Configuring security settings on Windows 10 is essential to protect your data, privacy, and system stability. With threats evolving every day, relying on default configurations is not enough. Intermediate Windows users can significantly strengthen their system’s security by fine-tuning built-in features, using third-party tools, and following best practices. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for optimizing Windows 10 security settings, with practical examples for real-world scenarios.
Why Should You Customize Windows 10 Security Settings?
Out-of-the-box Windows 10 security is decent, but customizing settings tailors protection to your needs, blocks unwanted access, and helps prevent malware, ransomware, and unauthorized data collection. By proactively configuring security, you avoid being an easy target and minimize the impact of potential threats.
Which Built-in Windows 10 Security Features Should You Configure First?
Windows 10 includes several security features that can be enhanced for better protection.
1. Windows Security (Windows Defender)
Windows Security offers antivirus, firewall, and other protective features. Here’s how to ensure it’s configured for maximum protection:
Open Windows Security by clicking Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security > Open Windows Security.
a) Virus & Threat Protection
– Click on “Virus & threat protection settings.”
– Make sure “Real-time protection” is ON.
– Enable “Cloud-delivered protection” for faster threat detection.
– Turn on “Automatic sample submission” to help Microsoft analyze suspicious files quickly.
b) Firewall & Network Protection
– Click “Firewall & network protection.”
– Ensure all network profiles (Domain, Private, Public) have the firewall turned ON.
– Click “Allow an app through firewall” and review the list. Remove permissions for unnecessary apps.
c) App & Browser Control
– Set “Reputation-based protection” to ON to block unwanted apps and downloads.
– Under “Exploit protection,” click “Exploit protection settings” and accept the recommended defaults or customize as needed for advanced scenarios.
2. User Account Control (UAC)
UAC prevents unauthorized changes. To adjust:
Go to Control Panel > User Accounts > Change User Account Control settings.
– Set the slider to “Always notify” for maximum security when apps attempt changes.
3. Account Passwords and Login Options
Strong authentication reduces the risk of unauthorized access.
– Open Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options.
– Use a strong password or, if available, enable Windows Hello for PIN, facial recognition, or fingerprint sign-in.
– Set “Require sign-in” to “When PC wakes up from sleep.”
4. BitLocker Drive Encryption
Encrypting your drives protects your data if your device is lost or stolen.
– Open Control Panel > System and Security > BitLocker Drive Encryption.
– Turn on BitLocker for all internal drives, following the on-screen setup for your desired authentication method (password, PIN, or USB key).
5. Privacy Settings
Limit data collection and protect your identity.
– Go to Settings > Privacy.
– Review and disable unnecessary permissions (Location, Camera, Microphone, Contacts, etc.).
– Under “Diagnostics & feedback,” set data collection to “Basic.”
– Turn off “Tailored experiences” and “Let apps use advertising ID.”
How Can You Use Glary Utilities to Enhance Windows 10 Privacy & Security?
While Windows offers robust options, a tool like Glary Utilities can help streamline privacy and security optimization. Glary Utilities provides a user-friendly dashboard for deeper cleaning and privacy control:
– Download and install Glary Utilities from the official website.
– Open Glary Utilities and select the “1-Click Maintenance” tab.
– Ensure options like “Tracks Eraser,” “Spyware Remover,” and “Registry Cleaner” are checked, then click “Scan for Issues.”
This process cleans browser history, removes usage traces, and checks for spyware.
– In the “Privacy & Security” section, use “Tracks Eraser” to clear traces from browsers and Windows activities.
– Use “File Shredder” to securely delete sensitive files so they cannot be recovered.
– Regularly schedule scans to keep your system clean and private.
What Else Can You Do to Harden Your Windows 10 Security?
Enable Controlled Folder Access
Windows Defender’s Controlled Folder Access protects critical files against ransomware:
– Open Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Manage ransomware protection.
– Turn on Controlled folder access and add folders you want to protect.
Review Installed Programs
Remove unused or suspicious software to reduce the attack surface:
– Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
– Uninstall apps you don’t recognize or no longer need.
Keep Windows Updated
Updates patch vulnerabilities:
– Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
– Click “Check for updates” and install all pending updates.
Manage Network Sharing
Limit file/printer sharing to trusted networks only:
– Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > Change advanced sharing settings.
– Turn off public folder sharing and network discovery on public networks.
Configure Backup and Restore
Prepare for disaster recovery:
– Go to Settings > Update & Security > Backup.
– Set up “Backup using File History” or connect a OneDrive account for cloud backups.
Conclusion
The most effective Windows 10 security configuration method combines built-in settings adjustments with powerful utilities like Glary Utilities for privacy reinforcement and maintenance. By systematically working through these steps—configuring Windows Security, enabling BitLocker, tightening privacy controls, leveraging Glary Utilities for deep cleaning, and maintaining good update and backup habits—you can keep your system secure against current threats. Regular reviews and updates of these settings ensure your PC remains protected as new vulnerabilities emerge.