Protecting your privacy and keeping your Windows 10 or 11 computer secure has never been more critical. With each update, Microsoft introduces new security features, but users must take a proactive role to maximize protection. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced user, this guide offers professional yet practical steps to enhance both security and privacy on your Windows PC.
Why Should You Care About Privacy and Security?
Every day, your computer collects data about your activity—websites you visit, files you open, your location, and even your voice (if you use voice assistants like Cortana). While some of this information improves user experience, it can also be misused by third parties or exposed due to malware. Security lapses can lead to identity theft, data loss, and unauthorized access to your personal files.
How Can You Safeguard Your Windows PC from Threats?
1. Keep Windows Updated
One of the easiest ways to stay secure is to ensure Windows is up to date. Microsoft regularly releases security updates to fix vulnerabilities.
– Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
– Click “Check for updates.” Install any available updates immediately.
2. Use Strong, Unique Passwords and Enable Windows Hello
Passwords remain one of the primary defenses against unauthorized access.
– Create passwords with a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters.
– Enable Windows Hello (face, fingerprint, or PIN) for faster and more secure logins.
– Use a password manager to generate and store complex passwords.
3. Activate Built-in Security Features
Windows Defender (now called Windows Security) offers robust, built-in protection.
– Open Windows Security from the Start menu.
– Turn on Real-time protection and Cloud-delivered protection.
– Under “Virus & threat protection,” run a full scan regularly.
4. Enable Firewall Protection
Windows Firewall helps block unauthorized access.
– Go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.
– Ensure it’s turned on for both private and public networks.
How Do You Protect Your Privacy on Windows 10 & 11?
1. Limit Diagnostic Data Collection
By default, Windows collects diagnostic data. You can minimize this:
– Go to Settings > Privacy > Diagnostics & feedback.
– Select “Required diagnostic data” instead of “Optional.”
2. Control App Permissions
Review which apps can access your camera, microphone, location, and contacts.
– Go to Settings > Privacy.
– Click each category and turn off permissions for apps you don’t trust or use.
3. Manage Activity History and Cortana
Windows tracks activities and sends them to Microsoft by default.
– Go to Settings > Privacy > Activity history.
– Uncheck “Send my activity history to Microsoft.”
– Turn off Cortana if you don’t use it, as it collects voice and search data.
4. Opt Out of Tailored Ads
Prevent apps from using your advertising ID.
– Go to Settings > Privacy > General.
– Turn off “Let apps use advertising ID to make ads more interesting to you.”
How Can Glary Utilities Help with Privacy and Security?
Glary Utilities is a comprehensive suite designed for PC cleaning, privacy protection, and performance optimization. It’s ideal for users of any experience level.
1. Privacy Cleaner
Glary Utilities’ Privacy Cleaner scans and removes traces of your online and offline activities—browser history, cookies, recently opened files, and more. This significantly reduces your exposure to prying eyes or unwanted data collection.
2. Tracks Eraser
Erase tracks left by applications and Windows system processes, ensuring sensitive information (like recently used documents or search queries) isn’t left behind.
3. Secure File Deletion
When you delete sensitive files, they can often be recovered. Glary Utilities offers a File Shredder tool that permanently deletes files using advanced algorithms, making recovery virtually impossible.
4. One-Click Maintenance
Run the One-Click Maintenance tool regularly to clear privacy risks, fix registry errors, and optimize your system. This is particularly useful for users who want an easy, automated way to maintain a secure and smooth-running PC.
5. Startup Manager
Review and manage programs that launch at startup. Disabling unnecessary applications reduces your attack surface and keeps your system running efficiently.
Real World Example:
Maria, a freelance graphic designer, noticed her PC was slowing down and sometimes displayed targeted ads related to her recent projects. By using Glary Utilities’ Privacy Cleaner and managing her Windows privacy settings, she not only sped up her computer but also reduced intrusive tracking.
What Are Some Extra Tips for All Users?
– Regularly back up your important data to an external drive or a secure cloud service.
– Be cautious of suspicious emails and links, as phishing remains a common attack method.
– Use reputable antivirus software in addition to Windows Defender for layered protection.
– Periodically review installed programs and uninstall those you no longer need.
– Educate family members or colleagues about safe browsing and data privacy.
Conclusion
Optimizing security and privacy on Windows 10 and 11 doesn’t have to be complicated. By taking advantage of built-in settings and powerful tools like Glary Utilities, you can protect your sensitive information and enjoy a safer, more private computing experience. Make these steps part of your regular PC maintenance, and you’ll significantly reduce your risk of cyber threats and data breaches.