Windows user accounts are a vital part of your PC’s security. They control who can access your data, install programs, and make changes to your system. If user accounts aren’t set up or maintained properly, your privacy and security can be at risk. This guide explains ten proven methods to troubleshoot and improve Windows user account security. Each tip includes beginner-friendly steps, with advanced options for those more comfortable with Windows.
Why Is User Account Security Important in Windows?
Windows user accounts serve as the gateway to your computer. If they’re not secure, cybercriminals or unauthorized users can access your files, change system settings, or install malicious software. Keeping your account secure is essential, whether you’re at home, work, or using a shared device.
1. Check Account Types and Permissions
Beginner Steps:
– Open the Start menu and click on “Settings.”
– Go to “Accounts” > “Family & other users.”
– Review the list of users. Make sure only trusted people have Administrator access.
– Change any users who do not need full control to “Standard User.”
Advanced Steps:
– Open “Computer Management” (search for it in the Start menu).
– Navigate to “Local Users and Groups” > “Users.”
– Right-click a user, select “Properties,” and review group memberships.
2. Set Strong Passwords and Enable Password Policies
Beginner Steps:
– Go to “Settings” > “Accounts” > “Sign-in options.”
– Click “Password” and follow prompts to create a strong password. Use a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols.
Advanced Steps:
– Open the “Local Security Policy” tool (search for it).
– Go to “Account Policies” > “Password Policy.”
– Enforce password complexity and set minimum length and expiration.
3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
– If you use a Microsoft account, sign in at account.microsoft.com.
– Go to “Security” > “Additional security options.”
– Turn on “Two-step verification” and follow the instructions to add your phone or authentication app.
4. Remove Unused or Unknown Accounts
Beginner Steps:
– Open “Settings” > “Accounts” > “Family & other users.”
– Click on any unfamiliar or unused accounts and select “Remove.”
Advanced Steps:
– Use “Computer Management” to view all user accounts, as described above.
– Disable or delete unnecessary accounts to reduce attack surface.
5. Review and Manage Account Permissions
Beginner Steps:
– Right-click a folder or file, select “Properties,” and go to the “Security” tab.
– Check which users have access and adjust permissions as needed.
Advanced Steps:
– Use the “Advanced” button in the Security tab to view or change inherited permissions.
– Use command-line tools like `icacls` for batch permission management.
6. Enable Account Lockout Policies
Advanced Tip:
– Open “Local Security Policy.”
– Under “Account Policies” > “Account Lockout Policy,” set thresholds for invalid logins.
– This prevents brute-force attacks by locking accounts after too many failed attempts.
7. Use Glary Utilities for Security Maintenance
Beginner & Advanced:
– Download and install Glary Utilities from the official website.
– Launch the program and run the “1-Click Maintenance” to clean up privacy traces and temporary files.
– Use the “Tracks Eraser” feature to remove traces of user activity, preventing others from seeing what you’ve done.
– Use the “Startup Manager” to review which programs launch with each user account and disable unnecessary items for better security.
– The “File Shredder” helps securely delete sensitive files that should not be recovered.
8. Keep Windows and Software Updated
Beginner Steps:
– Go to “Settings” > “Update & Security” > “Windows Update.”
– Click “Check for updates” and install any available updates.
Advanced Steps:
– Set up automatic updates for Windows and key software.
– Review update history to ensure security patches are applied.
9. Audit Login Activity
Beginner Steps:
– Check recent sign-ins for your Microsoft account at account.microsoft.com under “Recent activity.”
Advanced Steps:
– Open “Event Viewer” (search for it).
– Go to “Windows Logs” > “Security.”
– Look for event IDs related to logins (e.g., 4624 for successful logon, 4625 for failed).
10. Disable the Built-In Administrator Account
Advanced Tip:
– Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
– Type `net user administrator /active:no` and press Enter.
– This deactivates the default Administrator account, which can be a target for attacks.
Final Recommendations for Ongoing Security
– Regularly review user accounts and permissions, especially after letting others use your device.
– Use Glary Utilities for routine cleanup and privacy maintenance. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy for beginners, while advanced features give power users deeper control.
– Backup important data regularly, and store backups securely.
– Educate all users of your PC about safe password practices and the importance of account security.
By following these ten methods, you’ll significantly improve your Windows user account security. Whether you’re just starting or already familiar with Windows administration, these steps help protect your privacy and keep your data safe from unwanted access.