Windows PCs hold a wealth of personal data and sensitive information, making strong security and privacy practices essential. Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned user, taking the right steps can protect you from threats like malware, hacking, and data leaks. This guide covers both foundational and advanced techniques, with practical examples and step-by-step instructions to help all users manage security and privacy on Windows.
What Are the Basics of Security and Privacy on Windows? (For Beginners)
Understanding User Accounts and Passwords
Use a local account or a Microsoft account with a strong password. Avoid using simple or easily guessable passwords. Enable Windows Hello if your device supports it for extra protection.
Enabling Windows Defender
Windows Defender (Windows Security) is built into Windows and offers real-time protection against malware and viruses. Make sure it’s turned on:
1. Go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security.
2. Click on “Virus & threat protection”.
3. Ensure the status says “No action needed”.
Keeping Windows Updated
Updates fix vulnerabilities that attackers can exploit. Set Windows to update automatically:
1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
2. Click on “Check for updates”.
3. Set active hours so updates don’t interrupt your work.
Using a Standard User Account
For daily tasks, use a standard user account instead of an administrator account. This limits the risk of malware making system changes.
How Can Beginners Protect Their Privacy?
Adjusting Privacy Settings
Windows collects diagnostic and usage data. To limit this:
1. Open Settings > Privacy.
2. Go through each section (e.g., Microphone, Camera, Location) to control which apps have access.
3. Turn off “Let apps use advertising ID” under General.
Managing App Permissions
1. In Settings > Privacy > App permissions, review access for apps to sensitive features (camera, microphone, contacts, etc.).
2. Disable access for apps you don’t trust or use.
Clearing Activity History
1. Go to Settings > Privacy > Activity history.
2. Uncheck “Let Windows collect my activities from this PC”.
3. Click “Clear” to remove stored activity data.
Why Use Tools Like Glary Utilities For Basic Privacy?
Glary Utilities offers privacy cleaning and system optimization features for beginners. For example, its “Tracks Eraser” tool can remove browsing history, cookies, and temporary files with a single click—reducing traces of your activity and improving PC performance.
How Do You Move Beyond the Basics? (For Advanced Users)
Configuring BitLocker Drive Encryption
BitLocker encrypts your entire drive, preventing unauthorized access even if your device is stolen.
1. Search for “Manage BitLocker” from the Start menu.
2. Select “Turn on BitLocker” and follow the prompts.
3. Save your recovery key in a secure place.
Using Advanced Firewall Rules
The built-in Windows Firewall can be customized:
1. Open Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall > Advanced settings.
2. Here, you can create inbound/outbound rules for specific programs or ports.
3. For example, block an app from accessing the internet by creating a new outbound rule, selecting the app, and choosing “Block the connection”.
Enabling Controlled Folder Access
This protects important folders from ransomware:
1. Go to Windows Security > Virus & threat protection.
2. Click “Manage ransomware protection”.
3. Enable “Controlled folder access” and add folders to protect.
Managing Third-Party Services and Startup Programs
Many apps start automatically and may send data to the cloud. To control this:
1. Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc), go to the Startup tab.
2. Right-click and disable unnecessary apps.
For deeper cleanup, Glary Utilities‘ “Startup Manager” gives you an easy overview and lets you disable or delay startup items, reducing background data leaks and improving boot times.
Using a VPN for Secure Browsing
A VPN encrypts your internet traffic and hides your IP address. If you use public Wi-Fi or want to protect browsing habits from being tracked, consider a reputable VPN service.
How Can Glary Utilities Help Advanced Users with Privacy and Security?
Along with basic privacy cleaning, Glary Utilities offers:
– File Shredder: Permanently deletes sensitive files, making recovery impossible.
– Disk Cleaner: Removes leftover data and system traces.
– Privacy Cleaner: Erases browser, app, and Windows history.
– File Encryption: Securely encrypt files or folders for additional protection.
For example, after working with confidential documents, use Glary Utilities’ “File Shredder” to delete them securely, preventing recovery by forensic tools.
What Are Some Real-World Examples of Good Security Practices?
Regularly backup data to a secure external drive or cloud service. Enable two-factor authentication on critical accounts. Don’t ignore system prompts for updates. Always verify the legitimacy of emails or downloads before opening them.
In summary, whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your privacy and security to the next level, Windows offers built-in tools and flexibility. Supplementing these with third-party solutions like Glary Utilities can give you an extra edge—making privacy and security management easier, more thorough, and more effective.