Securing your Windows computer is not a one-time task—it’s an ongoing process that needs attention at critical moments. Whether you’re setting up a new device, installing major updates, or noticing suspicious activity, configuring Windows security settings is essential to protect your privacy and data. In this article, you’ll discover when and how to secure your system, with step-by-step instructions tailored for both beginners and advanced users. Let’s dive in.
Why Is Configuring Windows Security Settings Important?
Windows is the primary target for malware and cyberattacks due to its wide usage. Properly configured security settings can:
– Shield sensitive data from prying eyes
– Prevent unauthorized access
– Reduce the risk of malware infections
– Help you maintain control over your privacy
When Should You Review and Secure Windows Security Settings?
There are several scenarios where reviewing your security settings is crucial:
1. Right After Setting Up a New Device
2. After Installing Major Windows Updates
3. When You Notice Unusual Activity
4. Before Storing Sensitive Information
5. Periodically, as Part of Regular Maintenance
Let’s look at each situation with practical steps.
Section for Beginners: Step-by-Step Security Configuration
1. After Setting Up a New Device
The first time you power on your computer, take these steps:
– Set a strong password or PIN: Go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options and create a complex password or PIN.
– Enable Windows Security: Open Windows Security from the Start menu and ensure Real-time protection is on under Virus & threat protection.
– Turn on Firewall: In Windows Security, go to Firewall & network protection and verify all network types (Domain, Private, Public) have firewalls enabled.
– Check Updates: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and install all available updates.
2. After Major Updates or Upgrades
Windows updates can reset some settings. After a big update:
– Review privacy options: Go to Settings > Privacy and check permissions for location, camera, microphone, account info, and other categories. Disable access for apps you don’t trust.
– Check app permissions: Under Settings > Apps > Apps & features, review and remove unfamiliar or unnecessary programs.
3. When You Notice Unusual Activity
Strange pop-ups, slowdowns, or unknown software could suggest a security issue.
– Run a Full Virus Scan: In Windows Security, select Virus & threat protection > Scan options > Full scan.
– Reset network settings: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Status > Network reset.
– Change your passwords: Immediately update your Windows password and other important credentials.
4. Before Storing Sensitive Data
If you plan to store financial, business, or sensitive personal data:
– Enable BitLocker (Windows Pro and above): Search for BitLocker in the Start menu and turn it on to encrypt your drive.
– Turn on controlled folder access: In Windows Security, select Virus & threat protection > Manage ransomware protection > Controlled folder access.
5. Periodic Maintenance
At least once a month:
– Check for updates and install them.
– Review device security in Windows Security.
– Update your password if prompted.
For Added Protection: Use Glary Utilities
Glary Utilities is a comprehensive tool that helps keep your system secure and private. For beginners, use its 1-Click Maintenance to clean up privacy traces, remove obsolete files, and fix registry issues that could threaten your security. It also features privacy protection tools that help securely erase sensitive files and manage startup programs, reducing the risk of hidden malware.
Section for Advanced Users: Customizing and Auditing Security
1. Configure Advanced Firewall Rules
– Open Windows Defender Firewall with Advanced Security from the Start menu.
– Create inbound and outbound rules to restrict unnecessary connections.
– Audit and disable services you don’t need by running services.msc.
2. Harden User Account Control (UAC)
– Go to Control Panel > User Accounts > Change User Account Control settings.
– Set the slider to “Always notify” for maximum protection.
3. Enable Secure Boot and TPM (if supported)
– Restart your computer and enter BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing F2, F10, or DEL during boot).
– Find Secure Boot and TPM options and enable them for hardware-level security.
4. Use Group Policy for Fine-Tuning
– Press Windows Key + R, type gpedit.msc, and explore Computer Configuration > Windows Settings > Security Settings.
– Set password policies, configure audit logs, and restrict access as needed.
5. Regular Security Audits
– Review Event Viewer logs for unauthorized access (Event Viewer > Windows Logs > Security).
– Use Windows PowerShell scripts to scan for open ports or non-standard processes.
Leverage Glary Utilities for Advanced Privacy
For advanced users, Glary Utilities provides a Tracks Eraser, which can securely wipe browser history, cache, and cookies from multiple browsers simultaneously. Its Startup Manager allows granular control over background processes, and the File Shredder ensures sensitive files are unrecoverable. It also features a Software Update checker for timely patching of vulnerabilities in third-party applications.
Conclusion: Make Security a Habit
Configuring and regularly reviewing your Windows security settings is essential—especially during device setup, after updates, before storing sensitive data, or when you suspect a problem. Both Windows’ built-in tools and third-party solutions like Glary Utilities work together to maintain strong privacy and security. Making these steps a regular habit ensures your digital life stays protected, no matter what comes your way.