Staying safe on your Windows computer isn’t just for experts. With the right steps, anyone—even beginners—can protect personal information and keep their PC secure. This guide breaks down the essential privacy and security settings you should check, tweak, and maintain in Windows, all explained in plain English.
Why Does Security Matter on Windows?
Your computer stores personal documents, passwords, photos, and more. Malware (malicious software), hackers, or even careless use can put your information at risk. By optimizing your security settings, you reduce the chance of problems, avoid annoying slowdowns, and keep your files private.
Where Do You Find Windows Security Settings?
Most critical security options live in the Windows Settings app. To access them:
1. Click the Start button (Windows logo).
2. Choose Settings (the gear icon).
3. Select “Privacy & security” from the sidebar.
Let’s go step-by-step through the most important areas.
How to Set Up Windows Security Basics
Turn on Windows Security
Windows comes with built-in security tools. Make sure they’re active:
1. In Settings, go to “Privacy & security.”
2. Click “Windows Security.”
3. Choose “Open Windows Security.”
Here you’ll see protection status for:
– Virus & threat protection
– Firewall & network protection
– App & browser control
If you see any warnings, follow the on-screen recommendations.
Keep Windows Updated
Updates patch security holes and bugs. To check for updates:
1. In Settings, select “Windows Update.”
2. Click “Check for updates.”
3. Install all available updates.
Set “Automatic Updates” on to make this hassle-free.
How to Control App Permissions and Privacy
Limit What Apps Can Access
Windows lets you decide which apps see your camera, microphone, location, contacts, and more.
1. In “Privacy & security,” scroll down to “App permissions.”
2. Click on “Camera,” “Microphone,” etc.
3. Turn OFF access for apps you don’t trust or don’t use.
Example: If you never use voice chat, turn off microphone access for all but essential apps.
Manage Your Activity History
Windows can keep a record of your activity, which helps sync across devices but may be unnecessary.
1. In “Privacy & security,” select “Activity history.”
2. Uncheck “Store my activity history on this device” if you don’t need it.
How to Strengthen Login and Account Protection
Use a Strong Password or PIN
A strong password keeps out intruders.
– Choose a password with a mix of upper/lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.
– Avoid common words or birthdays.
Better yet, set up Windows Hello for a PIN or even facial recognition if available:
1. In “Accounts” > “Sign-in options,” choose “PIN” or “Face Recognition” and follow the setup instructions.
Turn On Two-Factor Authentication
Add a second layer to your Microsoft account:
1. Visit https://account.microsoft.com/security
2. Choose “Advanced security options.”
3. Turn on “Two-step verification” and follow prompts.
How to Use Firewall and Network Protection
Stay Safe on Wi-Fi
– Always use password-protected networks.
– If possible, use your home Wi-Fi over public hotspots.
Check Firewall Settings
1. Open “Windows Security.”
2. Select “Firewall & network protection.”
3. Make sure all networks say “Firewall is on.”
How to Clean Up and Maintain Your Security
Why Regular Maintenance Matters
Old files, leftover software, and privacy traces can make your computer vulnerable. That’s where Glary Utilities shines.
How Can Glary Utilities Help?
Glary Utilities is a user-friendly toolkit for beginners and pros. It can:
– Scan for privacy risks (like browser history or cookies that track you)
– Clear out temporary files that may contain sensitive data
– Oversee startup programs to spot suspicious entries
– Help you securely delete files so they can’t be recovered
Step-by-Step: Using Glary Utilities for Privacy and Security
1. Download and install Glary Utilities from the official website.
2. Open Glary Utilities and select the “1-Click Maintenance” tab.
3. Check “Privacy Tracks” and “Temporary Files.”
4. Click “Scan for Issues,” then “Repair Problems.”
For deeper cleanup:
1. Go to the “Advanced Tools” tab.
2. Choose “Tracks Eraser” to clear detailed privacy traces.
3. Use “File Shredder” to permanently delete sensitive files.
Glary Utilities makes these steps simple and safe, so you don’t have to worry about accidental file loss.
What Else Can You Do?
– Never share passwords or leave your PC unattended in public.
– Be cautious when downloading software—stick to trusted sources.
– Run security scans regularly.
Final Thoughts
Even as a beginner, you can lock down your Windows PC like a pro. By updating Windows, adjusting privacy settings, securing your sign-in, and using trusted utilities like Glary Utilities for regular maintenance, you stay ahead of most threats. Take a few minutes today to review these steps—you’ll gain peace of mind and better computer performance.