Windows security and privacy are critical to keeping your personal and professional data safe. Many users unintentionally weaken their system’s defenses by making small but impactful mistakes. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, understanding these common pitfalls—and knowing how to fix them—can make all the difference in protecting your PC from threats.
Below, we explore these issues from both a basic and advanced perspective, offering actionable steps and real-world examples to keep your data secure.
Beginner-Level: Common Mistakes and Practical Fixes
Neglecting Windows Updates
One of the most common mistakes is ignoring Windows updates. Many users postpone updates due to inconvenience, but outdated systems are prime targets for exploits. Windows updates often include critical security patches that close vulnerabilities.
Practical fix: Enable automatic updates by going to Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options and ensuring updates install automatically. Set active hours so updates happen outside your work time.
Using Weak or Reused Passwords
Many people use simple passwords or reuse them across multiple accounts, making it easy for hackers to breach their data.
Practical fix: Use Windows Hello for PIN or biometric sign-in, and enable password complexity requirements. For accounts, use strong unique passwords and a password manager.
Turning Off Windows Security Notifications
Some users disable Windows Defender notifications because they find them annoying, unknowingly removing a critical layer of awareness.
Practical fix: Keep Windows Security notifications active in Settings > Privacy & security > Windows Security > Notifications.
Failing to Manage App Permissions
Granting excessive permissions to apps can lead to privacy leaks.
Practical fix: Review app permissions in Settings > Privacy & security > App permissions. Turn off access to location, microphone, or camera for unused apps.
Intermediate-Level: Strengthening Privacy and Security
Overlooking Firewall Rules
The Windows Firewall is often left at default settings without review, potentially allowing more access than necessary.
Practical fix: Open Windows Security > Firewall & network protection > Advanced settings. Review inbound and outbound rules, disabling unnecessary allowances.
Not Configuring BitLocker Drive Encryption
Many users never set up BitLocker, which leaves data vulnerable if the device is lost or stolen.
Practical fix: Enable BitLocker for your system drive via Control Panel > System and Security > BitLocker Drive Encryption. Save recovery keys securely offline.
Keeping Too Many Unnecessary Startup Programs
Startup apps can slow boot times and provide a launch point for malware.
Practical fix: Use Task Manager > Startup tab to disable unnecessary programs. For a deeper cleanup, use Glary Utilities’ Startup Manager to identify and remove risky entries safely.
Advanced-Level: Proactive and Expert Measures
Failing to Use Controlled Folder Access
Ransomware attacks can encrypt critical files if Controlled Folder Access is not enabled.
Practical fix: Enable it under Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Manage ransomware protection. Add important folders to the protected list.
Not Monitoring Privacy with System-Wide Tools
Advanced users sometimes rely solely on manual settings, missing hidden telemetry or background tracking.
Practical fix: Use Glary Utilities’ Tracks Eraser to remove browsing history, cookies, and recent document traces. Combine this with Windows’ built-in Diagnostic Data Viewer to understand what data is being sent to Microsoft.
Ignoring Scheduled System Maintenance
Without routine checks, vulnerabilities can go unnoticed.
Practical fix: Set a monthly maintenance schedule using Glary Utilities’ 1-Click Maintenance tool, which cleans junk files, fixes registry errors, and optimizes privacy settings in one pass.
Allowing Administrative Accounts for Daily Use
Working from an admin account increases the risk of unauthorized changes.
Practical fix: Create a standard user account for everyday activities and reserve admin access for installations or system changes.
Conclusion
Windows offers robust tools for privacy and security, but the real challenge lies in how users manage them. From keeping software updated to enabling advanced ransomware protection, avoiding these common mistakes can significantly strengthen your defenses. Beginners benefit from enabling built-in protections and managing permissions, while advanced users can layer additional controls and monitoring for maximum security. Tools like Glary Utilities can complement Windows’ features, offering deeper privacy cleaning, startup management, and scheduled maintenance that help ensure your system stays secure and optimized.