Windows is the most widely-used PC operating system in the world, making it a major target for cybercriminals and data harvesters. While Microsoft has made significant improvements to Windows’ built-in security and privacy features, many users are unaware of how to use these tools effectively. In this guide, you’ll discover how Windows’ own utilities, along with recommended third-party tools like Glary Utilities, can help you protect your information and keep your PC secure—whether you’re a complete beginner or an advanced power user.
Why Are Security and Privacy Important on Windows?
Your Windows PC contains a vast amount of sensitive data: personal documents, login credentials, browsing history, and even private communications. If left unprotected, this information can be stolen by hackers, misused by unwanted software, or exposed by poor privacy controls. Security tools defend against malware, ransomware, and unauthorized access, while privacy features help keep your data out of the wrong hands and limit tracking.
Beginner Section: Getting Started with Built-in Windows Security Tools
What Are the Key Security Tools in Windows?
Most modern Windows PCs come with a suite of built-in security features:
Windows Security (formerly Windows Defender): Provides antivirus, firewall, and account protection.
Windows Firewall: Controls incoming and outgoing network traffic.
Windows Update: Delivers important security patches and updates.
User Account Control (UAC): Helps prevent unauthorized changes to your system.
How Do You Use Windows Security For Basic Protection?
1. Check Virus & Threat Protection
– Open the Start menu, type ‘Windows Security’, and open the app.
– Click ‘Virus & Threat Protection’.
– Click ‘Quick scan’ to check for malware.
– Ensure ‘Real-time protection’ is On.
2. Turn On the Firewall
– In Windows Security, go to ‘Firewall & network protection’.
– Make sure all network profiles (Domain, Private, Public) show “Firewall is on”.
3. Keep Windows Updated
– Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
– Click ‘Check for updates’ and install any available patches.
How Can You Improve Privacy Settings Easily?
1. Adjust Privacy Options
– Go to Settings > Privacy.
– Review options in sections like ‘General’, ‘Location’, ‘Camera’, and ‘Microphone’.
– Toggle off permissions you don’t need (like sending diagnostic data).
2. Manage App Permissions
– Still in the Privacy menu, review ‘App permissions’ categories.
– Decide which apps can access features like your camera, microphone, and contacts.
Real-World Example: Disabling Location Tracking
If you don’t want Windows or apps tracking your location:
– Go to Settings > Privacy > Location.
– Turn off ‘Location service’.
Intermediate & Advanced Section: Strengthening Security and Deepening Privacy
How Can Advanced Users Enhance Their Security Posture?
1. Configure Controlled Folder Access
– Go to Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Manage ransomware protection.
– Turn on ‘Controlled folder access’ to protect files from unauthorized changes.
2. Use BitLocker Drive Encryption (Windows Pro/Enterprise)
– Open Control Panel > System and Security > BitLocker Drive Encryption.
– Turn on BitLocker for your main drive to encrypt your files.
3. Create Stronger Windows Account Protections
– Set up Windows Hello (biometric or PIN login) for added security.
– Use a Microsoft Account for better password recovery and syncing features.
How to Tweak Privacy Beyond the Basics
1. Limit Diagnostic Data
– Go to Settings > Privacy > Diagnostics & feedback.
– Select ‘Required diagnostic data’ instead of ‘Optional’.
2. Clear Activity History
– Still in Privacy settings, find ‘Activity history’.
– Uncheck ‘Send my activity history to Microsoft’ and clear existing history.
3. Harden Browser Privacy
– Use privacy-focused browsers or enable tracking prevention features in Edge, Chrome, or Firefox.
– Regularly clear your browser cache and cookies.
How Can Glary Utilities Help with Security and Privacy?
Glary Utilities is a comprehensive optimization suite that supplements Windows’ built-in tools with additional privacy and security features. Here’s how it can make the process easier, especially for users who want simple, automated solutions:
1. Privacy Cleaner
– Glary Utilities’ Privacy Cleaner scans and removes traces of your online and offline activity, such as browser history, cookies, and recently used files.
– Step-by-step: Open Glary Utilities > Advanced Tools > Privacy & Security > Tracks Eraser. Choose what to remove and click ‘Erase Now’.
2. Secure File Deletion
– The File Shredder feature permanently erases files, making them unrecoverable by data recovery tools.
– Step-by-step: In Glary Utilities, go to Advanced Tools > Privacy & Security > File Shredder. Add files or folders, then click ‘Shred’.
3. Startup Manager and Software Update
– Remove potentially unwanted programs or outdated software that could have security holes.
– Step-by-step: Use ‘Startup Manager’ in Glary Utilities to review and disable suspicious startup entries, and ‘Software Update’ to patch old applications.
Advanced Example: Automating Privacy Maintenance
Schedule Glary Utilities’ 1-Click Maintenance to run regularly. This not only cleans up privacy traces, but also optimizes and repairs registry issues that could be exploited by malware.
To set up a schedule:
– Open Glary Utilities, click on ‘Menu’ > ‘Settings’ > ‘AutoCare’.
– Choose frequency and select privacy-cleaning options.
Tips For All Users: Best Practices for Security and Privacy on Windows
– Use strong, unique passwords for your Windows account and online services.
– Regularly backup important files to an external drive or cloud service.
– Be wary of suspicious links or downloads—only install software from reputable sources.
– Consider using two-factor authentication for sensitive accounts.
Conclusion
Windows offers a solid foundation of security and privacy tools, but their effectiveness depends on how you use them. Beginners can start with built-in tools like Windows Security and privacy settings, while advanced users can layer on features like BitLocker and Controlled Folder Access for greater protection. Supplementing these with a utility like Glary Utilities provides easy-to-use, comprehensive maintenance and privacy cleaning—helping ensure your PC stays secure and your data remains private.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to fine-tune your system, regularly reviewing and updating your privacy and security settings is the best defense against today’s digital threats.