Windows 11 brings a range of robust privacy and security features, but even with these improvements, many users unknowingly make mistakes that can leave their data vulnerable. Securing your Windows device requires more than just built-in protections; it demands active, informed management of settings and habits. Below are the top 10 ways to enhance security and privacy in Windows 11, along with common pitfalls to avoid. This guide offers tailored advice for both beginners and advanced users to help you maximize your PC’s defenses.
1. Are You Using Strong Authentication Methods?
Beginner Advice:
Many users stick with simple passwords or, worse, reuse them across accounts. In Windows 11, always set a strong, unique password for your device. Go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options and enable Windows Hello—choose PIN, fingerprint, or facial recognition for an added layer of protection.
Real-World Example:
A short, predictable password like “password123” is easily cracked. Instead, use a passphrase or Windows Hello for biometric logins.
Advanced Tips:
Consider enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) on your Microsoft account and any other important accounts. Use password managers for complex password generation and storage.
2. Have You Configured Windows Security Settings Correctly?
Beginner Advice:
Windows Security (formerly Windows Defender) is effective but only when active and up-to-date. Open Windows Security from the Start Menu and ensure Real-time protection, Firewall, and Virus & Threat Protection are enabled.
Common Mistake:
Turning off Windows Security for convenience, for example, to install unsigned software, leaves your PC at risk.
Advanced Tips:
Regularly schedule full system scans and review Protection History for suspicious activity. Advanced users can adjust Controlled Folder Access to further guard against ransomware attacks.
3. Are Your System and Applications Up to Date?
Beginner Advice:
Failing to apply updates is a major vulnerability. Windows 11 streamlines updates, but users sometimes pause updates indefinitely. Go to Settings > Windows Update and check for updates regularly.
Common Mistake:
Ignoring update notifications or postponing updates for long periods.
Advanced Tips:
Enable automatic updates for Microsoft Store apps and set up reminders to update third-party applications, especially browsers and productivity tools.
4. Do You Monitor and Limit App Permissions?
Beginner Advice:
Many apps request unnecessary permissions (location, camera, microphone). Visit Settings > Privacy & security > App permissions and disable access for apps that don’t need it.
Real-World Example:
A weather app shouldn’t access your microphone. Turn off microphone access for such apps.
Advanced Tips:
Use “App Diagnostics” and “Background apps” settings to further restrict what apps can access and run in the background.
5. Are You Using Secure Network Settings?
Beginner Advice:
Always connect to trusted Wi-Fi networks and avoid public Wi-Fi without protection. Enable Windows Firewall at all times via Control Panel > Windows Defender Firewall.
Common Mistake:
Disabling the firewall for troubleshooting and forgetting to re-enable it.
Advanced Tips:
Set your network profile to “Private” when at home and “Public” elsewhere for stricter sharing and discovery settings. Use a VPN for added privacy, especially on unsecured networks.
6. Do You Regularly Clean and Audit Your System?
Beginner Advice:
Unused files, apps, and browser cookies can compromise privacy. Use built-in Disk Cleanup or a comprehensive tool like Glary Utilities, which automates privacy cleaning, removes junk files, and manages startup programs for improved security.
Glary Utilities Benefits:
– 1-Click Maintenance cleans privacy traces, temporary files, and browser histories.
– Startup Manager helps reduce the risk of malicious programs launching at startup.
Advanced Tips:
Schedule regular deep cleans with Glary Utilities and use its Tracks Eraser and File Shredder tools for thoroughly removing sensitive data.
7. Are You Managing Account Access Properly?
Beginner Advice:
Each user on your PC should have a separate account. Do not share your administrator account. Set up standard accounts for family members or guests in Settings > Accounts > Family & other users.
Common Mistake:
Letting everyone use the administrator account, increasing the risk of accidental or malicious changes.
Advanced Tips:
Enable account auditing and review Windows Event Viewer logs to track login attempts and account activities.
8. Do You Use Device Encryption?
Beginner Advice:
Device encryption protects your files if your PC is lost or stolen. Check if BitLocker (Pro edition) or Device Encryption (Home edition) is enabled: Settings > Privacy & security > Device encryption.
Real-World Example:
A lost laptop is less likely to leak data if full disk encryption is enabled.
Advanced Tips:
Configure BitLocker with TPM and PIN for maximum protection. Use encryption for external drives and USBs as well.
9. Are You Careful With External Devices and Downloads?
Beginner Advice:
Always scan USB drives or downloaded files with Windows Security before opening. Don’t download software from untrusted websites.
Common Mistake:
Disabling antivirus to install software from questionable sources.
Advanced Tips:
Use Glary Utilities’ Malware Remover to scan for threats not caught by standard antivirus solutions. Enable SmartScreen Filter in Edge for added browser protection.
10. Do You Backup Important Data Regularly?
Beginner Advice:
Use Windows’ built-in backup tools (Settings > System > Storage > Advanced backup options) or OneDrive for cloud backups.
Common Mistake:
Failing to back up files, leaving you vulnerable to ransomware or hardware failure.
Advanced Tips:
Set up automated backup schedules and test restores to ensure your backups work. Use Glary Utilities to clean up old backup files and keep storage optimized.
For Beginners: Where Should You Start?
– Set a strong password or enable Windows Hello.
– Keep Windows Update and Security features enabled.
– Review privacy permissions for installed apps.
– Clean junk files regularly with Glary Utilities’ 1-Click Maintenance.
For Advanced Users: How Can You Go Further?
– Set up BitLocker with TPM.
– Audit account and network activity logs.
– Use advanced privacy tools in Glary Utilities like Tracks Eraser and File Shredder.
– Implement VPNs and two-factor authentication wherever possible.
Conclusion
Avoiding common mistakes and following these actionable steps will significantly improve your Windows 11 security and privacy posture. Tools like Glary Utilities can further automate and simplify many of these tasks, making it easier for both beginners and advanced users to stay protected. Remember, security is an ongoing process—regularly review your settings and habits to keep your system safe.