & Security module can help by cleaning out saved form data and passwords if you want to start fresh.
Summary
Combining secure browser settings, careful extension management, regular OS and browser updates, and privacy tools such as Glary Utilities gives you robust protection for your Windows browsing experience. By following these steps and making safe browsing a routine, you reduce your exposure to privacy risks and enjoy a more secure online life.