Windows 11 introduces several improvements in security and privacy, making it more robust than previous versions. However, maximizing protection and maintaining personal privacy often requires additional steps. This article provides a practical, step-by-step guide to the most effective methods for enhancing security and privacy on Windows 11. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, you’ll find actionable advice for keeping your PC secure.
Why Should You Enhance Security and Privacy on Windows 11?
Windows 11 is designed with security in mind, but cyber threats continually evolve. Personal data can be exposed through apps, network vulnerabilities, or misconfigured settings. By actively managing your privacy and security, you reduce your risk of malware, unauthorized access, and data collection.
Privacy and Security Enhancements for Beginners
Enable Windows Security Features
1. Use Windows Security (formerly Windows Defender)
– Click Start, then Settings.
– Choose Privacy & security, then Windows Security.
– Click “Open Windows Security.”
– Make sure Virus & threat protection, Firewall & network protection, and App & browser control are all enabled.
– Run a quick scan to check for threats.
2. Turn on BitLocker Device Encryption
– Open Settings and go to Privacy & security > Device encryption.
– If available, toggle Device encryption to On.
– This protects your data if your device is lost or stolen.
3. Set Up Windows Hello
– Go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
– Set up a PIN, fingerprint, or facial recognition.
– This adds a secure, convenient way to access your device.
4. Use Strong Passwords and Two-Factor Authentication
– Change your Microsoft account password regularly.
– Set up two-factor authentication at https://account.microsoft.com/security.
– This reduces the chance of unauthorized account access.
Manage App Permissions
1. Open Settings > Privacy & security > App permissions.
2. Review and adjust permissions for location, camera, microphone, and other sensitive features.
3. Disable access for apps that do not need it.
Control Diagnostic and Telemetry Data
1. Go to Settings > Privacy & security > Diagnostics & feedback.
2. Set Send optional diagnostic data to Off.
3. Turn off tailored experiences and inking & typing personalization for extra privacy.
Use Glary Utilities for Easy Privacy Cleanup
Glary Utilities is an all-in-one optimization tool that also focuses on privacy. Beginners can benefit from its 1-Click Maintenance feature:
1. Download and install Glary Utilities from the official site.
2. Open the program and select 1-Click Maintenance.
3. Check the boxes for Privacy Tracks Eraser and Spyware Remover.
4. Click Scan, then Repair Problems.
5. This quickly erases browsing history, cookies, and leftover traces, improving privacy.
Enhancements for Advanced Users
Configure Group Policies (Windows 11 Pro or higher)
1. Press Win + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.
2. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components.
3. Review settings under Windows Defender Antivirus, Windows Update, and Data Collection.
– For example, set “Allow Telemetry” to “Disabled” to further reduce data sent to Microsoft.
Harden Network Security
1. Change your DNS to a privacy-respecting provider:
– Open Settings > Network & Internet > Ethernet/Wi-Fi > Hardware properties.
– Click Edit under DNS server assignment.
– Enter addresses for Cloudflare (1.1.1.1, 1.0.0.1) or OpenDNS (208.67.222.222, 208.67.220.220).
2. Enable Windows Defender Firewall Advanced Settings:
– Open Windows Security > Firewall & network protection > Advanced settings.
– Create inbound and outbound rules to restrict network access for specific apps.
Regularly Update and Patch Windows
1. Open Settings > Windows Update.
2. Enable automatic updates.
3. Check for updates regularly, especially after major security events.
Use Glary Utilities for Deep Privacy and Security Tasks
Advanced users can leverage more specialized features of Glary Utilities:
1. Open Glary Utilities and go to the Advanced Tools tab.
2. Use Tracks Eraser to remove deeper traces from browsers and Windows activities.
3. Use File Shredder to securely delete sensitive files, making recovery impossible.
4. Use Disk Cleaner and Registry Cleaner to remove old data that could expose information.
Monitor and Control Startup Programs
1. Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc) and go to the Startup tab.
2. Disable unnecessary programs, especially those you do not recognize.
3. In Glary Utilities, go to the Startup Manager for even greater control and recommendations.
Real-World Example: Securing a Shared Family PC
Suppose you share a PC at home. By setting up separate user accounts (Settings > Accounts > Family & other users), enabling BitLocker, and restricting app permissions, each family member’s data stays private. Use Glary Utilities’ 1-Click Maintenance weekly to remove privacy traces and unwanted files left by different users.
Regular Maintenance for Ongoing Security
– Schedule weekly scans with Windows Security and Glary Utilities.
– Routinely check the Privacy & security settings for new features after updates.
– Educate all users about recognizing phishing attacks and avoiding suspicious downloads.
Conclusion
Windows 11 provides a solid foundation for privacy and security, but taking extra steps is essential. By following the methods above, both beginners and advanced users can significantly improve their defense against threats and enhance privacy. Glary Utilities offers practical tools that simplify many privacy and maintenance tasks, making it a valuable addition to your security routine. Regular attention to these enhancements ensures your Windows 11 experience stays safe and private.