Windows 10 places a strong emphasis on security and privacy, but many of its features depend on how well they are configured by the user. Enhancing system protection is not just about installing antivirus software—it requires fine-tuning privacy settings, strengthening account protections, and regularly maintaining the system to reduce vulnerabilities. This guide covers step-by-step methods to improve Windows 10 privacy and security for both beginners and advanced users.
Beginner Level: Essential Privacy and Security Settings
1. Enable Windows Update
Keeping Windows updated ensures the latest patches and fixes are applied.
– Go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
– Click “Check for updates” and make sure updates are installed automatically.
2. Use a Strong Login Method
Password security is critical. Windows 10 also offers PIN, picture password, and biometric login options for added convenience and safety.
– Open Start > Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
– Choose Windows Hello PIN or Fingerprint (if hardware supports it).
– Set up a PIN that is different from your banking or email credentials.
3. Manage Privacy Settings
Many users don’t realize Windows 10 collects diagnostic data by default. Adjusting these options helps reduce the amount of personal data shared.
– Go to Start > Settings > Privacy.
– Review categories such as Camera, Microphone, and Location.
– Toggle off permissions for apps that do not need access.
4. Enable Microsoft Defender Antivirus
Windows 10 comes with built-in real-time protection.
– Open Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security.
– Select “Virus & threat protection.”
– Make sure real-time protection is turned on.
Intermediate Level: Strengthening Security and Managing Data Sharing
1. Configure Controlled Folder Access
This feature prevents unauthorized applications from modifying protected files, reducing the risk of ransomware attacks.
– Open Windows Security from the taskbar.
– Select “Virus & threat protection” > “Ransomware protection.”
– Turn on Controlled folder access and add folders you want to protect.
2. Limit Background Apps
Apps running in the background can collect data and consume resources.
– Go to Start > Settings > Privacy > Background apps.
– Toggle off unnecessary apps to limit background activity.
3. Adjust Diagnostic Data Settings
Windows collects diagnostic data to improve system performance, but advanced users may prefer to minimize this.
– Open Start > Settings > Privacy > Diagnostics & feedback.
– Select “Basic” to limit the amount of data sent to Microsoft.
4. Use Glary Utilities for Privacy Cleanup
Temporary files, browser caches, and history logs can reveal personal activity. Glary Utilities provides a one-click solution to remove these traces.
– Download and install Glary Utilities.
– Open the program and select “1-Click Maintenance.”
– Check options such as “Tracks Eraser” and “Temporary Files Cleaner.”
– Click “Scan for Issues” and then “Repair Problems” to clear sensitive data.
Advanced Level: Deep System Security Enhancements
1. Configure BitLocker Drive Encryption
For users with Windows 10 Pro or Enterprise, full-disk encryption ensures that even if the device is stolen, data remains inaccessible.
– Open Control Panel > System and Security > BitLocker Drive Encryption.
– Select the drive and click “Turn on BitLocker.”
– Save the recovery key securely offline.
2. Manage Local Group Policy for Privacy
Advanced users can fine-tune privacy controls using Group Policy Editor.
– Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.
– Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Data Collection and Preview Builds.
– Set “Allow Telemetry” to “Enabled” and choose “0 – Security” for minimal data sharing.
3. Harden Firewall Rules
By default, Windows Firewall allows common applications to communicate freely. Tightening these rules reduces exposure.
– Open Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.
– Click “Advanced settings.”
– Create inbound rules to restrict specific applications that do not require internet access.
4. Automate Privacy and Security Maintenance with Glary Utilities
Beyond one-time cleanups, Glary Utilities allows scheduled optimization.
– Open Glary Utilities and navigate to “Advanced Tools.”
– Select “Privacy & Security” and configure scheduled tasks for cleaning browser traces, registry issues, and temporary files.
– Use the “File Shredder” tool for permanent deletion of sensitive documents.
Real-World Example: Enhancing Privacy on a Shared PC
Consider a family computer used by multiple members. Without proper cleanup, activities such as browsing history, login sessions, and temporary files remain accessible. Glary Utilities can erase browsing history and autofill data after each use. Combined with Controlled Folder Access, children’s schoolwork and personal files remain secure from accidental modification or malware.
Conclusion
Improving security and privacy in Windows 10 requires a layered approach. Beginners can make significant improvements with built-in settings like Windows Defender and privacy controls. Intermediate users can strengthen defenses with Controlled Folder Access and diagnostic data adjustments. Advanced users can go even further with BitLocker, firewall hardening, and Group Policy adjustments. Consistent maintenance with tools like Glary Utilities ensures that sensitive traces are regularly removed, providing a cleaner and more secure Windows 10 environment.