Maintaining privacy and security while browsing the internet is a top concern for Windows users. Fortunately, Windows provides built-in features that make it easier to protect your information and enjoy a safer online experience. Whether you’re new to computers or consider yourself a more advanced user, there are practical steps you can take today to boost your browsing security. Below, we break down these techniques and tools, highlighting solutions for all experience levels.
Beginner’s Guide: Security Basics for Secure Browsing
What are the main risks while browsing on Windows?
Windows users face threats such as phishing, malware, unwanted tracking, and unsafe downloads. The best defense starts with understanding and using the security features already present in your system.
How does Windows Defender SmartScreen help?
SmartScreen is built into Windows and Microsoft Edge, acting as a first line of defense. When you visit a suspicious website or try to download a risky file, SmartScreen will warn you or block the action. To ensure SmartScreen is active:
1. Open Microsoft Edge.
2. Click the three dots (Settings and more) in the top right.
3. Go to Settings > Privacy, search, and services.
4. Under Security, confirm that Microsoft Defender SmartScreen is turned on.
This feature helps protect you from phishing attempts and malicious websites, even if you’re not tech-savvy.
How can you use Private Browsing Modes?
Most modern browsers, including Microsoft Edge and Google Chrome, offer private browsing modes (called InPrivate in Edge). This prevents your browsing history, cookies, and form data from being saved.
To open InPrivate mode in Edge:
1. Click the three dots (Settings and more).
2. Select “New InPrivate window.”
Use this mode when browsing on public or shared computers to keep your activity private.
What are basic privacy settings you should adjust?
Windows 10 and 11 allow you to control what information is shared with Microsoft and other software providers.
1. Open Settings (press Windows + I).
2. Click Privacy & security.
3. Review settings under Windows permissions and App permissions such as location, camera, and microphone.
4. Disable anything you don’t want to share.
This limits data collection and reduces exposure to potential privacy breaches.
Intermediate Tips: Boosting Your Browsing Security
How can you use Windows Firewall for safer browsing?
The Windows Firewall helps block unauthorized access to your computer, particularly when connected to public networks.
1. Go to Settings > Privacy & security > Windows Security.
2. Click Firewall & network protection.
3. Ensure the firewall is enabled for all network types (Domain, Private, Public).
For extra control, click “Allow an app through firewall” to manage which programs can access the internet.
Why should you keep Windows and browsers updated?
Security vulnerabilities are often exploited by hackers. Keeping your system and browsers updated ensures you have the latest security patches.
1. For Windows: Go to Settings > Windows Update and click Check for updates.
2. For browsers: Updates are often automatic, but you can manually check in the browser’s settings menu.
Advanced Techniques: For Experienced Users
How do you manage security certificates and site permissions?
Understanding how to manage certificates and specific site permissions gives you more control.
1. In Edge, go to Settings > Cookies and site permissions.
2. Review permissions for camera, microphone, notifications, and more.
3. Block or allow as needed for trusted sites only.
For certificates, open Windows Settings > Manage Certificates to review or remove any that look suspicious or are no longer needed.
Should you use advanced privacy tools?
Consider additional advanced features:
– Configure DNS over HTTPS (DoH) in Edge for encrypted DNS queries (Settings > Privacy, search, and services > Security).
– Use Windows Sandbox (available on Windows Pro and Enterprise) to open risky sites in an isolated environment.
Keeping Your System Clean and Private with Glary Utilities
Beyond Windows’ built-in tools, comprehensive system optimization programs like Glary Utilities provide added privacy protection. Glary Utilities features a Tracks Eraser, which removes browsing histories, cookies, cache, and other private data from all major browsers. This helps prevent tracking and snooping by anyone with access to your PC.
To use Glary Utilities for privacy:
1. Download and install Glary Utilities.
2. Open the application and select “Privacy & Security.”
3. Choose “Tracks Eraser.”
4. Scan and erase selected browsing data with a single click.
This is especially useful for users who want an easy, all-in-one solution for maintaining privacy across multiple browsers.
Summary
Windows offers a robust set of features for secure browsing, from SmartScreen to privacy controls and firewall settings. By understanding and using these built-in tools, users at any skill level can protect themselves from common online threats. For those seeking even greater privacy, tools like Glary Utilities make it easy to erase browsing traces and optimize your PC’s security. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced user, following these steps will help you browse with confidence and keep your personal information safe.