Browsing the web on Windows 10 and 11 can be safe and private, but only if you use the right techniques and tools. Cyber threats, trackers, and data collection risks are always present, but with careful setup and good browsing habits, you can significantly reduce these risks. This step-by-step guide will walk Windows users through core secure browsing methods, from basic settings to advanced tools and habits. Each section is labeled for beginners or advanced users, so you can easily find the right advice for your skill level.
Why Is Secure Browsing Necessary on Windows?
Windows is the most popular desktop operating system, making it a frequent target for cybercriminals. While Windows 10 and 11 include important security features, they are not foolproof. Secure browsing helps prevent malware infections, phishing, unwanted data collection, and privacy breaches.
Beginner: How to Set Up Secure Browsing on Windows
1. Use a Secure and Updated Web Browser
Choose browsers with strong security records, such as Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, or Google Chrome.
Always keep your browser up to date. In Edge, click the three-dot menu > Help & feedback > About Microsoft Edge to check for updates.
Turn on security features offered by your browser. For example, in Edge, go to Settings > Privacy, search, and services and set Tracking prevention to Strict.
2. Activate Windows Security Features
Open Windows Security from the Start menu. Go to Virus & threat protection and ensure everything is up-to-date and enabled.
Enable SmartScreen in Windows Security: App & browser control > Reputation-based protection settings > Turn on all SmartScreen filters to block phishing and malicious sites.
3. Manage Browser Privacy Settings
In your browser settings, choose not to save passwords, or use a trusted password manager instead.
Clear browsing data regularly. In Edge: Settings > Privacy, search, and services > Clear browsing data > Choose what to clear.
4. Avoid Suspicious Links and Downloads
Never click on unknown links or download files from untrusted sources.
If you receive a suspicious email or pop-up, close it and do not interact.
5. Use a Comprehensive Utility for Privacy Maintenance
Glary Utilities offers a simple interface for cleaning browser histories, cookies, and temporary files across all major browsers. Open Glary Utilities, select the 1-Click Maintenance module, and ensure Internet History and Temporary Files options are checked before running the scan. This helps remove traces of your browsing activities and protects your privacy.
Advanced: Enhanced Secure Browsing for Experienced Users
1. Use Private Browsing Modes and Secure Search Engines
Use InPrivate (Edge), Incognito (Chrome), or Private (Firefox) modes to prevent browser history and trackers.
Switch your search engine to privacy-focused options like DuckDuckGo or Startpage in your browser settings.
2. Harden Browser Security
Install browser add-ons such as uBlock Origin (ad blocker), HTTPS Everywhere (forces encrypted connections), and Privacy Badger (blocks trackers).
Disable unnecessary browser extensions, which can be vectors for malware or trackers.
For deeper security, consider using the browser’s site permission controls to block camera, microphone, location, and notifications by default.
3. Configure DNS Over HTTPS (DoH)
Enable DoH to encrypt your DNS queries:
In Edge: Go to Settings > Privacy, search, and services > Security > Use secure DNS to specify a service provider such as Cloudflare or Google.
This prevents ISPs or attackers from snooping on which websites you visit.
4. Isolate Browsing Profiles
Create separate user profiles in your browser for different types of activities (work, personal, banking). This limits the spread of potential threats and cross-site tracking.
Right-click your browser shortcut, select Profiles, and add new profiles as needed.
5. Use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, hiding your real IP address.
For best results, select VPNs with a no-log policy and independent security audits. Windows 10 and 11 allow you to add VPN connections via Settings > Network & Internet > VPN.
6. Clean Up with Glary Utilities Advanced Features
For power users, Glary Utilities also offers the Tracks Eraser tool. Open Glary Utilities, go to Advanced Tools > Privacy & Security > Tracks Eraser. Select browsers and Windows traces you want to remove, then run the tool. This helps eliminate deep traces left by web browsing, cookies, and cache files stored in hidden locations.
Practical Example: Secure Online Banking Session
1. Open a new private browsing window.
2. Use a dedicated browser profile for banking tasks.
3. Ensure VPN is turned on before logging in.
4. After finishing, clear browser data manually (or use Glary Utilities), close the browser, and disconnect the VPN.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do secure browsers like Brave or Tor help?
A: Yes, Brave and Tor offer enhanced privacy features. Tor routes your traffic through multiple nodes for anonymity, while Brave blocks many trackers and ads by default. Consider these for highly private browsing sessions.
Q: Should I use built-in Windows parental controls or third-party tools?
A: Built-in controls are a good starting point for families, but for more granular filtering, third-party tools may offer advanced options.
Final Tips for All Users
Always keep Windows, your browser, and all extensions up to date.
Don’t reuse passwords; use a password manager.
Regularly run Glary Utilities to erase browsing traces and maintain a clean, private system environment.
By adopting these secure browsing techniques and using tools like Glary Utilities for privacy maintenance, Windows 10 and 11 users can enjoy a much safer and more private online experience. Both beginners and advanced users will benefit from proactive habits and smart use of built-in and third-party privacy features.