Windows 10 and Windows 11 are widely used worldwide, but their popularity also makes them attractive targets for cyber threats and privacy breaches. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned Windows user, keeping your system secure and private is critical. Below are proven security and privacy enhancement methods that work best for all users, along with practical steps and real-world examples.
Why Do You Need to Enhance Windows Security and Privacy?
Windows comes with built-in security features, but as cyber threats evolve and privacy concerns grow, it’s essential to go further. Many attacks exploit default settings, outdated software, or weak privacy controls. By being proactive, you not only safeguard your data but also ensure smoother system performance and peace of mind.
What Built-in Windows Security Features Should You Activate?
Windows Defender Antivirus and Firewall: Both Windows 10 and 11 come with Microsoft Defender Antivirus and Firewall enabled by default. Make sure they remain active.
– Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security > Virus & Threat Protection.
– Confirm that real-time protection is on.
– Check Firewall settings under Firewall & Network Protection.
BitLocker Drive Encryption: Encrypt your drive to protect data from unauthorized access, particularly if you use a laptop.
– Open Control Panel > System and Security > BitLocker Drive Encryption.
– Turn on BitLocker for your system drive and follow the prompts.
Windows Hello: Replace passwords with biometrics (face, fingerprint) or a secure PIN.
– Go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in Options.
– Set up Windows Hello for faster, safer logins.
How Can You Strengthen Privacy Settings in Windows?
Review App Permissions: Many apps request access to your camera, microphone, contacts, or location unnecessarily.
– Go to Settings > Privacy.
– Review each category and disable permissions for apps that don’t need them.
Limit Diagnostic Data: Windows can send diagnostic data to Microsoft. You can reduce the amount shared.
– Go to Settings > Privacy > Diagnostics & Feedback.
– Set Diagnostic data to “Required only.”
– Turn off tailored experiences and feedback requests.
Disable Advertising ID: Prevent apps from tracking you for targeted advertising.
– Settings > Privacy > General.
– Toggle off “Let apps use advertising ID.”
What Third-Party Tools Enhance Security and Privacy Further?
A trusted system utility like Glary Utilities can greatly enhance your system’s privacy and security. Here’s how:
Glary Utilities Privacy Cleaner:
– Removes browsing traces, temporary files, clipboard history, and recent documents.
– Open Glary Utilities.
– Go to the “Privacy & Security” tab.
– Click “Tracks Eraser,” select items to clean, and run the cleaner.
This reduces the risk of someone recovering your private data from your device.
Glary Utilities Startup Manager:
– Disable unnecessary startup programs that may include spyware or unwanted software.
– In Glary Utilities, select “Startup Manager.”
– Review and disable suspicious or unnecessary entries.
Glary Utilities File Shredder:
– Permanently delete sensitive files so they cannot be recovered.
– Go to “Privacy & Security” > “File Shredder,” add files, and shred them securely.
How Should You Keep Windows and Software Up-to-date?
Outdated operating systems and applications are common sources of vulnerabilities.
Automate Windows Updates:
– Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
– Ensure updates are set to install automatically.
Update Third-Party Software:
– Use Glary Utilities’ Software Update feature to scan for outdated applications and update them with a click.
– Open Glary Utilities > “Advanced Tools” > “Software Update.”
What Are the Best Practices for Password Security?
Use Strong, Unique Passwords:
– Avoid reusing passwords between accounts.
– Combine uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):
– Where available, always enable 2FA for your accounts and services.
Password Managers:
– Consider reputable password managers to generate and store complex passwords securely.
How Can You Protect Yourself from Phishing and Malicious Software?
Be cautious with email attachments and links, especially from unknown senders.
– If in doubt, don’t click.
– Use Microsoft Defender’s SmartScreen Filter, which is built into Microsoft Edge, to block malicious websites.
Regularly Scan for Malware:
– Run full antivirus scans at least weekly.
– Use Glary Utilities’ “Malware Remover” feature to perform an additional scan for threats sometimes missed by built-in tools.
What About Backups for Security and Recovery?
Ransomware and hardware failures can result in data loss. Regular backups are essential.
Set Up File History:
– Go to Settings > Update & Security > Backup > Add a drive.
– Select an external drive to back up your files regularly.
Consider Cloud Backups:
– Services like OneDrive (integrated with Windows) offer automated cloud backup.
How Do You Handle User Accounts and Permissions Safely?
Use Standard Accounts for Daily Tasks:
– Only use Administrator accounts when necessary.
– Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users, and create a standard user for daily use.
Review Account Permissions:
– Remove old or unnecessary user accounts from the system.
Final Thoughts
Enhancing Windows security and privacy doesn’t require advanced skills—just the right approach and tools. Start by configuring built-in features, strengthening privacy settings, and keeping your system updated. Leverage comprehensive utilities like Glary Utilities to automate cleanup, remove traces, and patch vulnerabilities. By following these actionable methods, you can significantly improve your privacy and security on Windows 10 and 11, regardless of your experience level.