Why Should You Care About Windows Security and Privacy?
Every time you use your Windows computer, your personal information and data security are at risk from threats like viruses, hackers, and unwanted data collection. As a beginner Windows user, you might think security is only for experts, but simple steps and free tools can greatly improve your safety and privacy. This guide walks you through easy, practical ways to boost your system’s defenses and protect your information without spending a dime.
How Can You Secure Your Windows Account?
Start with your user account to establish a strong security foundation.
1. Set a Strong Password
Go to Start > Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options. Choose a password that’s at least 12 characters long, using a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid common words or phrases.
2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
For your Microsoft account, visit account.microsoft.com, sign in, and enable two-step verification under Security. This adds an extra layer of protection if your password is stolen.
3. Lock Your Screen Automatically
Open Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options, and set your device to require a password on wakeup. Use Windows + L whenever you leave your PC unattended.
What Free Tools Help Protect Against Viruses and Malware?
Windows comes with some built-in defenses, but you can boost your protection with these free solutions.
1. Use Windows Security (Defender)
Find it in Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security. Run a Full Scan regularly to check for threats. Make sure Real-time Protection is enabled.
2. Add a Second Opinion Scanner
Download Malwarebytes Free from malwarebytes.com. Run it once a week or if you notice anything suspicious; it often catches threats missed by others.
Are Your Personal Files and Browsing Habits Private?
Your data can be exposed if you don’t take precautions.
1. Regularly Update Windows and Software
Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, and click “Check for updates.” Set updates to automatic so security patches install as soon as they’re available.
2. Manage Privacy Settings
Go to Settings > Privacy. Review every section (such as Location, Camera, Microphone, and Diagnostics) and turn off what you don’t use or need. For example, under Diagnostics & feedback, select “Required diagnostic data” instead of “Optional.”
3. Clear Tracking and Browsing Data
Most browsers allow you to clear your browsing history, cookies, and cache. In Microsoft Edge, go to Settings > Privacy, search, and services > Clear browsing data.
How Can Glary Utilities Help Enhance Your Privacy and Security?
Glary Utilities is a free, all-in-one utility that helps clean and optimize your PC, but it also offers robust privacy and security features.
1. Download and Install Glary Utilities
Go to glarysoft.com and download the free version. Install and open the program.
2. Use the Privacy & Security Tools
Click on the “Privacy & Security” tab. Here, you can:
– Erase Tracks: Remove traces of your internet and Windows activity with one click.
– File Shredder: Permanently delete confidential files, making them unrecoverable.
– Tracks Eraser: Erase histories from browsers and various system locations.
3. Clean Up Sensitive Data Automatically
Set Glary Utilities to run scheduled cleanups. In the program, click “Scheduler,” set your preferred time, and include Tracks Eraser and Disk Cleaner in the tasks.
What Else Should Beginners Do to Stay Protected?
Following these steps will cover most of your needs, but here are some additional tips:
– Use a standard user account for daily activities, reserving the administrator account for system changes only.
– Be cautious when clicking links or downloading attachments in emails.
– Don’t install unknown software from the internet; always use trusted sources.
– Regularly back up your files to an external drive or cloud service like OneDrive.
Conclusion
Improving your Windows security and privacy doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. By following these beginner-friendly steps and using free tools like Windows Defender and Glary Utilities, you can significantly reduce your risk of data loss, unwanted tracking, and malicious attacks. Make these practices part of your regular computer routine, and you’ll keep your personal information much safer.