Windows 10 and 11 have become increasingly sophisticated in their security capabilities, but simply relying on out-of-the-box defaults is rarely enough. Intermediate users who want both enhanced privacy and robust protection need a tailored security configuration. If you’re ready to go beyond basics, this guide explains which Windows security settings work best, along with step-by-step instructions and real-world examples.
Why Go Beyond Default Security Settings?
While Microsoft provides solid defaults to protect against basic threats, cyberattacks and privacy invasions have evolved. Customizing your security settings ensures:
– Less exposure to data collection and telemetry
– Stronger defense against malware, ransomware, and phishing
– Greater control over app and network permissions
Which Security Settings Should You Prioritize?
Key areas to focus on include account security, system updates, privacy controls, app permissions, network configuration, and system cleanup. Here’s how to optimize each one.
How Should You Secure User Accounts and Logins?
1. Use Strong Passwords and Enable Windows Hello
– Set a long, complex password for your Microsoft account and local admin accounts.
– Activate Windows Hello using facial recognition or a PIN for enhanced security and convenience.
– Go to Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options to configure these features.
2. Activate Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
– Enable 2FA for your Microsoft account at https://account.microsoft.com.
– This protects your account even if your password is compromised.
What’s the Best Way to Manage Windows Updates?
1. Keep Your System Updated
– Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
– Enable automatic updates, but consider setting “Active Hours” to avoid disruption.
– Regular updates patch known vulnerabilities quickly.
2. Pause and Review Updates (If Needed)
– Intermediate users may want to delay feature updates for a week to ensure stability.
– Use Advanced Options within Windows Update to pause updates when needed.
How Can You Maximize Privacy Settings?
1. Review Data Collection Settings
– Navigate to Settings > Privacy & security > Diagnostics & feedback.
– Set Diagnostic data to “Required only”.
– Turn off tailored experiences and feedback requests.
2. Adjust App Permissions
– Under Settings > Privacy & security, check app permissions for Camera, Microphone, Location, and others.
– Disable access for apps that don’t require them. For example, turn off location access for desktop apps unless absolutely necessary.
What About Network and Firewall Protection?
1. Configure Windows Defender Firewall
– Go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.
– Ensure the firewall is enabled for both private and public networks.
– Use “Allow an app through firewall” to manage exceptions—only allow trusted programs.
2. Set Up Network Profiles Correctly
– Switch your Wi-Fi network to “Private” for home networks and “Public” for airports or cafes.
– This limits discoverability and file/printer sharing exposure.
3. Turn on Network Protection
– In Windows Security > App & browser control > Reputation-based protection, turn on “Network protection” to block connections to dangerous domains.
How Do You Reduce Attack Surface with App & Browser Controls?
1. Enable SmartScreen
– In Windows Security > App & browser control, ensure “Check apps and files” and “SmartScreen for Microsoft Edge” are enabled.
– This helps block malicious websites and downloads.
2. Restrict App Installation
– In Settings > Apps > Advanced app settings, use “Choose where to get apps” to allow apps only from the Microsoft Store if feasible.
What Role Does System Cleanup and Maintenance Play?
1. Regularly Remove Old and Unnecessary Files
– Use built-in Disk Cleanup or Storage Sense for basic cleaning.
– For a comprehensive approach, run Glary Utilities. Its 1-Click Maintenance scans for privacy traces, obsolete files, broken shortcuts, and more. This not only frees up space but also wipes potential privacy risks left by browsers, messengers, and other software.
2. Uninstall Unused Apps
– Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
– Remove programs you no longer use to minimize attack vectors.
How Can Glary Utilities Help with Windows Security?
Glary Utilities is more than a cleanup tool. It provides:
– Privacy Cleaner: Erases traces from browsers, recent documents, and Windows logs.
– Startup Manager: Lets you disable suspicious or unnecessary startup programs.
– Software Updater: Identifies outdated applications with known vulnerabilities.
– File Shredder: Securely deletes sensitive files to prevent recovery.
Using Glary Utilities regularly ensures your system remains not just clean but less exposed to security risks caused by leftover files and unchecked software.
Should You Use Additional Security Tools?
While Windows Defender is highly effective, intermediate users may consider:
– A secondary malware scanner for occasional system checks (such as Malwarebytes).
– Secure DNS services for added phishing protection (such as Cloudflare or OpenDNS).
What’s a Practical Security Routine for Intermediate Users?
1. Review privacy and update settings every 2-4 months.
2. Run Glary Utilities’ 1-Click Maintenance weekly.
3. Scan for malware monthly, even if Defender is enabled.
4. Audit installed apps and startup entries quarterly.
5. Backup important files to an external drive or cloud service regularly.
Conclusion
Configuring Windows 10 and 11 for optimal privacy and security is a continual process—defaults alone aren’t enough. By actively managing account protections, updates, privacy settings, network configuration, and system cleanup (with tools like Glary Utilities), intermediate users can significantly reduce their risk of breaches and unwanted data exposure. Regularly review your settings and stay informed about new Windows security features to keep your system safe and private.