Browsing the web can expose your Windows 11 device to various privacy and security threats. Even experienced users can overlook some essential settings and best practices. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to securing your online activity on Windows 11, with practical examples and actionable advice suited for intermediate users.
Why Is Secure Browsing Important in Windows 11?
The internet is a gateway for threats like phishing, malware, and data leaks. Windows 11 offers robust security features, but you must configure them correctly and develop smart browsing habits to keep your data and privacy protected.
How Can You Harden Browser Privacy Settings?
1. Update Your Browser Regularly
Outdated browsers are vulnerable to exploits. Whether you use Microsoft Edge, Chrome, or Firefox, updates contain critical security patches.
– For Microsoft Edge:
a. Open Edge
b. Click the three dots (top right)
c. Go to Help and feedback > About Microsoft Edge
d. Edge will check for updates and install them
2. Adjust Privacy Settings in Edge
a. Open Edge and go to Settings
b. Select Privacy, search, and services
c. Under Tracking prevention, choose ‘Strict’
d. Scroll down to Security
e. Enable ‘Microsoft Defender SmartScreen’ for phishing protection
3. Disable Third-Party Cookies
a. In Edge Settings, select Cookies and site permissions
b. Click Manage and delete cookies and site data
c. Enable ‘Block third-party cookies’
These steps limit trackers and help prevent malicious sites from collecting your data.
What Are the Best Practices for Safe Web Browsing on Windows 11?
1. Use a Secure DNS Provider
Switching to a reputable DNS (Domain Name System) can block access to malicious domains.
– Go to Settings > Network & internet > Ethernet/Wi-Fi
– Click Hardware properties
– Under DNS server assignment, click Edit
– Set to Manual and enter DNS addresses (example: 1.1.1.1 for Cloudflare or 8.8.8.8 for Google DNS)
2. Avoid Suspicious Links and Downloads
Do not click on links or download files from unknown or untrusted sources, especially in emails or pop-ups.
3. Enable Enhanced Security Features
Windows 11 offers Exploit Protection, Memory Integrity, and more.
– Search for Windows Security and open the app
– Go to App & browser control
– Enable Reputation-based protection
– Turn on all available features, including Phishing protection
How Do You Use Glary Utilities to Enhance Browsing Privacy?
Glary Utilities offers tools to clean browsing traces and manage privacy. Here’s how:
1. Download and Install Glary Utilities
Visit the official Glary Utilities website and install the program.
2. Run the Tracks Eraser
a. Launch Glary Utilities
b. Click on the ‘Privacy & Security’ tab
c. Select ‘Tracks Eraser’
d. Check your browsers (Edge, Chrome, Firefox, etc.)
e. Click ‘Erase Now’ to remove browsing history, cookies, and cache
This step ensures that sensitive browsing data is not left behind on your system.
3. Schedule Automatic Cleaning
a. In Glary Utilities, go to ‘Schedule Tasks’
b. Set Tracks Eraser to run daily or weekly
c. This keeps your browser traces minimal without manual effort
How Can You Use Windows Security Tools for Safer Browsing?
1. Turn On Controlled Folder Access
Protect your documents and downloads from ransomware.
– Open Windows Security
– Click Virus & threat protection
– Select Manage ransomware protection
– Enable Controlled folder access
– Add common folders like Documents and Downloads
2. Check for Malware Regularly
a. Open Windows Security
b. Go to Virus & threat protection
c. Click Quick scan or Full scan
How Do You Secure Saved Passwords and Autofill Data?
Never save passwords in your browser unless you use a master password or a trusted password manager.
– In Edge Settings, select Profiles > Passwords
– Disable ‘Offer to save passwords’
– Use a dedicated password manager with strong encryption for better security
How Can You Use Guest or Limited User Accounts for Safer Browsing?
Avoid using an account with administrative privileges for everyday browsing.
1. Create a Standard User Account
– Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users
– Add account > Add a user without a Microsoft account
– Set permissions as ‘Standard user’
2. Log In with this account for general browsing
This limits potential system-wide damage if malware is encountered.
Should You Use VPNs and HTTPS?
1. Always Use HTTPS
Modern browsers show a padlock icon for secure sites. Avoid entering credentials on sites without HTTPS.
2. Consider a VPN
A reputable VPN encrypts your internet traffic, guarding against eavesdropping, especially on public Wi-Fi networks.
What Extra Steps Can You Take for Advanced Protection?
– Use browser extensions like uBlock Origin or Privacy Badger to block ads and trackers
– Regularly review browser extensions and remove unnecessary ones
– Enable two-factor authentication for important accounts
Recap: Your Secure Browsing Checklist
– Update your browser and Windows regularly
– Harden browser privacy settings and disable third-party cookies
– Use secure DNS and avoid suspicious websites
– Leverage Glary Utilities to erase browsing traces and schedule privacy cleanups
– Use Windows Security tools for real-time protection
– Store passwords securely and use standard user accounts for browsing
– Prefer HTTPS and consider a VPN when necessary
By following these actionable steps, you can significantly improve your online privacy and security while browsing on Windows 11. Remember, a combination of good habits and the right tools like Glary Utilities forms your best defense against evolving threats.